Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Hand operated
Reexamination Certificate
1999-04-08
2001-08-14
Bucci, David A. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Hand operated
C280S775000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06272945
ABSTRACT:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent applications Ser. No. 09/288,596 (file 98-1662), filed on Apr. 8, 1999, entitled “Tilt Release System for a Steering Column,” and Ser. No. 09/288,276 (file 98-1661), filed on Apr. 8, 1999 entitled “Tilt Release System for a Steering Column.”
This invention relates generally to a tilt release system for releasing the locking mechanism of a tilt steering column of an automotive vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A tilt steering column allows an operator of a vehicle to adjust the height and angle of the steering wheel depending on the operator's stature, seat position and comfort. Typically, the steering wheel can be moved to an uppermost position to allow the operator or driver to get in and out of the driver's seat more easily.
A locking mechanism is provided for retaining the steering column in adjusted position. The locking mechanism must be released to adjust the steering column. Typically the locking mechanism is located near the upper end of the steering column, adjacent to a lever actuator for releasing the locking mechanism. However, in this position, the locking mechanism, because of its considerable size and weight, creates problems of noise, vibration and harshness, as well as increasing the upward moment on the steering column during a crash.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, it is possible to relocate the locking mechanism to a position further down the steering column, without changing the position of the lever actuator. The lever actuator, in the interest of driver convenience, is typically positioned at the upper end of the steering column. A cable connects the lever actuator to the locking mechanism. Because of the use of a cable, the locking mechanism may be separated a significant distance from the lever actuator. The removal of the locking mechanism further down the steering column toward the instrument panel achieves reductions in noise, vibration and harshness and also improves the crash worthiness of the steering column by reducing the upward moment of the upper end thereof.
One object of this invention is to provide a tilt release system for the locking mechanism of a steering column having the foregoing features and capabilities.
Another object is to provide a tilt release system for a steering column which is of simple design and easy to operate.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent as the following description proceeds, especially when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.
REFERENCES:
patent: 3216521 (1965-11-01), Ulrich
patent: 3245282 (1966-04-01), Kimberlin
patent: 3267766 (1966-08-01), Glover et al.
patent: 3718053 (1973-02-01), Cinadr
patent: 3799569 (1974-03-01), Baker
patent: 4300407 (1981-11-01), Kopf
patent: 4392670 (1983-07-01), Schultz
patent: 4424721 (1984-01-01), Deacon
patent: 4470322 (1984-09-01), Beauch
patent: 4594909 (1986-06-01), Yamaguchi
patent: 4660673 (1987-04-01), Yoshii
patent: 4674769 (1987-06-01), Ota et al.
patent: 5452624 (1995-09-01), Thomas et al.
patent: 5802926 (1998-09-01), Thomas
patent: 5820163 (1998-10-01), Thacker et al.
patent: 5829311 (1998-11-01), Roberson
patent: 2 690 403 (1993-10-01), None
patent: 58-12865 (1983-01-01), None
Bucci David A.
Calcaterra Mark P.
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
Joyce William C
LandOfFree
Tilt release system for a steering column does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Tilt release system for a steering column, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Tilt release system for a steering column will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2524389