Safety steering column, motor vehicle with a safety system and safety method
First Claim
1. In a safety steering system for a motor vehicle including a carriage coupled to a steering column for adjustment of the steering column in its axial direction and comfort positioning means for the steering column whereby the steering column can be set for driver operation in any selected axial position, the improvement comprising:
- a gas generator mounted on the carriage for generating a gas and a gas pressure for introduction into the steering column;
the steering column defining at least one opening communicating with the gas generator to enable generated gas pressure to be introduced into the steering column;
an igniter affixed to the gas generator and ignitable responsive to a vehicle crash; and
a mechanism mounted inside the steering column actuatable by introduced gas pressure for initiating release of the comfort positioning means enabling the steering column to move axially away from the driver in case of the vehicle crash.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A safety steering column which is adjustable in its axial direction whereby pyrotechnically driven steering column retraction is provided for a positioning of a safety steering column in its axial direction, to move it away from the driver in case of an accident. Furthermore, a safety system incorporating such a safety steering column and a motor vehicle so equipped that can distinguish between different drivers regarding weight, size and belted condition; the system providing alternative safety measures depending on the driver'"'"'s needs for protection.
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Citations
13 Claims
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1. In a safety steering system for a motor vehicle including a carriage coupled to a steering column for adjustment of the steering column in its axial direction and comfort positioning means for the steering column whereby the steering column can be set for driver operation in any selected axial position, the improvement comprising:
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a gas generator mounted on the carriage for generating a gas and a gas pressure for introduction into the steering column; the steering column defining at least one opening communicating with the gas generator to enable generated gas pressure to be introduced into the steering column; an igniter affixed to the gas generator and ignitable responsive to a vehicle crash; and a mechanism mounted inside the steering column actuatable by introduced gas pressure for initiating release of the comfort positioning means enabling the steering column to move axially away from the driver in case of the vehicle crash. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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Specification