Patent ID: 6517114
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
A structural system for use within a vehicle, comprising:a) a steering column support for supporting a steering column and distributing a steering column load, said steering column support comprising a bracket portion and an extension portion; and b) a plurality of load distribution components for receiving said steering column load and distributing said steering column load to a vehicle structural frame, said bracket portion having a first surface and a second surface, said extension portion being mounted at a first end to said bracket portion and having a second end for mounting to at least one of said plurality of load distribution components, wherein the second surface includes a first protuberance integrally formed proximate to a first side edge, a second protuberance integrally formed proximate to a second side edge, and a third protuberance integrally formed therebetween and extending across said second surface from said first protuberance to said second protuberance, wherein the first, second, and third protuberances protrude from said second surface, and the first and second protuberances include mounting holes for mounting the steering column support within the vehicle, the second surface further including mountings formed thereon for fastening the steering column to the steering column support.