Patent ID: 8632098
Filing Date: 2014-01-21
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. An adjustable steering column assembly which includes a first shroud portion comprising an outer tube, a second shroud portion which comprises an inner tube, and a clamp assembly that includes a part that is fixed relative to the outer tube, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion being releasably engaged by a clamp assembly to selectively permit an amount of relative movement between the first and the second shroud portion that is required during adjustment of the steering column assembly, the steering column assembly further including an energy absorbing member which includes a strap that interconnects the inner tube and a part of the clamp assembly, the adjustable steering column assembly being so arranged that upon collapse the inner tube moves relative to the clamp assembly whereupon the energy absorbing member is deformed beyond its elastic limit, thereby absorbing energy in the assembly to control the collapse of the adjustable steering column-assembly and further in which the clamp assembly is fixed relative to the outer tube portion when the clamp assembly is both in a clamped condition and a released condition which prevents the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion from sliding apart should the clamp assembly be inadvertently moved to the released position.