US 11,999,409 B2
Electromagnetic brake mechanism for steering column energy absorption system
John F. Schulz, Hemlock, MI (US); Michael P. Anspaugh, Bay City, MI (US); and Randy W. Jones, North Branch, MI (US)
Assigned to Steering Solutions IP Holding Corporation, Saginaw, MI (US)
Filed by Steering Solutions IP Holding Corporation, Saginaw, MI (US)
Filed on Feb. 4, 2022, as Appl. No. 17/665,047.
Prior Publication US 2023/0249739 A1, Aug. 10, 2023
Int. Cl. B62D 1/18 (2006.01); B62D 1/181 (2006.01); B62D 1/19 (2006.01)
CPC B62D 1/197 (2013.01) [B62D 1/181 (2013.01); B62D 1/192 (2013.01)] 16 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. An energy absorption system for a vehicle steering column comprising:
a lower jacket;
an upper jacket operatively coupled to, and moveable relative to, the lower jacket;
a tooth rack operatively coupled to the upper jacket; and
an electromagnetic brake mechanism engageable with the tooth rack to exert a braking force on the tooth rack, wherein the electromagnetic brake mechanism comprises:
a stationary portion operatively coupled to a steering column structure;
a rotatable portion rotatable relative to the stationary portion;
a rod operatively coupled to the rotatable portion and rotatable therewith; and
a pinion directly coupled to the rod and rotatable therewith, the pinion having a plurality of pinion teeth directly engaged with a plurality of rack teeth formed on a surface of the tooth rack.