Mounting bracket assembly

Abstract

A mounting bracket assembly, a steering column assembly includes a shroud extending along an axis and including a pair of shroud mounting plates on opposite sides of the axis. The steering column assembly further includes a mounting bracket including a pair of mounting bracket plates spaced apart by a bridge, wherein each of the mounting bracket plates is operably connected to a shroud mounting plate. The steering column assembly further includes at least one of the mounting bracket plates including a mating aperture defined by a circular pivot portion and a slot extending outwardly from the pivot portion. The steering column assembly further includes at least one of the shroud mounting plates including a mating tab including at least one tab interfacing with opposite sides of the pivot portion. The slot is sized to allow the at least one tab to be inserted therein during assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following description relates to a mounting bracket, and more particularly, to a mounting bracket for a steering column having a torsion locking feature. Background Technology

[0002] The steering column in a vehicle can be adjustable in both tilt and telescopic directions. An adjustable steering column can be unlocked to be adjusted to a desired position. Once the desired position is reached, the steering column can be locked in place to resist movement from that position.

[0003] Traditional adjustable steering columns may comprise a pair of sleeves secured to the vehicle via mounting brackets. These sleeves are movable relative to the mounting brackets via a connection that allows for a specific amount of articulation. Typically, the mounting bracket is attached to one of these mounting brackets via the assembly of components requiring lubrication and a specific amount of maintenance. Specialized equipment is also required during assembly, leading to capital expenditure and increased cycle time. Therefore, to meet the low-cost demands of customers in the automotive market, there is a continuous search for simple, low-cost alternatives to current products. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a steering column assembly includes a sheath extending along an axis and including a pair of sheath mounting plates on opposite sides of the axis. The steering column assembly also includes a mounting bracket comprising a pair of mounting bracket plates spaced apart by a bridging member, wherein each of the mounting bracket plates is operatively connected to a sheath mounting plate. The steering column assembly further includes at least one mounting bracket plate comprising a mating aperture defined by a circular pivot portion and a slot extending outwardly from the pivot portion. The steering column assembly also includes at least one sheath mounting plate comprising a mating protrusion including at least one tab engaging with an interface on the opposite side of the pivot portion. The slot is sized to allow insertion of the at least one tab during assembly.

[0005] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the steering column assembly includes a sheath extending along an axis and including a pair of sheath mounting plates on opposite sides of the axis. The steering column assembly also includes a mounting bracket comprising a pair of mounting bracket plates spaced apart by bridging members, wherein each of the mounting bracket plates is operatively connected to a sheath mounting plate. The steering column assembly further includes at least one sheath mounting plate comprising a mating orifice defined by a circular pivot portion and a slot extending outwardly from the pivot portion. The steering column assembly also includes at least one mounting bracket plate comprising a mating protrusion and a cantilever, the mating protrusion including at least one tab extending inwardly to engage with an opposite side interface of the pivot portion, the cantilever extending from the at least one tab overhanging a surface of the sheath mounting plate surrounding the pivot portion. The slot is sized to allow insertion of the cantilever and the at least one tab during assembly.

[0006] The features and technical advantages of the invention have been outlined quite extensively above to provide a better understanding of the detailed description of the invention below. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described below, forming the subject matter of the claims. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed concepts and specific embodiments can be readily used as the basis for modifications or the design of other embodiments for achieving the same objectives of the invention. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that such equivalent embodiments do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. This section provides a general overview of the disclosure and should not be construed as a complete and comprehensive list of all objects, aspects, features, and advantages associated with the disclosure. These and other aspects of the disclosure are disclosed in the following detailed description of embodiments, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] This disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that, by convention, the various features in the drawings are not to scale unless expressly stated herein. Rather, for clarity, the dimensions of the various features have been arbitrarily enlarged or reduced.

[0008] Figure 1A The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to a first arrangement of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1B An enlarged view of the interface connection between the mounting bracket and the sheath according to the first arrangement is shown in general.

[0010] Figure 1C An enlarged external view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath according to the first arrangement is shown in general.

[0011] Figure 1DAn enlarged internal view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath according to the first arrangement is shown in general.

[0012] Figure 1E An enlarged lower view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath according to the first arrangement is shown in general.

[0013] Figure 1F An enlarged end view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath according to the first arrangement is shown in general.

[0014] Figure 1G The image shows an enlarged end view of the interface connection between the mounting bracket and the sheath in the disconnected state according to the first arrangement.

[0015] Figure 1H The image shows an enlarged lower view of the interface connection between the mounting bracket and the sheath in the connected state according to the first arrangement.

[0016] Figure 1I The assembly process of connecting the mounting bracket to the sheath according to the first arrangement is shown in general.

[0017] Figure 2A The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the second arrangement of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2B An enlarged end view of the interface connection portion of the mounting bracket according to the second arrangement is shown in general.

[0019] Figure 2C The assembly process of connecting the mounting bracket to the sheath according to the second arrangement is shown in general.

[0020] Figure 3 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the third arrangement of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 4 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the fourth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 5 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the fifth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 6 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the sixth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 7 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the seventh arrangement of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 8The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the eighth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 9 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the ninth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 10A The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the tenth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 10B The overall view shows an end view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath according to the tenth arrangement.

[0029] Figure 11A The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the eleventh arrangement of this disclosure.

[0030] Figure 11B The overall view shows a bottom view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath according to the eleventh arrangement.

[0031] Figure 12A The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the twelfth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 12B The interface connection portion of the sheath arranged according to the twelfth arrangement is shown in general.

[0033] Figure 12C An internal view of the mounting bracket connected to the sheath, arranged in the twelfth configuration, is shown in general.

[0034] Figure 13A The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the thirteenth arrangement of this disclosure.

[0035] Figure 13B The mounting bracket and sheath, arranged in the thirteenth position, are shown in general.

[0036] Figure 14 The mounting bracket connected to the sheath is shown in general according to the fourteenth arrangement of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The following discussion pertains to various embodiments of this disclosure. While one or more of these embodiments may be described in more detail than others, the disclosed embodiments should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure (including the claims). Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the following description has broad application, and the discussion of any embodiment is merely an example of that embodiment and is not intended to imply that the scope of this disclosure (including the claims) is limited to that embodiment.

[0038] As described above, a typical mounting bracket is attached to one of a pair of mounting brackets via assembly of components requiring lubrication and specific amounts of maintenance and specialized tools. Therefore, this disclosure relates to a mounting bracket and sheath connector including a mating orifice and a mating protrusion located within and at least partially pivoting within the mating orifice. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket may include a mating orifice and the sheath may include a mating protrusion. This eliminates the need for conventionally required additional assembly components and special equipment to connect the mounting bracket and sheath. While several arrangements are disclosed herein, it should be understood that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, an arrangement may include all the same features, constructions, interface properties, relative dimensions, and materials as described in other arrangements herein. It should also be understood that elements and features associated with the mounting bracket or sheath for connection may be integral with the associated mounting bracket or sheath (e.g., stamped or otherwise formed). Furthermore, it should be understood that the mating protrusion and mounting orifice described herein may be located on the sheath or mounting bracket without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0039] initial reference Figure 1A The steering column includes a mounting bracket 10 connected to a sleeve 12 according to a first arrangement. In some embodiments, the sleeve 12 may be a lower sleeve. The sleeve 12 extends along axis A and includes a pair of sleeve mounting plates 14 for connection to the mounting bracket 10. More specifically, the mounting bracket 10 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 16 spaced apart by a bridging member 18. The bridging member 18 may include one or more openings 19 for mounting to a vehicle using fasteners (not shown). The mounting bracket plates 16 may each include a first portion 20 projecting vertically from the bridging member 18 and a mounting portion 22 projecting laterally from the first portion 20 opposite to the bridging member 18. Thus, the first portion 20 and the mounting portion 22 may define an "L" shape. The mounting portion 20 may include a flange 24 extending therefrom opposite the first portion 20. The flange 24 may extend outwardly from axis A. The pair of sleeve mounting plates 14 may be configured to connect to the mounting bracket plates 16. The sleeve mounting plates 14 may extend from an end 28 of the sleeve 12. In some embodiments, the sheath mounting plate 14 may be sized to fit between the mounting bracket plates 16. In this way, each sheath mounting plate 14 can interface with the inner surface of one of the mounting bracket plates 16.

[0040] Continue to refer to Figure 1A At least one sheath mounting plate 14 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 14) includes a mating aperture 30. Each mating aperture 30 includes a circular pivot portion 32 and a slot 34 extending outwardly from the pivot portion 32. The mating aperture 30 may be at least partially located on the mounting portion 22, and the slot 34 may extend through the flange 24 to define a flange clearance.

[0041] At least one sheath mounting plate 14 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 14) includes a mating protrusion 36. Each mating protrusion 36 may include at least one tab 38 connected to an opposite side interface of the pivot portion 32 and a cantilever 40 extending from each tab 38, the tab overhanging a surface of the mounting bracket plate 16 surrounding the pivot portion 32. As shown, at least one tab 38 may include a pair of opposing tabs 38, each opposing tab 38 may have a circular outer surface for connection to an edge interface of the pivot portion 32 to facilitate pivoting movement therebetween. The opposing tabs 38 may be located on diametrically opposite sides of the pivot portion 32 such that the cantilever 40 extends in opposite directions. The slot 34 is sized to allow the cantilever 40 to be inserted therein. In some embodiments, during assembly, flange gaps on each mounting bracket plate 16 allow the entire mating protrusion 36 to be inserted therein with linear movement.

[0042] Figures 1B to 1D An enlarged view of the interface connection between the mounting bracket 10 and the sheath 12 is shown in general. More specifically, Figure 1B The mounting bracket 10 and sheath 12 are shown in the disconnected state. The sheath mounting plate 14 may include anti-rotation protrusions 42 extending transversely to the pair of tabs 38. The anti-rotation protrusions 42 are positioned and spaced apart within the slot 34. The mounting bracket plate 16 may include protrusions 44 on the diametrically opposite sides of the pivot portion 32 for interface engagement with the cantilever 40 and for pushing the cantilever 40 outward (e.g., bending) and / or pushing the protrusions 44 inward. More specifically, recesses may be located on the mounting bracket plate 16 opposite the protrusions 44 to allow inward deflection during assembly. Thus, when assembled, multiple portions of the mounting bracket plate 16 may be biased inward to maintain the connection between the mounting bracket 10 and the sheath 12. Figure 1C As shown, the anti-rotation protrusion 42 can be sized to move within the groove 34 to allow a limited degree of pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 10 and the sheath 12. Figure 1D An enlarged internal view of the mounting bracket 10 connected to the sheath 12 is shown in general. It should be understood that, prior to assembly, the pair of tabs 38 may define an outer diameter larger than the diameter of the pivot portion 32 (e.g., between circular outer surfaces). In this way, each mating orifice 30 and each mating protrusion 36 can form a compression-fit connection.

[0043] Figures 1E to 1H An enlarged view of the interface connection between the mounting bracket 10 and the sheath 12 is shown from an additional perspective. (See attached image.) Figure 1E and Figure 1FAs best shown, the inner width can be defined by the inner surface of the mounting bracket plate 26, and the outer width can be defined by the outer surface of the sheath mounting plate 14. In some embodiments, the outer width can be greater than the inner width, such that the mounting bracket 10 elastically deforms at least partially to the sheath 12 during assembly. It should also be understood that, referring to... Figure 1F When the bridging member 18 is oriented for connection to a vehicle, the opposing cantilever can be wider than the slot 34, such that the mounting bracket 10 cannot be removed from the sheath 12 without the opposing hinge until the lengths of the two cantilever 40 are aligned with the slot 34. Figure 1G and Figure 1H The image shows an enlarged end view of a protrusion 44 on a mounting bracket connected to the interface between the cantilever 40 and the sheath, in a disconnected state according to the first arrangement. In some embodiments, the width between the apex of the protrusion 44 and the opposite side of the mounting bracket plate 16 may be greater than the width between the lower surface of the cantilever 40 and the base of the tab 38.

[0044] Figure 1I The assembly process of attaching the mounting bracket 10 to the sheath 12 according to the first arrangement is generally shown. Starting from the leftmost image and moving to the right, at 46, the assembly process begins with aligning the mating orifice 30 (e.g., slot 34) with the mating protrusion 36. For example, the mounting bracket 10 may be rotated until the opposing cantilever 40 is aligned with the length of the slot 34. After alignment, at 48, the mounting bracket 10 and the sheath 12 may be moved linearly together such that the mating protrusion 36 enters the slot 34 (e.g., through the flange gap and into the slot 34). Step 48 may include flexing the mounting bracket plate 26 away from each other to fit onto the sheath mounting plate 14. At step 50, the assembly process may include rotating the mounting bracket 10 relative to the sheath 12 until the cantilever 40 is no longer aligned with the length of the slot 34. Step 50 may include: as the cantilever 40 rotates to align with the protrusion 44, the mounting bracket plate 16 further flexes (see...). Figure 1A ).

[0045] Figure 2AA mounting bracket 110 connected to a sheath 112 according to a second arrangement of the present disclosure is generally shown. The sheath 112 extends along axis A and includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 114 for connection to the mounting bracket 110. More specifically, the mounting bracket 110 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 116 spaced apart by bridging members 118 and extending to a flange 124. At least one sheath mounting plate 114 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 114) includes a mating aperture 130. Each mating aperture 130 includes a circular pivot portion 132 and a slot 134 extending outwardly from the pivot portion 132. The slot 134 may extend through the flange 124 to define a flange clearance. At least one sheath mounting plate 114 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 114) includes a mating protrusion 136. Each mating protrusion 136 may include at least one tab 138 (e.g., diameter-opposite tabs 138) connected to the opposite side interface of the pivot portion 132 and a cantilever 140 extending from each tab 138, the tab overhanging the surface of the mounting bracket plate 116 surrounding the pivot portion 132. The sheath mounting plate 114 may include anti-rotation protrusions 142 extending transversely to the pair of tabs 138. The anti-rotation protrusions 142 are positioned spaced apart within a slot 134. The anti-rotation protrusions 142 may be sized to move within the slot 134 to allow a limited degree of pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 110 and the sheath 112. The anti-rotation protrusions 142 may include a stop surface 143 for forming a hard stop along a first pivot direction and a ramp surface 145 for allowing assembly along a second pivot direction.

[0046] Figure 2B An enlarged end view of the interface connection portion of the mounting bracket 110 is shown in general. The mounting bracket plate 116 may define a cantilever retaining recess 147 having a pair of opposing extending ramps 144 that bend the cantilever 140 outwards. The cantilever retaining recess 147 includes a hard stop protrusion 149 for interface connection with the cantilever 140 and for limiting pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 110 and the sheath 112. The inner surface of the pivoting portion 132 may include hook-shaped inner surface protrusions 151, which further limit pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 110 and the sheath 112. It should be understood that the sheath 112 may be a multi-piece assembly. Thus, the sheath 112 may include a buckle 152, which may be sized to connect with a second sheath portion (not shown).

[0047] Figure 2CThe assembly process of attaching a mounting bracket to a sheath according to a second arrangement is generally shown. Starting from the leftmost image and moving to the right, at 146, the assembly process begins by aligning the mating orifice 130 (e.g., slot 134) with the mating protrusion 136. For example, the mounting bracket 110 may be rotated until the opposing cantilever 140 is aligned with the length of the slot 134. After alignment, at 148, the mounting bracket 110 and the sheath 112 may be moved linearly together such that the mating protrusion 136 enters the slot 134 (e.g., through the flange gap and into the slot 34). Step 148 may include flexing the mounting bracket plate 126 away from each other to fit onto the sheath mounting plate 114. At 150, the assembly process may include rotating the mounting bracket 110 relative to the sheath 112 until the cantilever 140 is no longer aligned with the length of the slot 134. Step 150 may include: as the cantilever 140 rotates along the ramp surface 144 and locks between the hard stop protrusion 149 and the hook-shaped inner surface protrusion 151, the mounting bracket plate 116 further flexes. An additional step may include attaching the latch 152 to the second sheath portion.

[0048] Figure 3 The mounting bracket 210, connected to a sheath 212, is generally shown according to a third arrangement of the present disclosure. The sheath 212 extends along axis A and includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 214 for connection to the mounting bracket 210. More specifically, the mounting bracket 210 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 216 spaced apart by bridging members 218 and extending to a flange 224. At least one mounting bracket plate 216 (e.g., two mounting bracket plates 216) includes a mating aperture 230. Each mating aperture 230 includes a circular pivot portion 232 and a slot 234 extending outwardly from the pivot portion 232. The slot 234 may extend through the flange 224 to define a flange clearance. At least one sheath mounting plate 214 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 214) includes a mating protrusion 236. Each mating protrusion 236 may include at least one tab 238 (e.g., a single tab 238 having opposing rounded ends) connected to the opposite side interface of the pivot portion 232 and a cantilever 240 extending from each of the opposing rounded ends of the tab 238, the tab overhanging the surface of the mounting bracket plate 216 surrounding the pivot portion 232. As shown, one pair of the two pairs of interface-connected sheath mounting plates 214 and mounting bracket plates 216 may not include mating orifices 230 or mating protrusions 236. Instead, the pair of interface-connected sheath mounting plates 214 and mounting bracket plates 216 may have fastener orifices 252 extending therefrom to receive fasteners (not shown), etc. A pair of opposing ramps 244 may be aligned with each cantilever 240.

[0049] Figure 4The diagram generally shows an end view of a mounting bracket 310 connected to a sheath 312 according to a fourth arrangement of the present disclosure. The sheath 312 extends along axis A and includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 314 for connection to the mounting bracket 310. More specifically, the mounting bracket 310 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 316 spaced apart by bridging members 318. At least one sheath mounting plate 314 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 314) includes a mating aperture 330. Each mating aperture 330 includes a circular pivot portion 332 and a slot 334 extending outwardly from the pivot portion 332. At least one mounting bracket plate 316 (e.g., two mounting bracket plates 316) includes an inwardly extending mating protrusion 336. Each mating protrusion 336 may include at least one tab 338 (e.g., a pair of diameter-opposite tabs 338 or a single tab 338) connected to the side interface of the pivot portion 332 and a cantilever 340 having a circular shape extending from each tab 338, the tab overhanging the inner surface of the sheath mounting plate 314 surrounding the pivot portion 332. As shown, one of the two pairs of interface-connected sheath mounting plates 314 and mounting bracket plates 316 may not include mating orifices 330 or mating protrusions 336. Instead, the pair of interface-connected sheath mounting plates 314 and mounting bracket plates 316 may have fastener orifices 352 extending therefrom to receive fasteners (not shown), etc. A slot 334 may extend upward from the pivot portion 332 into the upper surface of the sheath 312 located below the bridging member 318 to form a gap to facilitate assembly.

[0050] Figure 5The diagram generally shows an end view of a mounting bracket 410 connected to a sheath 412 according to a fifth arrangement of the present disclosure. The sheath 412 extends along axis A and includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 414 for connection to the mounting bracket 410. More specifically, the mounting bracket 410 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 416 spaced apart by bridging members 418. At least one sheath mounting plate 414 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 414) includes a mating aperture 430. Each mating aperture 430 includes a circular pivot portion 432 and a slot 434 extending outwardly from the pivot portion 432. At least one mounting bracket plate 416 (e.g., two mounting bracket plates 416) includes an inwardly extending mating protrusion 436. Each mating protrusion 436 may include at least one tab 438 (e.g., a pair of diameter-opposite tabs 438) connected to the opposite side interface of the pivot portion 432 and a cantilever 440 extending from each tab 438, the tab overhanging the surface of the sheath mounting plate 414 surrounding the pivot portion 432. As shown, one of the two pairs of interface-connected sheath mounting plates 414 and mounting bracket plates 416 may not include mating orifices 430 or mating protrusions 436. Instead, the pair of interface-connected sheath mounting plates 414 and mounting bracket plates 416 may have fastener orifices 452 extending therefrom to receive fasteners (not shown), etc. Slots 434 may generally extend from the pivot portion 432 along the length of the sheath 412.

[0051] Figure 6 The image generally shows a mounting bracket 510 connected to a sheath 512 according to a sixth arrangement of the present disclosure. The sheath 512 extends along axis A and includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 514 for connection to the mounting bracket 510. More specifically, the mounting bracket 510 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 516 spaced apart by bridging members 518 and extending to a flange 524. At least one mounting bracket plate 516 (e.g., two mounting bracket plates 516) includes a mating aperture 530. Each mating aperture 530 includes a circular pivot portion 532 and a slot 534 extending outwardly from the pivot portion 532. The slot 534 may extend through the flange 524 to define a flange clearance. At least one sheath mounting plate 514 (e.g., two sheath mounting plates 514) includes a mating protrusion 536. Each mating protrusion 536 may include at least one tab 538 (e.g., a single tab 538 having opposing rounded ends) connected to the opposite side interface of the pivot portion 532 and a cantilever 540 extending from each rounded end of the tab 538, the tab overhanging the surface of the mounting bracket plate 516 surrounding the pivot portion 532. The slot 534 may be more than previously... Figure 3The arrangement shown is narrower to allow for additional pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 510 and the sheath 512. A pair of opposing ramps 544 can be aligned with each cantilever 540. It should be understood that the sheath 512 can be a multi-piece assembly. Thus, the sheath 512 may include a latch 552, which is sized for connection to a second sheath portion (not shown).

[0052] Figure 7 The mounting bracket 610 connected to the sheath 612 according to a seventh arrangement of the present disclosure is shown in general. The seventh arrangement has a similar construction to the sixth arrangement; however, the slot 634, locked to the mounting bracket plate 526, is angled upwards (e.g., at an angle of less than 90° to the bridging member 618 and / or axis A). This angled slot 634 allows for additional pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 610 and the sheath 612 before the lengths of the pair of cantilever arms 640 are aligned with those of the slot 634. It should be understood that the sheath 612 may be a multi-piece assembly. Thus, the sheath 612 may include a latch 652, which may be sized to connect with a second sheath portion (not shown).

[0053] Figure 8 The mounting bracket 710 connected to the sheath 712 according to an eighth arrangement of the present disclosure is shown in general. In the eighth arrangement, at least one of a pair of mounting bracket plates 716 (e.g., two mounting bracket plates 716) includes a mating protrusion 736. Each mating protrusion 736 may include at least one tab 738 (e.g., a pair of diameter-opposite tabs 738) for engagement with opposite side interfaces of the pivot portion 732. A cantilever 740 extends from the rounded end of each tab 738, which hangs over the surface surrounding the pivot portion 732. Each tab 738 may include a U-shaped wall having a rounded end that engages with the interface of the pivot portion 732. Due to the rigidity of the U-shaped design, a flexible groove 751 can separate the tab 738 to allow a compression fit as previously described herein. It should be understood that the sheath 712 may be a multi-piece assembly. Thus, the sheath 712 may include a latch 752, which may be sized for engagement with a second sheath portion (not shown).

[0054] Figure 9 The mounting bracket 810 connected to the sheath 812 according to a ninth arrangement of the present disclosure is shown in general. In the ninth arrangement, a pair of tabs 838 may include cantilever 840 that defines a circular profile that substantially covers more surface (e.g., at least 30%) around the pivot portion 832. The slot 834 may be wider than those previously presented to receive the cantilever 840 during assembly. It should be understood that the sheath 812 may be a multi-piece assembly. Thus, the sheath 812 may include a latch 852 that may be sized for connection with a second sheath portion (not shown).

[0055] Figure 10A and Figure 10B The mounting bracket 910 connected to the sheath 912 according to a tenth arrangement of the present disclosure is shown in general. In the tenth arrangement, the mounting bracket 910 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 916 with mating orifices 930, and the sheath 912 includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 914 with mating protrusions 936. The mounting bracket plates 916 and sheath mounting plates 914 are in an asymmetrical configuration paired together. More specifically, one of the mounting bracket plates 916 is disposed on the outer surface of one of the sheath mounting plates 914, and the other mounting bracket plate 916 is disposed on the inner surface of the other sheath mounting plate 914. A retainer 952 extends from each sheath mounting plate 914 and includes a U-shape that supports the bottom outer edge of the corresponding mounting bracket plate 916. The retainer 952 can limit pivoting movement between the mounting bracket 910 and the sheath 912. The retainers 952 also provide redundant retention along the axis of rotation of the mounting bracket 910. As shown, the mating orifice 930 may include slots 934 extending through both sides (e.g., diameter) of the pivot portion 932. Protrusions 944, connected to the interface of the cantilever 940, may be positioned around the pivot portion 932 between (e.g., centered between) the extensions of each slot 934.

[0056] Figure 11A and Figure 11B The mounting bracket 1010 connected to the sheath 1012 according to the eleventh arrangement of this disclosure is generally shown. In the eleventh arrangement, the mounting bracket 1010 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 1016 having mating orifices 1030, and the sheath 1012 includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 1014 having mating protrusions 1036. As shown, the mating orifice 1030 may include a narrow slot 1034 extending through both sides (e.g., diameter) of the pivot portion 1032. An extension of the slot 1034 may extend through the outer edge of the mounting bracket plate 1016, such that a flange clearance is not necessary. The mating protrusions 1036 may each include a single tab 1038, which includes opposing cantilever 1040. Figure 11B As best shown, the cantilever 1040 may be plate-shaped and include a bend 1052 that connects to a surface interface surrounding the pivot portion 1032. Tabs 1038 may compressively engage around the sheath 1012 such that they are biased inward. An internal protrusion 1053 may further bend the cantilever 1040 away from the sheath mounting plate 1014 to increase the inward biasing force and stiffness. The surface surrounding the pivot portion 1032 may include one or more ramps 1044 (e.g., relatively inclined ramps).

[0057] In the above embodiments, it should be understood that the disclosed cantilever may not be present in some embodiments. The cantilever can facilitate delashing of the assembly, but in some embodiments, lateral or cross-vehicle delashing can adequately provide an interference fit between the mounting bracket plate and the sheath.

[0058] Figures 12A to 12C The mounting bracket 1110 connected to the sheath 1112 according to a twelfth arrangement of the present disclosure is shown in general. In the twelfth arrangement, the mounting bracket 1110 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 1116 having a mating orifice 1130, and the sheath 1112 includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 1114 having a mating protrusion 1136. As shown, the mating protrusion 1136 may include a circular tab 1138 extending through and interfaceing with the outer edge of the pivot portion 1132 of the mating orifice 1130. The mounting bracket plate 1116, instead of a slot, may define a closed channel 1152 for receiving the tab 1138 during linear movement of the assembly. Figure 12B As best shown, the tab 1138 may include a ramp surface 1144 near its base. Figure 12C As best shown, the sheath mounting plate 1114 may include a spring finger 1154 extending into the channel 1152 to reach a rounded end 1156 that engages with a tab 1138. The spring finger 1154 can flex outwards during assembly (e.g., via pressure from the tab 1138) and snaps into place once the tab 1138 is in the pivot portion 1132. The surfaces of the tabs(a) facing the spring finger 1154 and the rounded end 1156 are substantially geometrically conical or inclined cylindrical. This allows it to function as an unlocking wedge when the spring finger 1154 is snapped into place.

[0059] Figure 13A and Figure 13B The mounting bracket 1210 connected to the sheath 1212 according to a thirteenth arrangement of the present disclosure is shown in general. In the thirteenth arrangement, the mounting bracket 1210 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 1216 having mating protrusions 1236, and the sheath 1212 includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 1214 having mating orifices 1230. As shown, the mating protrusion 1236 may include a tab 1238 having an elongated shape and opposing rounded edges that connect with the outer edge interface of the pivot portion 1232 of the mating orifice 1230. The mating orifice 1230 may include a bottom 1252 such that it does not extend completely through the sheath 1212. The mating orifice 1230 may also include a slot 1234 extending to the outer edge of the sheath mounting plate 1214. The bottom 1252 may also extend along the slot 1234.

[0060] Figure 14The mounting bracket 1310 connected to the sheath 1312 according to the fourteenth arrangement of this disclosure is generally shown. In the fourteenth arrangement, the mounting bracket 1310 includes a pair of mounting bracket plates 1316 with mating orifices 1330, and the sheath 1312 includes a pair of sheath mounting plates 1314 with mating protrusions 1336. As shown, the mounting bracket 1310 is configured as a roof bracket having an elongated body and one or more openings 1319 located at the ends of the roof bracket opposite to the mounting bracket plates 1316 for mounting to a vehicle using fasteners (not shown). The components used in this embodiment are substantially the same as those disclosed in FIG1, but the mounting bracket 1310 is a unified entity of an upper mounting bracket and a lower mounting bracket. It should be understood that mounting brackets in other arrangements may also be configured as roof brackets.

[0061] While the invention has been described in detail with respect to only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention is capable of being modified to include any number of variations, modifications, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not described to date but equivalent in spirit and scope to the invention. Additionally, although various embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Furthermore, any feature, element, component, or advantage of any embodiment may be used in any other embodiment. Therefore, the invention should not be considered as limited by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A steering column assembly, comprising: A sheath, extending along an axis and including a pair of sheath mounting plates on opposite sides of the axis; Mounting bracket includes a pair of mounting bracket plates spaced apart by a bridging member, wherein each of the mounting bracket plates is operatively connected to the sheath mounting plate; At least one mounting bracket plate includes a mating orifice defined by a circular pivot portion and a slot extending outward from said pivot portion; At least one sheath mounting plate includes a mating protrusion, the mating protrusion including at least one tab connected to an opposite side interface of the pivot portion, wherein the at least one tab includes a pair of tabs, each tab including a cantilever, the cantilever of the pair of tabs extending in opposite directions, each tab overhanging a surface of the sheath mounting plate surrounding the pivot portion; and The slot is sized to allow the tabs and cantilever to be inserted therein during assembly.

2. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the tabs is located on the opposite side of the pivot portion and includes a circular outer surface that interfaces with the outer edge of the pivot portion.

3. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The circular outer surface defines the diameter of the protrusion, and the outer edge of the pivot portion defines the diameter of the orifice, wherein the outer edge of the pivot portion compresses the diameter of the protrusion, causing the tab to be biased inward.

4. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one mounting bracket plate includes a protrusion aligned with each cantilever, the protrusion causing the cantilever to bend outward.

5. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one mounting bracket plate defines a pair of opposing inclined ramps that cause the cantilever to bend outward.

6. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one mounting bracket plate includes a hard stop protrusion for connecting to the cantilever interface and defining pivoting movement between the mounting bracket and the sheath.

7. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The slot is transverse to each of the tabs.

8. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The slot includes a first slot extension extending from a first portion of the pivot portion and a second slot extension extending from the opposite side of the pivot portion.

9. The steering column assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one sheath mounting plate includes a U-shaped retainer for connecting to the outer edge interface of the mounting bracket plate and defining pivoting movement between the mounting bracket and the sheath.

10. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The sheath defines an anti-rotation protrusion extending into the slot.

11. The steering column assembly of claim 10, wherein, The anti-rotation protrusion is sized to move within the slot to allow a limited degree of pivoting movement between the mounting bracket and the sheath.

12. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The inner surface of the mounting bracket plate is connected to the outer surface of the sheath mounting plate, and wherein the mounting bracket plate is flexed outward by the sheath mounting plate.

13. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting bracket plate includes a flange extending laterally therefrom, and the flange defines a portion of the slot to allow the mating protrusion to be inserted therethrough during assembly.

14. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The slot extends through the outer edge of the mounting bracket plate.

15. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The sheath mounting plate is located between the axis and the mounting bracket plate.

16. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, wherein, One of the sheath mounting plates is connected to the inner surface of one of the mounting bracket plates, and one of the sheath mounting plates is connected to the outer surface of the other of the mounting bracket plates.

17. A steering column assembly, comprising: A sheath, extending along an axis and including a pair of sheath mounting plates on opposite sides of the axis; Mounting bracket, comprising a pair of mounting bracket plates spaced apart by a bridging member, wherein each of the mounting bracket plates is operatively connected to a sheath mounting plate; At least one of the sheath mounting plates includes a mating opening defined by a circular pivot portion and a slot extending outward from the pivot portion; At least one of the mounting bracket plates includes a mating protrusion and a cantilever, the mating protrusion including at least one tab extending inwardly to connect with an opposite side interface of the pivot portion, the cantilever extending from the at least one tab in a direction away from the pivot portion, the at least one tab overhanging a surface of the sheath mounting plate surrounding the pivot portion; and The slot is sized to allow the cantilever and the at least one tab to be inserted therein during assembly; The at least one tab includes a pair of tabs, wherein each tab includes a cantilever extending in opposite directions.

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