Steering column assembly with outer translation and inner telescoping

Abstract

An axially adjustable steering column assembly includes an upper shroud and a lower shroud. The steering column assembly further includes a column mounting bracket, wherein the lower shroud is operatively coupled to the column mounting bracket and is translatable relative to the column mounting bracket, wherein the column mounting bracket defines a first set of tapered track slots each respectively disposed on opposite sides of the column mounting bracket and extending longitudinally along the column mounting bracket, wherein the lower shroud defines a second set of tapered track slots each respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lower shroud and extending longitudinally along the lower shroud. The steering column assembly further includes a first pair of sliding wedge bushings disposed within the first set of tapered track slots.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 331,922, filed on April 18, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments described herein relate to vehicle steering systems, and more particularly to a steering column assembly that translates externally and extends internally. Background Technology

[0004] Vehicles (such as cars, trucks, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, boats, aircraft, ATVs, recreational vehicles, or other suitable vehicles) include a variety of steering system schemes, such as steer-by-wire and driver-interface steering. These steering system schemes typically include a steering column to translate steering inputs into outputs that interact with steering linkages to ultimately cause the wheels (or other elements) to steer the vehicle.

[0005] Some steering columns offer axial adjustment between multiple positions. In the past, the function of axially adjustable steering columns was to provide flexibility in the handwheel (steering wheel) position and to facilitate a more comfortable driving position for drivers of different sizes. However, there is now the opportunity for greater extension and retraction, also known as stowage (i.e., when the handwheel is not needed). For example, the handwheel can be repositioned further away from the driver to allow him or her to do things other than operating the vehicle, such as working on a laptop while the vehicle is parked. Other examples include vehicles with autonomous driving capabilities, where the handwheel can be stowed when the vehicle is in autonomous driving mode.

[0006] Steering column assemblies that move significantly to their retracted position can be quite long. This greater length presents packaging challenges, particularly compared to traditional internally retracted columns (i.e., sleeves within a sleeve or triple sleeves). Due to the required column length and the associated long retractable length requirements, the handwheel feedback actuator is positioned in a critical area for energy absorption during vehicle malfunctions. Addressing these packaging challenges is highly anticipated by the industry for steering columns requiring full retraction capability. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an axially adjustable steering column assembly includes an upper sheath. The steering column assembly also includes a lower sheath, wherein the upper sheath is received within the lower sheath and is telescopically adjustable therein. The steering column assembly further includes a column mount, wherein the lower sheath is operatively coupled to the column mount and is translatable relative to the column mount, wherein the column mount defines a first set of tapered track grooves, each of which is respectively disposed on opposite sides of the column mount and extends longitudinally along the column mount, wherein the lower sheath defines a second set of tapered track grooves, each of which is respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lower sheath and extends longitudinally along the lower sheath. The steering column assembly further includes a first pair of sliding wedge bushings, wherein each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings is disposed within a corresponding one of the first set of tapered track grooves. The steering column assembly also includes a pair of first bolts extending through a first pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively connecting the first pair of sliding wedge bushings to a column mount bracket. The steering column assembly also includes a first actuator operatively connected to an upper sleeve to control telescoping adjustment of the upper sleeve relative to a lower sleeve. The steering column assembly further includes a second actuator operatively connected to a lower sleeve to control translational adjustment of the lower sleeve relative to the column mount bracket.

[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an axially adjustable steering column assembly includes an upper sheath. The steering column assembly also includes a lower sheath, wherein the upper sheath is received within the lower sheath and is telescopically adjustable therein. The steering column assembly also includes a column mount, wherein the lower sheath is operatively coupled to the column mount and is translatable relative to the column mount, wherein the column mount defines a first set of tapered track grooves, each of the first set of tapered track grooves being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the column mount and extending longitudinally along the column mount, wherein the lower sheath defines a second set of tapered track grooves, each of the second set of tapered track grooves being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lower sheath and extending longitudinally along the lower sheath. The steering column assembly further includes a first pair of sliding wedge bushings, wherein each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings is disposed within a corresponding one of the first pair of tapered track grooves. The steering column assembly also includes a pair of first bolts, wherein the pair of first bolts extends through the first pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively engages the first pair of sliding wedge bushings to the column mount. The steering column assembly also includes a second pair of sliding wedge bushings, each of which is disposed within a corresponding one of a second pair of tapered track grooves. The steering column assembly also includes a pair of second bolts extending through the second pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively connecting the second pair of sliding wedge bushings to the lower sheath. The steering column assembly further includes a first actuator operatively connected to the upper sheath to control telescoping adjustment of the upper sheath relative to the lower sheath. The steering column assembly also includes a second actuator operatively connected to the lower sheath to control translation adjustment of the lower sheath relative to the column mount. The steering column assembly also includes a handwheel feedback actuator housing operatively connected to the lower sheath, wherein the handwheel feedback actuator housing, together with the lower sheath, translates relative to the column mount.

[0009] These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The subject matter considered to be inventive is specifically pointed out and expressly claimed in the claims appended to this specification. The above and other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 This schematically illustrates a vehicle (transportation) steering system;

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the steering column assembly used in the vehicle's steering system;

[0013] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the steering column assembly with the column mount bracket removed; and

[0014] Figure 4A and Figure 4B These are side front views of the steering column assembly at different axial positions. Detailed Implementation

[0015] The following discussion is intended for 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 or otherwise used to limit 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 illustrative of that embodiment and is not intended to imply that the scope of this disclosure (including the claims) is limited to that embodiment.

[0016] As described, vehicles (such as cars, trucks, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, boats, aircraft, ATVs, recreational vehicles, or other suitable vehicles) include a variety of steering system schemes, such as steer-by-wire and driver-interface steering. These steering system schemes typically include a steering column to translate steering inputs into outputs that interact with steering linkages to ultimately cause the wheels (or other elements) to steer the vehicle. Some steering columns are axially adjustable between multiple positions. In the past, the function of axially adjustable steering columns was to provide flexibility in handwheel position and to facilitate a more comfortable driving position for drivers of different sizes. However, there is now an opportunity for more extension travel, which can also be called retractable travel (i.e., when the handwheel is not needed). For example, the handwheel can be repositioned completely away from the driver to allow him or her to do things other than operating the vehicle, such as working on a laptop while the vehicle is parked. Other examples include vehicles with autonomous driving capabilities, such that the handwheel can be retracted when the vehicle is in autonomous driving mode.

[0017] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments are shown and described, but are not intended to limit these embodiments. Figures 1 to 4B Embodiments of an axially adjustable steering column assembly are illustrated, offering improved packaging and other operational advantages. Axial adjustability arises from relative movement between two steering column portions (e.g., bushings, brackets, rails, and / or the like) that allow axial movement therebetween. In this disclosure, the term "bushing" is used to refer to any form of column portion. In particular, upper and lower bushings will be described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Specific terminology is not intended to limit the specific type of steering column portion contemplated within the scope of this disclosure.

[0018] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the column portions works in conjunction with the relative movement between a plurality of steering shaft portions that allow axial movement therebetween. Axial movement refers to movement caused by relative telescopic, sliding, and / or translational movement between components in the longitudinal direction of the entire steering column assembly.

[0019] First refer to Figure 1 The diagram generally illustrates a vehicle 20 according to the principles of this disclosure. The vehicle 20 may include any suitable vehicle, such as an automobile, truck, SUV, minivan, crossover, any other passenger vehicle, any suitable commercial vehicle, or any other suitable vehicle. While the vehicle 20 may be a wheeled passenger vehicle used on roads, the principles of this disclosure can be applied to other vehicles, such as aircraft, tractors, ships, or other suitable vehicles. The vehicle 20 may include a propulsion system 30, such as an ignition system, an electronic system, or a combination thereof.

[0020] In some embodiments, the vehicle 20 may further include a steering system 40. The steering system 40 may be configured as a driver-interface steering system, an autonomous driving system, or a system that allows for both driver-interface and autonomous steering. The steering system may include an input device 42, such as a steering wheel, through which a driver can mechanically provide steering input by turning the steering wheel. The steering column assembly 44 includes a steering column 45 extending along an axis from the input device 42 to an output assembly 46. The output assembly 46 is part of a steer-by-wire and / or autonomous driving system. The output assembly 46 may be referred to as an emulator and is used to provide feedback to the steering input device 42 and receive manual driver input for steering control.

[0021] The steering column 45 includes two axially adjustable parts, such as an upper sleeve 48 and a lower sleeve 50 that are axially adjustable relative to each other.

[0022] The steering column 45 is movable between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position. In the fully extended position, the upper sleeve 48 is axially moved relative to the lower sleeve 50, positioning the input device 42 near the vehicle operator. In the retracted position, the upper sleeve 48 is axially moved relative to the lower sleeve 50, positioning the input device 42 further away from the vehicle operator compared to the extended position. In some embodiments, the retracted position may correspond to retracting the input device 42. For example, it may be advantageous to place the input device 42 in the retracted position during autonomous driving. In operation, the axial movement between the upper sleeve 48 and the lower sleeve 50 is electromechanically achieved by means of one or more actuators. This axial movement is adjusted between the extended position, the retracted position, and any intermediate position. As described in detail below, the steering column is axially movable within a first position range and a second position range.

[0023] Steering gear assembly 54 can be connected to output assembly 46 via steering gear input shaft 56. Steering gear assembly 54 can be configured as a rack and pinion, a recirculating ball steering gear, or any other type of steering gear mechanism associated with autonomous and driver interface steering systems. Steering gear assembly 54 can then be connected to drive shaft 58 via output shaft 60. Output shaft 60 may include a steering rocker arm and sector gears and / or various conventional components. Output shaft 60 is operatively connected to steering gear assembly 54 such that rotation of steering gear input shaft 56 causes responsive movement of output shaft 60 and causes drive shaft to steer wheels 62.

[0024] Now refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows the steering column assembly 44 in more detail. An upper sleeve 48 is shown protruding from a lower sleeve 50. The lower sleeve 48 is operatively coupled to a column mount 70 and is axially translatable relative to the column mount 70. The column mount 70 is fixed relative to the vehicle structure to mount the steering column assembly 44 to the vehicle. A simulator 46 is at least partially positioned within a handwheel feedback actuator housing 76. The handwheel feedback actuator housing 76 is operatively coupled to the lower sleeve 50 in such a manner that it allows the housing 76 to travel axially with the lower sleeve 50 during operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the handwheel feedback actuator housing 76 is coupled to the front end of the lower sleeve 50.

[0025] The upper sleeve 48 is axially adjustable relative to the lower sleeve 50 within a first range of axial positions, which may be referred to as the "comfort range." This comfort range is the range of axial positions useful for manual driving during vehicle operation for operators of different sizes. Due to the movement of the upper sleeve 48 within the lower sleeve 50, the axial movement of the upper sleeve 48 relative to the lower sleeve 50 is telescopic. This comfort range includes the range of axial positions useful to the operator during manual driving mode of the vehicle. In other words, the steering input device 42 is accessible and can be comfortably controlled within the first range of axial positions.

[0026] This second range of axial position may be referred to as the “retractable range” of the steering column 45. This retractable range is the range of axial positions (compared to the comfort range) that moves the entire steering column assembly further away from the operator (i.e., toward the vehicle’s dashboard and firewall). In some embodiments, this fully retracted position is a retractable position that can be flush with the dashboard, firewall, or other vehicle structure. This axially movable retractable range includes further extension and retraction of the upper sheath 48 relative to the lower sheath, which combines with the axial movement of the lower sheath 50 relative to the column mount 70. The movement of the lower sheath 50 relative to the column mount 70 is translational, as the entire upper and lower sheaths adjacent to the column mount 70 move together.

[0027] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The steering column assembly 44 is shown in two axial positions. Specifically, Figure 4A The steering column assembly 44 is shown in the non-retracted position, with the upper sleeve 48 extending within a first range of the axial position. Figure 4B The diagram shows the steering column assembly 44 in the retracted position, with the upper sleeve 48 positioned in a fully retracted position relative to the lower sleeve 50, and the lower sleeve 50 translated sufficiently away from the operator relative to the column mount bracket 70.

[0028] Continue to refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The steering column assembly 44 includes a first actuator 72, which may be referred to as a comfort / retraction actuator. The first actuator 72 is operatively coupled to an upper sleeve 48 to control telescopic movement of the upper sleeve 48 relative to the lower sleeve 50 within a first range of axial positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuator 72 is mounted to a specific portion of the steering column assembly 44, but other mounting locations are also contemplated.

[0029] The steering column assembly 44 also includes a second actuator 74, which may be referred to as a retractable actuator. The second actuator 74 is operatively coupled to the lower sheath 50 to control translational movement of the lower sheath 50 relative to the column mount bracket 70 within a second range of axial positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the second actuator 74 is mounted to a specific portion of the steering column assembly 44, but other mounting locations are also contemplated.

[0030] Both the first and second actuators are located near the forward position of the steering column assembly 44 to accommodate axial movement during retraction. The term "forward" refers to the position relative to the vehicle where the steering column assembly 44 is positioned within and distal to the input device 42. Both actuators 72 and 74 are responsible for the full retraction movement of the steering column 45; however, only the first actuator 72 operates within a first range of axial adjustment position during comfort adjustment. In other words, the first actuator 72 is solely responsible for axial adjustment within the first range, but during retraction in the second range, i.e., the second travel range, both the first and second actuators 74 operate simultaneously. The first actuator 72 is attached between the upper sheath 48 and the lower sheath 50, while the second actuator 74 is attached between the column mount bracket 70 and the lower sheath 50. In some embodiments, both actuators 72 and 74 may be fixed to the handwheel feedback actuator housing 76 that houses the simulator 46.

[0031] Each actuator 72, 74 can cause axial movement of a corresponding associated component operatively connected thereto. As a non-limiting example, the embodiments of each actuator 72, 74 shown include an electric motor having an output shaft coupled to a lead screw. The lead screw has a nut screwed thereon such that rotation of the lead screw causes axial translation of the nut, as the rotatability of the nut is constrained. The corresponding nuts of each actuator 72, 74 are operatively connected to a component that drives axial movement of the component during operation. Specifically, the nut of the first actuator 72 causes axial movement of the upper sheath 48 relative to the lower sheath 50, while the nut of the second actuator 72 causes axial movement of the lower sheath 50 relative to the column mount bracket 70.

[0032] Additionally, as in Figure 3 As shown, the tilt actuator assembly 80 is mounted to the lower sheath 50. The tilt actuator assembly 80 controls the movement of the steering column assembly 44 in the tilt direction. The tilt actuator assembly 80 includes a tilt bracket 82 that is operatively coupled to the lower sheath 50 and adjusts the steering column 45 in a generally vertical direction about a pivot axis located near the front position of the steering column assembly 44.

[0033] As in Figure 2 , Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe column mounting bracket 70 defines the first set of tapered track grooves 90. (Refer to...) Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B The lower sheath 50 defines a second set of tapered track grooves 92. The first set of tapered track grooves 90 extends longitudinally in the axial direction of the steering column 45 and includes grooves located on each lateral side of the column mount 70. The second set of tapered track grooves 92 extends longitudinally in the axial direction of the steering column 45 and includes grooves on each lateral side of the lower sheath 50. The tapered grooves of the first set of tapered track grooves 90 taper from their widest dimension at a laterally outward position of the column mount 70 to a narrower dimension at a laterally inward position of the column mount 70. The tapered grooves of the second set of tapered track grooves 92 taper from their widest dimension at a laterally outward position of the lower sheath 50 to a narrower dimension at a laterally inward position of the lower sheath 50. The relative height of the first set of tapered track grooves 90 and the second set of tapered track grooves 92 can vary.

[0034] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The steering column assembly 44 is mounted to the column mount bracket 70 and connected thereto by means of bolts and sliding wedge bushings. Specifically, a first pair of sliding wedge bushings 94 are positioned within a first set of tapered track grooves 90, with one sliding wedge bushing on each side of the column mount bracket 70. Each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings 94 is connected to the tilt bracket 82 by means of a first set of bolts 96. The first pair of sliding wedge bushings 94 are positioned in an outward position on the column mount bracket 70, and the bolts 96 extend through the first sliding wedge bushings 94 into the tilt bracket 82. The tilt bracket 82 is connected to the lower housing 50 by means of one or more mechanical fasteners 93 on each side of the lower housing 50.

[0035] Now refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B A second pair of sliding wedge bushings 98 is provided at the second interface between the lower sheath 50 and the column mount bracket 70. This second pair of sliding wedge bushings is positioned within a second set of tapered track grooves 92, with one sliding wedge bushing on each side of the lower sheath 50. The second pair of sliding wedge bushings 98 are positioned outwards from the lower sheath 50 and are connected to the column mount bracket 70 by means of a pair of bolts 100 extending through the column mount bracket 70 and the second sliding wedge bushing 98. The lower sheath 50 and the tapered track grooves 90, 92 in the column mount bracket 70 serve as receiving interfaces for the sliding wedge bushings 94, 98 and provide guidance for the upper sheath 48 and the lower sheath 50 to translate relative to the column mount bracket 70 during retraction operations.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first sliding wedge bushing 94 and the second sliding wedge bushing 98 retract around the bolt or nut associated therewith when driven into the tapered track grooves 90, 92 on the column mount bracket 70 and the lower sheath 50, respectively, thereby de-lashing the joint.

[0037] The embodiments disclosed herein provide a retractable steering column assembly 44 that, during normal driving operation, moves its foremost footprint away from the firewall, thereby creating additional space for vehicle energy absorption during obstruction events. The disclosed embodiments allow for deep retraction with significant displacement, while simultaneously minimizing the footprint compared to other column designs (such as three-layer sheath designs) at the same retraction displacement.

[0038] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to only a limited number of embodiments, it is readily understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention can be modified to include any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements, though not previously described, that are commensurate with the concept and scope of the invention. Furthermore, while various embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that multiple aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Moreover, any feature, element, component, or advantage of any embodiment can be used in any other embodiment. Therefore, the invention should not be considered as limited by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. An axially adjustable steering column assembly, comprising: Top cover; A lower sheath, wherein the upper sheath is received within the lower sheath and is adjustable in length and retraction within the lower sheath; A column mounting bracket, wherein the lower sheath is operatively connected to the column mounting bracket and is translatable relative to the column mounting bracket, wherein the column mounting bracket defines a first set of tapered track grooves, each of the first set of tapered track grooves being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the column mounting bracket and extending longitudinally along the column mounting bracket, wherein the lower sheath defines a second set of tapered track grooves, each of the second set of tapered track grooves being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lower sheath and extending longitudinally along the lower sheath; The first pair of sliding wedge bushings, wherein each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings is disposed within a corresponding one of the first set of tapered track grooves; A pair of first bolts, wherein the pair of first bolts extends through the first pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively connects the first pair of sliding wedge bushings to the column mounting bracket; A first actuator is operatively connected to the upper sheath to control the extension and retraction of the upper sheath relative to the lower sheath. as well as A second actuator is operatively coupled to the lower sheath to control the translational adjustment of the lower sheath relative to the column mounting bracket.

2. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 1, further comprising a handwheel feedback actuator housing operatively coupled to the lower sheath, wherein the handwheel feedback actuator housing, together with the lower sheath, translates relative to the column mount bracket.

3. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 2, wherein the handwheel feedback actuator housing is operatively coupled to the lower sheath at a front position of the lower sheath.

4. The axially adjustable steering column assembly according to claim 1, further comprising: The second pair of sliding wedge bushings, wherein each of the second pair of sliding wedge bushings is disposed within a corresponding one of the second set of tapered track grooves; A pair of second bolts, wherein the pair of second bolts extends through the second pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively connects the second pair of sliding wedge bushings to the lower sheath.

5. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 4 further includes a tilt bracket operatively coupled to the lower sheath, wherein each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings is secured to the tilt bracket by means of the first bolt.

6. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 5, wherein the tilting bracket includes a pair of legs, each of the legs being positioned laterally inside the first pair of sliding wedge bushings.

7. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 5, wherein the second pair of sliding wedge bushings is axially positioned in front of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings.

8. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 4, wherein each of the second pair of sliding wedge bushings is directly connected to the column mounting bracket by means of the second bolt.

9. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 1, wherein the first actuator controls the movement of the steering column assembly within a first range of axial adjustment, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator operate simultaneously to control the movement of the steering column assembly within a second range of axial adjustment, wherein the second range of axial adjustment is the retraction range of the steering column assembly.

10. An axially adjustable steering column assembly, comprising: Top cover; A lower sheath, wherein the upper sheath is received within the lower sheath and is adjustable in length and retraction within the lower sheath; A column mounting bracket, wherein the lower sheath is operatively connected to the column mounting bracket and is translatable relative to the column mounting bracket, wherein the column mounting bracket defines a first set of tapered track grooves, each of the first set of tapered track grooves being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the column mounting bracket and extending longitudinally along the column mounting bracket, wherein the lower sheath defines a second set of tapered track grooves, each of the second set of tapered track grooves being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lower sheath and extending longitudinally along the lower sheath; The first pair of sliding wedge bushings, wherein each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings is disposed within a corresponding one of the first set of tapered track grooves; A pair of first bolts, wherein the pair of first bolts extends through a first pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively connects the first pair of sliding wedge bushings to the column mounting bracket; The second pair of sliding wedge bushings, wherein each of the second pair of sliding wedge bushings is disposed within a corresponding one of the second set of tapered track grooves; A pair of second bolts, wherein the pair of second bolts extends through the second pair of sliding wedge bushings and operatively connects the second pair of sliding wedge bushings to the lower sheath; A first actuator is operatively connected to the upper sheath to control the extension and retraction of the upper sheath relative to the lower sheath. A second actuator is operatively coupled to the lower sheath to control the translational adjustment of the lower sheath relative to the column mounting bracket; A handwheel feedback actuator housing is operatively coupled to the lower sheath, wherein the handwheel feedback actuator housing, together with the lower sheath, translates relative to the column mount bracket.

11. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 10, wherein the handwheel feedback actuator housing is operatively coupled to the lower sheath at a front position of the lower sheath.

12. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 10, further comprising a tilt bracket operatively coupled to the lower sheath, wherein each of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings is secured to the tilt bracket by means of the first bolt.

13. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 12, wherein the tilting bracket includes a pair of legs, each of the legs being positioned laterally inside the first pair of sliding wedge bushings.

14. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 13, wherein the second pair of sliding wedge bushings is axially positioned in front of the first pair of sliding wedge bushings.

15. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 10, wherein each of the second pair of sliding wedge bushings is directly connected to the column mounting bracket by means of the second bolt.

16. The axially adjustable steering column assembly of claim 10, wherein the first actuator controls the movement of the steering column assembly within a first range of axial adjustment, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator operate simultaneously to control the movement of the steering column assembly within a second range of axial adjustment, wherein the second range of axial adjustment is the retraction range of the steering column assembly.

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