Method and apparatus for coupling a steering column to a housing

Abstract

The present disclosure provides "Methods and apparatuses of coupling a steering column to a housing". Methods and apparatuses for coupling a steering column to a housing are disclosed. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a bracket fixed to a steering column assembly, the bracket including a bracket surface, and a housing including a protrusion extending from a housing surface of the housing, the housing surface facing in the same direction as the bracket surface, the protrusion including a first portion extending from the housing surface in a first direction and a second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction, the second portion of the protrusion overlapping the bracket surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to vehicles, and more specifically to methods and apparatus for connecting a steering column to a housing. Background Technology

[0002] The vehicle includes a steering column control module (SCCM) to operably connect the steering wheel to the steering column. The SCCM can transmit input from the driver to the rotation of the driving wheels. Additionally, in vehicles with autonomous or semi-autonomous driving capabilities, the SCCM can relay input from the autonomous driving system to the rotation of the steering wheel. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The example device disclosed herein includes: a bracket fixed to a steering column assembly, the bracket including a bracket surface; and a housing including a protrusion extending from a housing surface of the housing, the housing surface facing the same direction as the bracket surface, the protrusion including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface in a first direction, the second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction, the second portion of the protrusion overlapping the bracket surface.

[0004] The example device disclosed herein includes: a bracket extending radially outward from a steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a housing coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, the first surface of the bracket contacting the housing surface, and the second surface of the bracket contacting the protrusion.

[0005] The example vehicle disclosed herein includes: a steering column assembly including a steering column; a bracket fixedly coupled to the steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a housing coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, the bracket being positioned between the housing surface and the protrusion. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 An example vehicle system in which the example housing and bracket disclosed herein can be implemented is shown.

[0007] Figure 2 It shows that it can be used Figure 1 The first example housing and the first example bracket implemented in the vehicle system.

[0008] Figure 3 yes Figure 2The first example of a separate view of the bracket.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The first example is a detached view of the housing.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 and Figure 4 The first example shell has an enlarged view of an example protrusion.

[0011] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The first example shell is connected to Figure 2 The first example of a separate view of the bracket.

[0012] Figure 7 It shows that it can be used Figure 1 The first example housing and the second example bracket implemented in the vehicle system.

[0013] Figure 8 It is possible Figure 1 Separate view of the second example housing and the third example bracket implemented in the vehicle system.

[0014] Figure 9 It is possible Figure 1 Another separate view of the second example housing and the third example bracket implemented in the vehicle system.

[0015] Figure 10 yes Figures 8 to 9 The third example is a separate view of the bracket.

[0016] Figure 11 yes Figures 8 to 9 The second example is a detached view of the shell.

[0017] Figure 12 yes Figures 8 to 9 and Figure 11 The second example shell has an enlarged view of an example protrusion.

[0018] Figure 13 It is possible Figure 1 Separate view of the third example housing and the fourth example bracket implemented in the vehicle system.

[0019] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The fourth example bracket is shown in a separate view.

[0020] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 The third example is a detached view of the housing.

[0021] Figure 16 yes Figure 13 and Figure 15 An enlarged view of an example protrusion of the housing.

[0022] Figure 17 It is possible Figure 1 Separate views of the fourth example housing and the fifth example bracket implemented in the vehicle system.

[0023] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 The fifth example bracket is shown in a separate view.

[0024] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 The fourth example is a detached view of the housing.

[0025] Typically, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the accompanying drawings and written description to refer to the same or similar parts. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0026] This document discloses a method and apparatus for coupling a steering column to a housing. The housing includes an opening through which the steering column extends to be operatively coupled to the steering wheel. The housing may correspond to a multifunction switch housing. A multifunction switch (also called a combination switch) is an electronic switch that controls several vehicle functions. The multifunction switch may include a switching circuit system for turn signals, headlights, windshield wipers, interior lights, washer pumps, cruise control, hazard warning lights, etc. Furthermore, the housing may include and / or be coupled to an SCCM (Steering Continuous Motor Control Center). The SCCM may include a clock spring coil stator and a clock spring coil rotor to allow the steering wheel and steering column to rotate freely while maintaining electrical connection.

[0027] The steering column assembly includes a steering column, and a steering column sleeve is typically positioned around the steering column. The sleeve may include and / or be coupled to a bracket extending radially outward therefrom. Furthermore, the bracket may be coupled to a housing to enable the housing to support loads associated with the steering column.

[0028] In some previous examples, the bracket was attached to the housing via fasteners. However, to avoid the clock spring stator, the fasteners were positioned radially outward. Therefore, the bracket extended into an area of ​​the housing not occupied by the clock spring stator to facilitate the connection, which increased the size and weight of the bracket.

[0029] The examples disclosed herein provide a bracket and a housing connected via an interference fit and / or a transition fit. To this end, the examples disclosed herein support a reduction in the size and / or weight of the bracket. Additionally, the examples disclosed herein eliminate the need for additional parts (e.g., fasteners) to connect the bracket to the housing. Furthermore, the examples disclosed herein simplify the operation performed to connect the housing to the bracket. In some examples, the housing is connected to the bracket via a movement involving only translation. In some examples, the housing is connected to the bracket via a movement involving translation and subsequent rotation.

[0030] Figure 1 An example system 100 in which the examples disclosed herein may be implemented is shown. Specifically, system 100 includes a steering column assembly 102, a multifunction switch 104, a housing 106 (e.g., a multifunction switch housing, a steering column control module housing), and a clock spring coil assembly 108. The multifunction switch 104 may include a switching circuit system for turn signals, headlights, windshield wipers, interior lights, washer pumps, cruise control, hazard warning lights, etc. The steering column assembly 102 includes a steering column 110 and a steering column sleeve 112 (e.g., a steering column bushing) positioned around the steering column 110. The following... Figures 2 to 19 An example configuration is provided for housing 106 and bracket for attaching steering column assembly 102 (e.g., steering column sleeve 112) to housing 106.

[0031] Figure 2 A first example housing 202 and a first example bracket 204 are shown. The bracket 204 is fixed to the steering column assembly 102. Specifically, the bracket 204 is fixedly coupled to the steering column sleeve 112 and extends radially outward from the steering column sleeve. In some examples, the bracket 204 is welded to the steering column sleeve 112.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A split view of a first example bracket 204. The bracket 204 includes an inner periphery 302 (e.g., an inner diameter), an outer periphery 304 (e.g., an outer diameter), an aperture 306, and a hole 308. The aperture 306 and the hole 308 are positioned between the inner periphery 302 and the outer periphery 304. Each of the apertures 306 includes an enlarged circumferential end 310 and a slot 312 (e.g., a circumferential slot) extending from the circumferential end 310. Specifically, the enlarged port 310 has a first width W1, and the slot 312 has a second width W2 smaller than the first width W1. Although the inner periphery 302 and the outer periphery 304 are circular, the inner periphery 302 and the outer periphery 304 of the first example bracket 204 may have alternative shapes.

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A first example of a housing 202, shown in a split view. Housing 202 includes a surface 402, a protrusion 404 extending from the surface 402, and a spring-loaded pin 406. The spring-loaded pin 406 extends from a portion of the surface 402 including a fixed end 408 and a movable end 410. The spring-loaded pin 406 is positioned proximity to the movable end 410. The spring-loaded pin 406 is biased to... Figure 4 The location shown in the diagram indicates that the spring-loaded pin 406 extends beyond the surface 402 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 402. The spring-loaded pin 406 can move into the housing 202 in response to encountering a force that overcomes the spring force holding the spring-loaded pin 406 in an offset position, as discussed in further detail below. In some examples, the spring-loaded pin 406 includes a tapered side surface 412. Specifically, the tapered side surface 412 is angled to reduce the circumference of the outer surface 414 relative to the base 416 in the spring-loaded pin 406. The tapered side surface 412 facilitates the support 204 ( Figures 2 to 3 It slides on the spring-loaded pin 406 during assembly, as discussed in further detail below.

[0034] Additionally, housing 202 includes a tubular surface 418 positioned around bore 420, in which steering column assembly 102 is positioned. Furthermore, housing 202 includes a radial protrusion 422 (e.g., a radial clearance protrusion) projecting from tubular surface 418 into bore 420. When bracket 204 is engaged with housing 202 and steering column sleeve 112 is positioned in bore 420, radial protrusion 422 contacts steering column sleeve 112 and prevents or otherwise reduces its radial movement.

[0035] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 and Figure 4 An enlarged view of one of the protrusions 404 of the first example housing 202. The protrusion 404 includes a first portion 502, a second portion 504, a third portion 506, and a slit 508. The first portion 502 extends from the surface 402 in a first direction. For example, the first portion 502 may extend from the surface 402 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 402.

[0036] The slit 508 extends at least partially through the first portion 502. For example, the slit 508 may extend through the first portion 502 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 402. Thus, the slit 508 is positioned between and separates the first segment 510 and the second segment 512 of the first portion 502 of the protrusion 404.

[0037] The second portion 504 extends from the first portion 502 in a second direction. For example, the second portion 504 may extend from the first portion 502 in a direction perpendicular to the first portion 502. In this example, the second portion 504 extends from the second segment 512 of the first portion 502 of the protrusion 404. The third portion 506 extends from the second portion 504 toward the surface 402.

[0038] In some examples, the second portion 504 extends from the first portion 502 at an angle, which positions the second portion 504 closer to the surface 402 as the distance from the first portion 502 increases. In such examples, the protrusion 404 may not include the third portion 506.

[0039] Now for reference Figures 2 to 5 During a first assembly operation (e.g., a first coupling operation) of attaching the housing 202 to the bracket 204, the protrusion 404 aligns with and moves through the enlarged circumferential end 310 of the aperture 306. Therefore, the first assembly operation includes a translation (e.g., linear movement) of the housing 202 relative to the bracket 204 to position the protrusion 404 in the enlarged circumferential end 310 of the aperture 306. Furthermore, the bracket 204 includes a first surface 314 that contacts the housing surface 402 in response to the translation. Figure 3 ).

[0040] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, after the first assembly operation, the spring-loaded pin 406 is positioned in the slot 312. Figure 6 A second example bracket 602 is shown after the first assembly operation. The second example bracket 602 is similar to... Figures 2 to 4 The 204 support is different in that Figure 6 The support 602 includes different slots 604. Specifically, the slot 604 has a length extending from the circumferential end 310. Figures 2 to 4 The first example bracket 204 has a slot 312 with a smaller channel 606. Therefore, the bracket 602 contacts the spring-loaded pin 406 (not shown) during the first assembly operation and pushes it into the housing 202.

[0041] Figure 7 This is a split view of a first example housing 202 attached to a first example bracket 204. Specifically, during a second assembly operation (e.g., a second coupling operation) of attaching the housing 202 to the bracket 204, the housing 202 is rotated relative to the bracket 204 to move the protrusion 404 from the enlarged circumferential end 310 into the slot 312 of the aperture 306. In some examples, the enlarged circumferential end 310 includes a recess 702 to guide the protrusion 404 into the slot 312 in response to rotation.

[0042] To fix the relative positions of the housing 202 and the bracket 204, the protrusion 404 forms an interference fit and / or transition fit with the bracket 204. When the protrusion 404 moves into the slot 312, the third portion 506 of the protrusion 404 ( Figure 5 The third portion 506 of the protrusion 404 contacts the second surface 704 of the housing 204. Specifically, the distance between the third portion 506 of the protrusion 404 and the housing surface 402 can be less than the thickness of the support 204 defined between the first surface 314 and the second surface 704. Therefore, the contact between the third portion 506 of the protrusion 404 and the second surface 704 of the support 204 can form an interference fit (e.g., a first interference fit) and / or a transition fit (e.g., a first transition fit).

[0043] Additionally, in some examples, the opposing sides 706, 708 of the slot 312 contact the first segment 510 and the second segment 512 of the first portion 502 of the protrusion 404. In some such examples, when the opposing sides 706, 708 of the slot 312 apply a compressive force to the first portion 502 in response to it moving into the slot 312, the slit 508 allows the first segment 510 and the second segment 512 of the first portion 502 of the protrusion 404 to move closer together (e.g., reduce the size of the slit 508). That is, before the first portion 502 moves into the slot 312, the first portion 502 of the protrusion 404 may have a width greater than the second width W2, and when the first portion 502 moves into the slot 312, the opposing sides 706, 708 of the slot 312 can compress the first portion 502 to the second width W2. Therefore, the slot 312 and the first portion 502 of the protrusion 404 can form another interference fit (e.g., a second interference fit) and / or another transition fit (e.g., a second transition fit) to increase the connection strength between the housing 202 and the bracket 204.

[0044] Furthermore, when the housing 202 rotates relative to the bracket 204 during the second assembly operation, the bracket 204 presses the spring-loaded pin 406 into the housing 202. Specifically, the tapered side surface 412 contacts the end 710 of the slot 312 opposite the enlarged circumferential end 310. Therefore, the tapered side surface 412 slides against the end 710 of the slot 312, which pushes the spring-loaded pin 406 into the housing 202 (e.g., below the bracket 204). When rotation aligns the spring-loaded pin 406 with the hole 308, the spring-loaded pin 406 extends at least partially through the hole 308 to help secure the housing 202 and the bracket 204 in a predetermined position.

[0045] Despite the combination Figures 2 to 4 The 204 stent was discussed, but Figure 7 And related discussions also apply. Figure 6The second example bracket 602 differs from the first example bracket 204 only in that, after the first assembly operation, the spring-loaded pin 406 begins below the second example bracket 602. Therefore, for the second example bracket 602, the spring-loaded pin 406 does not slide from its initial position in the slot 312 below the bracket 204 before entering the hole 308 between the first and second assembly operations. Instead, as a result of the first assembly operation, the bracket 602 presses the spring-loaded pin 406 into the housing 202.

[0046] Figure 8 It is possible Figure 1 Separate views of a second example housing 802 and a third example bracket 804 implemented in a vehicle system 100. Specifically, the bracket 804 can be fixed to the steering column assembly 102 and coupled to the housing 802, which is Figure 1 An example embodiment of the housing 106. For example, a bracket 804 may be fixedly coupled to the steering column sleeve 112 and extend radially outward from the steering column sleeve. Figure 8 In the example shown, the bracket 804 and the housing 802 are shown in a first assembled position. The housing 802 is translated relative to the bracket 804 to obtain... Figure 8 The first assembly position.

[0047] Figure 9 This is a detached view of the housing 802 connected to the bracket 804. The housing 802 is positioned relative to the bracket 804 from... Figure 8 The first assembly position rotated to Figure 9 In the second assembly position, the housing 802 is connected to the bracket 804, as discussed in further detail below.

[0048] Figure 10 yes Figures 8 to 9 A split view of the bracket 804. The bracket 804 includes an inner periphery 1002 and an outer periphery 1004, an aperture 1006, and a hole 308. In this example, the aperture 1006 is a notch (e.g., an insertion notch) defined in the outer periphery 1004. Therefore, the bracket 804 may have a first radius extending from the aperture 1006 to the outer periphery 1004 and a second radius greater than the first radius, the second radius extending to a portion of the outer periphery 1004 that is not aligned with the aperture 1006.

[0049] Figure 11 This is a detached view of housing 802. Housing 802 includes a surface 1102 and a protrusion 1104 extending from the surface 1102. Additionally, housing 802 includes a spring-loaded pin 406 defined in the surface 1102, a tubular surface 418, a radial protrusion 422, and a bore 420 in which a portion of the steering column assembly 102 is positioned.

[0050] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a protrusion 1104 extending from surface 1102 of housing 802. Protrusion 1104 includes a first portion 1106, a second portion 1108, and a third portion 1110. The first portion 1106 is attached to and extends from surface 1102. For example, the first portion 1106 may extend from surface 1102 in a direction perpendicular to surface 1102. The second portion 1108 extends from the first portion 1106. For example, the second portion 1108 may extend from the first portion 1106 in a direction perpendicular to the first portion 1106. In this example, the second portion 1108 extends from the first portion 1106 toward the hole 420 (e.g., radially inward). The third portion 1110 extends from the second portion 1108 toward surface 1102.

[0051] In some examples, the second portion 1108 extends from the first portion 1106 at an angle, which positions the second portion 1108 closer to the surface 1102 as the distance from the first portion 1106 increases. In such examples, the protrusion 1104 may not include the third portion 1110.

[0052] Return to Figure 8 In the example shown, in a first assembled position, the bracket 804 is positioned abutting (e.g., contacting) the surface 1102 of the housing 802. The protrusion 1104 is aligned with the aperture 1006 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 1102. Therefore, the bracket 804 can be translated past the protrusion 1104 to contact the surface 1102. Furthermore, in Figure 8 In the first assembly position, bracket 804 will hold spring-loaded pin 406 ( Figure 11 It is pressed into the housing 802.

[0053] From the housing 802 relative to the bracket 804 Figure 8 The first assembly position rotated to Figure 9 After the second assembly position, the protrusion 1104 presses the bracket 804 against the surface 1102 to form an interference fit and / or transition fit. Specifically, the second portion 1108 and the third portion 1110 of the protrusion 1104 ( Figures 11 to 12 The third portion 1110 is positioned between the inner periphery 1002 and the outer periphery 1004 in a direction perpendicular to surface 1102. For this purpose, the third portion 1110 contacts the bracket 804 and presses the bracket 804 against surface 1102 to form an interference fit and / or transition fit. The first portion 1106 of the protrusion 1104 is positioned outside the outer periphery 1004 (e.g., radially outward). In some examples, the first portion 1106 contacts the outer periphery 1004 of the bracket 804 to form another interference fit and / or transition fit between the housing 802 and the bracket 804. Additionally, when the housing 802 rotates relative to the bracket 804... Figure 9 After the second assembly position, the spring-loaded pin 406 protrudes into the hole 308 to help secure the relative positions of the housing 802 and the bracket 804. When the housing 802 is engaged with the bracket 804, the steering column assembly 102 extends through the hole 420, and the radial protrusion 422 ( Figure 11 Contact the steering column sleeve 112 to prevent or otherwise reduce its radial movement.

[0054] Figure 13 It is possible Figure 1 Separate views of a third example housing 1302 and a fourth example bracket 1304 implemented in the vehicle system 100. Specifically, the bracket 1304 can be fixed to... Figure 1 The steering column assembly 102 is connected to the housing 1302, which is Figure 1 Example implementation of housing 106. For example, bracket 1304 can be fixedly connected to... Figure 1 The steering column sleeve 112 extends radially outward from the steering column sleeve.

[0055] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A detached view of the bracket 1304. The bracket 1304 includes an inner periphery 1402, an outer periphery 1404, an aperture 1406, and a hole 308. In this example, the aperture 1406 is defined between the inner periphery 1402 and the outer periphery 1404, similar to the hole 308.

[0056] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A detached view of the housing 1302. The housing 1302 includes a surface 1502, a protrusion 1504 extending from the surface 1502, a spring-loaded pin 406 defined in the surface 1502, a tubular surface 418, a hole 420, and a radial protrusion 422.

[0057] Figure 16This is a perspective view of a protrusion 1504 extending from surface 1502 of housing 1302. Protrusion 1504 includes a first portion 1602 (e.g., a fixed portion, a fixed side), a second portion 1604 (e.g., a movable portion, a movable side), and a third portion 1606. The first portion 1602 is fixed to and extends from surface 1502. For example, the first portion 1602 may extend from surface 1502 in a direction perpendicular to surface 1502. The second portion 1604 extends from the first portion 1602. For example, the second portion 1604 may extend from the first portion 1602 toward surface 1502. The end 1608 of the second portion 1604 closest to surface 1502 is separated from surface 1502 to allow the second portion 1604 to move relative to (e.g., toward) the first portion 1602. Specifically, the distance from end 1608 to surface 1502 is less than the thickness of support 1304.

[0058] A third portion 1606 of the protrusion 1504 extends from the second portion 1604. Specifically, in this example, the third portion 1606 extends in a direction away from the first portion 1602 and at least partially parallel to the surface 1502. The third portion 1606 is positioned further away from the surface 1502 than the end portion 1608. The third portion 1606 includes a first side 1610 (e.g., a first surface) and a second side 1612 (e.g., a second surface). The first side 1610 faces the surface 1502. The second side 1612 is angled and faces away from the surface 1502. Specifically, the third portion 1606 includes a tapered shape (e.g., a tapered surface) to increase the distance the third portion 1606 extends from the second portion 1604 as the distance from the surface 1502 decreases.

[0059] exist Figures 13 to 16In the illustrated example, during assembly, housing 1302 is translated relative to bracket 1304 to attach housing 1302 to bracket 1304. Specifically, orifice 1406 aligns with and receives protrusion 1504 during translation. Additionally, as bracket 1304 approaches surface 1502, the surface of bracket 1304 contacts the second side 1612 of the third portion 1606 of protrusion 1504. The tapering in the second side 1612 allows bracket 1304 to push the second portion 1604 of protrusion 1504 toward the first portion 1602, thereby allowing bracket 1304 to move past the third portion 1606. After bracket 1304 has moved past the second side 1612 and contacted surface 1502, biasing of protrusion 1504 causes the second portion 1604 to move away from the first portion 1602 (e.g., toward its original unbiased position). Therefore, the third portion 1606 is positioned above bracket 1304. Specifically, the first surface (not shown) of the bracket 1304 contacts the surface 1502 of the housing 1302, and the second surface 1614 of the bracket 1304 contacts the first side 1610 of the third portion 1606 of the protrusion 1504. The distance between the first side 1610 of the third portion 1606 and the surface 1502 of the housing 1302 is approximately equal to the thickness of the bracket 1304, so that the third portion 1606 can maintain the position of the bracket 1304 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 1502. For this purpose, the third portion 1606 of the protrusion 1504 and the bracket 1304 form an interference fit and / or a transition fit.

[0060] Furthermore, the second portion 1604 of the protrusion 1504 between the end 1608 and the third portion 1606 contacts and presses against the bracket 1304 (e.g., against the inner radial surface 1616 of the orifice 1406). Additionally, the first portion 1602 of the protrusion 1504 may contact the bracket 1304 (e.g., at the outer radial surface 1618 of the orifice 1406) to help stabilize the position of the bracket 1304 relative to the housing 1302. Furthermore, a spring-loaded pin 406 protrudes into the hole 308 to help secure the relative position of the housing 1302 and the bracket 1304. Additionally, the radial protrusion 422 contacts the steering column sleeve 112 to prevent or otherwise reduce its radial movement within the hole 420.

[0061] Figure 17 It is possible Figure 1 A partial view of a fourth example housing 1702 and a fifth example bracket 1704 implemented in a vehicle system 100. Specifically, the bracket 1704 can be fixed to the steering column assembly 102 and coupled to the housing 1702, which is Figure 1 Example implementation of housing 106. For example, bracket 1704 can be fixedly connected to... Figure 1The steering column sleeve 112 extends radially outward from the steering column sleeve.

[0062] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A detached view of the bracket 1704. The bracket 1704 includes an inner periphery 1802 and an outer periphery 1804.

[0063] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 A fourth example of a housing is shown in a separated view. The housing 1702 includes a surface 1902, a first protrusion 1904 extending from surface 1502, a second protrusion 1906 extending from surface 1502, and a bore 420 therein where a portion of the steering column assembly 102 is located. The first protrusion 1904 includes a first portion 1908 and a second portion 1910. The first portion 1908 is attached to and extends from surface 1902. For example, the first portion 1908 may extend from surface 1902 in a direction perpendicular to surface 1902. The second portion 1910 extends from the first portion 1908. For example, the second portion 1910 may extend from the first portion 1908 in a direction perpendicular to and parallel to surface 1902. The second portion 1910 includes a first side 1912 and a second side 1914. The first side 1912 faces surface 1902. The second portion 1910 includes a tapered shape (e.g., a tapered surface) to increase the distance the second portion 1910 extends from the first portion 1908 as the distance from the surface 1902 decreases. The distance between the first side 1912 and the surface 1902 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 1902 is approximately equal to the thickness of the support 1704. For this purpose, the second portion 1910 of the first protrusion 1904 and the support 1704 can form a transition fit.

[0064] exist Figures 17 to 19 In the illustrated example, housing 1702 is translated relative to bracket 1704 to attach housing 1702 to bracket 1704. During assembly, bracket 1704 contacts a second side 1914 of a second portion 1910 of the first protrusion 1904. As bracket 1704 moves closer to surface 1902, bracket 1704 pushes the second portion 1910 outward, causing the first protrusion 1904 to flex (e.g., experience elastic deformation). As bracket 1704 moves past the second portion 1910 and contacts surface 1902 of housing 1702, the first protrusion 1904 returns to its associated original position. Thus, the second portion 1910 is positioned above bracket 1704. Specifically, a first side 1912 of the second portion contacts a first surface 1916 of bracket 1704, and surface 1902 of housing 1702 contacts a second surface (not shown) of bracket 1704 opposite the first surface 1916.

[0065] The second protrusion 1906 and the first portion 1908 of the first protrusion 1904 contact the outer periphery 1804 of the bracket 1704 to help stabilize the position of the bracket 1704 relative to the housing 1702. The second protrusion 1906 and / or the first portion 1908 of the first protrusion 1904 may form a transition fit and / or interference fit with the bracket 1704 in a direction parallel to the surface 1902. Furthermore, the radial protrusion 422 contacts the steering column sleeve 112 to prevent or otherwise reduce its radial movement within the bore 420.

[0066] "Comprising" and "including" (and all their forms and tenses) are used herein as open-ended terms. Therefore, whenever a claim uses any form of "comprising" or "including" (e.g., including, containing, encompassing, covering, having, etc.) as a preamble or within any kind of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, items, etc., may be present without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or statement. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term in the preamble of a claim, it becomes an open-ended term in the same way that the terms "comprising" and "including" become open-ended terms. The term "and / or," when used, for example, in the form of A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, and C, such as (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, and (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, articles, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, articles, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the implementation or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, etc., the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the implementation or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, etc., the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0067] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a," "an," "first," "second," etc.) do not exclude plurals. As used herein, the term "a" (or "an") object refers to one or more of that object. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple components, elements, or actions may be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that the combination of features is impractical and / or disadvantageous.

[0068] As used in this patent, a statement that any part (e.g., layer, film, region, area, or plate) is located on another part in any way (e.g., positioned on it, situated on it, disposed on it, or formed on it, etc.) indicates that the referenced part is in contact with the other part, or that the referenced part is above the other part, wherein one or more intermediate parts are located between them.

[0069] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, a connection reference (e.g., attachment, coupling, linking, and linking) may include intermediate components between the elements referenced by the connection reference and / or relative movement between these elements. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and / or fixed to each other. As used herein, a statement that any part is “in contact” with another part is defined as meaning that there is no intermediate part between the two parts.

[0070] Unless otherwise specifically stated, descriptors such as “first,” “second,” and “third” as used herein do not in any way impose or otherwise indicate any meaning of priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or sorting, but are merely used as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements for the purpose of understanding the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor “first” may be used to refer to an element in a detailed description, while in the claims, different descriptors such as “second” or “third” may refer to the same element. In such instances, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to clearly identify these elements in the context of the discussion (e.g., within the claims), in which the elements may otherwise share the same name.

[0071] As used herein, “approximately” and “about” modify their subject / value to identify the potential presence of variations that occur in real-world applications. For example, “approximately” and “about” may modify dimensions that may be imprecise due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world defects, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, unless otherwise stated herein, “approximately” and “about” may indicate that such dimensions are within tolerances of + / - 10%.

[0072] As used herein, the “multifunction switch housing” in a vehicle houses the circuitry associated with the operation of turn signals, headlights, windshield wipers, interior lights, washer pumps, cruise control, hazard warning lights, and / or other operations that can be controlled at the steering wheel or on the driver’s side of the dashboard.

[0073] As will be understood from the foregoing, example systems, apparatuses, articles of manufacture, and methods for facilitating the coupling of a housing to a steering column assembly have been disclosed. The examples disclosed herein include a bracket and a housing coupled via at least one interference fit and / or at least one transition fit. The examples disclosed herein minimize or otherwise reduce the amount of space occupied by the bracket, thereby creating more space for other vehicle components and reducing the weight of the steering column support system. Furthermore, the examples disclosed herein eliminate the need for additional parts (e.g., fasteners) for coupling the bracket to the housing. In addition, the examples disclosed herein simplify the operations performed to couple the housing to the bracket and subsequently to the steering column assembly. Specifically, the housing may be coupled to the bracket via a movement consisting only of translation or via a movement consisting of translation and rotation.

[0074] This document discloses example methods and apparatus for coupling a steering column to a housing. Further examples and combinations thereof include the following: Example 1 includes a device comprising: a bracket fixed to a steering column assembly, the bracket including a bracket surface; and a housing including a protrusion extending from a housing surface of the housing, the housing surface facing the same direction as the bracket surface, the protrusion including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface in a first direction, the second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction, the second portion of the protrusion overlapping the bracket surface.

[0075] Example 2 includes the device of Example 1, wherein the housing includes a hole in which the steering column assembly is positioned, and wherein the second portion of the protrusion extends from the first portion toward the steering column assembly.

[0076] Example 3 includes any of the devices in the foregoing examples, wherein the housing includes a radial clearance protrusion that extends from a tubular surface to be positioned around the steering column assembly when the housing is coupled to the bracket, the radial clearance protrusion contacting the steering column assembly.

[0077] Example 4 includes any of the devices in the foregoing examples, wherein the protrusion includes a third portion extending from the second portion toward the support surface.

[0078] Example 5 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein the housing is coupled to the bracket via translation of the housing relative to the bracket.

[0079] Example 6 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein the housing is coupled to the bracket via translation and rotation of the housing relative to the bracket.

[0080] Example 7 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein the housing includes a spring-loaded pin that is positioned in a hole in the bracket when the housing is coupled to the bracket.

[0081] Example 8 includes any of the foregoing examples, wherein the bracket includes an insertion recess defined in the periphery of the bracket, wherein during translation of the housing relative to the bracket, the second portion of the protrusion aligns with the insertion recess.

[0082] Example 9 includes any of the devices in the foregoing examples, wherein after the housing is rotated relative to the support, the second portion of the protrusion is positioned above the support surface.

[0083] Example 10 includes a device comprising: a bracket extending radially outward from a steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a housing coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, the first surface of the bracket contacting the housing surface, and the second surface of the bracket contacting the protrusion.

[0084] Example 11 includes any of the devices in the foregoing examples, wherein the support includes an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and a slot defined between the inner diameter and the outer diameter for receiving the protrusion of the housing.

[0085] Example 12 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein each of the slots includes a circumferential end and a channel extending from the circumferential end, wherein the circumferential end receives one of the protrusions during a first engagement operation, and wherein a portion of one of the protrusions is positioned in the channel after a second engagement operation.

[0086] Example 13 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein the first coupling operation includes translation of the housing relative to the support, and wherein the second coupling operation includes rotation of the housing relative to the support.

[0087] Example 14 includes any of the foregoing examples, wherein each of the protrusions includes a slit separating a first segment and a second segment of the protrusion, and wherein the channel includes a first edge and a second edge, the first edge contacting the first segment and the second edge contacting the second segment.

[0088] Example 15 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein each of the protrusions includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface and the second portion extending from the first portion and contacting the second surface of the bracket, wherein the first portion of the protrusion includes a fixed side and a movable side, and wherein the second portion of the protrusion extends from the movable side away from the fixed side.

[0089] Example 16 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein the second portion of the protrusion includes a tapered surface against which the bracket abuts during connection.

[0090] Example 17 includes any of the devices in the preceding examples, wherein when the bracket is attached to the housing, the tapered surface faces away from the bracket.

[0091] Example 18 includes any of the foregoing examples, wherein each of the protrusions includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface and the second portion extending from the first portion, the bracket including a third surface defining an outer periphery of the bracket, and wherein the first portion of the protrusion contacts the third surface.

[0092] Example 19 includes a vehicle comprising: a steering column assembly including a steering column; a bracket fixedly coupled to the steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a housing coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, the bracket being positioned between the housing surface and the protrusion.

[0093] Example 20 includes any of the vehicles in the foregoing examples, wherein the housing is a multi-function switch housing.

[0094] The appended claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this specific embodiment. While certain example systems, devices, articles of manufacture, and methods have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all systems, devices, articles of manufacture, and methods that fall fully within the scope of the claims of this patent.

[0095] According to the present invention, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: a bracket fixed to a steering column assembly, the bracket including a bracket surface; and a housing including a protrusion extending from a housing surface of the housing, the housing surface and the bracket surface facing the same direction, the protrusion including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface in a first direction, the second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction, the second portion of the protrusion overlapping the bracket surface.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the housing includes a hole in which the steering column assembly is positioned, and wherein the second portion of the protrusion extends from the first portion toward the steering column assembly.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the housing includes a radial clearance protrusion that extends from a tubular surface to be positioned around the steering column assembly when the housing is coupled to the bracket, the radial clearance protrusion contacting the steering column assembly.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the protrusion includes a third portion extending from the second portion toward the surface of the support.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the housing is connected to the support via translation of the housing relative to the support.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the housing is connected to the support via translation and rotation of the housing relative to the support.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the housing includes a spring-loaded pin that is positioned in a hole in the bracket when the housing is attached to the bracket.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the bracket includes an insertion recess defined in the periphery of the bracket, wherein during translation of the housing relative to the bracket, the second portion of the protrusion aligns with the insertion recess.

[0103] According to an embodiment, after the housing is rotated relative to the bracket, the second portion of the protrusion is positioned above the surface of the bracket.

[0104] According to the present invention, a device is provided comprising: a bracket extending radially outward from a steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a housing coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, the first surface of the bracket contacting the housing surface, and the second surface of the bracket contacting the protrusion.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the bracket includes an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and a slot defined between the inner diameter and the outer diameter, the slot being for receiving the protrusion of the housing.

[0106] According to an embodiment, each of the slots includes a circumferential end and a channel extending from the circumferential end, wherein the circumferential end receives one of the protrusions during a first engagement operation, and wherein a portion of the protrusion is positioned in the channel after a second engagement operation.

[0107] According to an embodiment, the first connection operation includes translation of the housing relative to the bracket, and the second connection operation includes rotation of the housing relative to the bracket.

[0108] According to an embodiment, each of the protrusions includes a slit separating a first segment and a second segment of the protrusion, and wherein the channel includes a first edge and a second edge, the first edge contacting the first segment and the second edge contacting the second segment.

[0109] According to an embodiment, each of the protrusions includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface, the second portion extending from the first portion, the second portion contacting the second surface of the bracket, wherein the first portion of the protrusion includes a fixed side and a movable side, wherein the second portion of the protrusion extends from the movable side away from the fixed side.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the second portion of the protrusion includes a tapered surface against which the bracket abuts during connection.

[0111] According to an embodiment, when the bracket is attached to the housing, the conical surface faces away from the bracket.

[0112] According to an embodiment, each of the protrusions includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface and the second portion extending from the first portion, the bracket including a third surface defining an outer periphery of the bracket, and wherein the first portion of the protrusion contacts the third surface.

[0113] According to the present invention, a vehicle is provided having: a steering column assembly including a steering column; a bracket fixedly coupled to the steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a housing coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, the bracket being positioned between the housing surface and the protrusion.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the housing is a multi-functional switch housing.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: A bracket, the bracket being fixed to the steering column assembly, the bracket including a bracket surface; as well as A housing, the housing including a protrusion extending from a housing surface of the housing, the housing surface and the support surface facing the same direction, the protrusion including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending from the housing surface in a first direction, the second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction, the second portion of the protrusion overlapping the support surface.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a hole in which the steering column assembly is positioned, and wherein the second portion of the protrusion extends from the first portion toward the steering column assembly.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the housing includes a radial clearance-reducing protrusion extending from a tubular surface to be positioned around the steering column assembly when the housing is coupled to the bracket, the radial clearance-reducing protrusion contacting the steering column assembly.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the protrusion includes a third portion extending from the second portion toward the support surface.

5. The device of claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the housing is coupled to the support via translation of the housing relative to the support.

6. The device of claim 1 or claim 4, wherein the housing is coupled to the support via translation and rotation of the housing relative to the support.

7. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the housing includes a spring-loaded pin that is positioned in a hole in the bracket when the housing is coupled to the bracket.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the bracket includes an insertion recess defined in the periphery of the bracket, wherein during translation of the housing relative to the bracket, the second portion of the protrusion aligns with the insertion recess.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein after the housing is rotated relative to the support, the second portion of the protrusion is positioned above the surface of the support.

10. The device of claim 1 or claim 9, wherein the second portion of the protrusion contacts the support surface.

11. The device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the housing is a multi-functional switch housing.

12. An apparatus comprising: A bracket extending radially outward from the steering column assembly, the bracket including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; as well as A housing, the housing being coupled to the bracket, the housing including a housing surface and a protrusion extending from the housing surface, a first surface of the bracket contacting the housing surface, and a second surface of the bracket contacting the protrusion.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the support includes an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and a slot defined between the inner diameter and the outer diameter, the slot for receiving the protrusion of the housing.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein each of the slots includes a circumferential end and a passage extending from the circumferential end, wherein the circumferential end receives one of the protrusions during a first coupling operation, and wherein a portion of the one of the protrusions is positioned in the passage after a second coupling operation.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first coupling operation includes a translation of the housing relative to the cradle, and wherein the second coupling operation includes a rotation of the housing relative to the cradle.

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