FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to steering columns, including stowable steering column assemblies for motor vehicles.

BACKGROUND

A steering column is generally a supported shaft that connects a steering wheel to a gear unit that in turn causes steering wheels of a vehicle to turn in response to user input or system input. Steering columns typically use mechanical systems, hydraulic systems, electromechanical steering systems, and/or steer-by-wire systems, for example. Engineers and vehicle designers have improved the ergonomics of vehicles by providing adjustable steering columns with manual or motorized tilting and telescoping adjustability to increase fitting options for automotive vehicle users and to allow easy ingress and egress. In short, it is increasingly desirable to provide more ways to address the comfort of users. A need exists, therefore, to provide steering columns that enhance vehicle user comfort, convenience, and safety.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure contemplates a vehicle steering column that includes a support assembly that comprises a housing. A steering spindle jacket may be disposed within the housing. The steering spindle jacket is movable axially within the housing. An outer steering spindle may be disposed at least in part within the steering spindle jacket. The outer steering spindle is configured to attach to a steering wheel at a proximal end thereof and includes a spline hub portion opposite the proximal end. An inner steering spindle may be disposed at least partially within the outer steering spindle. The inner steering spindle may include a spline shaft portion shaped and sized to permit axial movement and prevent rotation of the outer steering spindle relative to the inner steering spindle when the spline hub portion and the spline shaft portion are engaged. In a deployed (or “non-stowed”) state of the steering column, which may encompass a range of operable steering wheel positions according to user preference, the spline shaft portion of the inner steering spindle and the spline hub portion of the outer steering spindle are engaged. Conversely, in a stowed state of the steering column, the spline shaft portion and the spline hub portion are free of engagement.

In other aspects of the disclosure, the outer steering spindle may include an expanded portion that is sized and shaped to receive the spline shaft portion of the inner steering spindle when the steering column is in the stowed state. The expanded portion of the outer steering spindle may have an inner diameter that is greater than an outer diameter of the spline shaft portion. The expanded portion may be proximal relative to the spline hub portion. The spline shaft hub may include internal toothing and at least one external groove or ridge. In some examples, the spline shaft hub may include numerous external grooves or ridges. Further, the steering spindle jacket may be movable axially within the housing. The outer steering spindle may be configured to move axially with the steering spindle jacket, although the outer steering spindle may be configured to rotate within the steering spindle jacket. Finally, the housing of the support assembly may include a base that engages with the spline hub portion in the stowed state to prevent rotation of the outer steering spindle and hence the steering wheel in the stowed state.

