Patents by Inventor Scott D. Laney

Scott D. Laney has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Energy absorbing support system for a vehicle steering mechanism
    Patent number: 6439607
    Abstract: A vehicle steering mechanism can be supported for controlled collapse in crash situations, by constructing the support mechanism as a rigid assembly having a metal die casting as a principal component. The rigid die casting transmits a shock force from the vehicle steering wheel to shearable fasteners that connect the die casting to a mounting structure on the vehicle. Undesired resilience or spring in the steering shaft support mechanism is eliminated, such that the system has a desired predictability in frontal crash situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignees: DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Applied Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mirjana Jurik, Peter Escobedo, Jr., Thomas Dziegielewski, Scott D Laney, John M Stoiber
  • Steering column with lubricated isolator pad
    Patent number: 6415680
    Abstract: The present invention provides a way in which the coefficient of friction between the steering column and the instrument panel may be lessened when an isolator pad is used. The reduction in friction is accomplished by impregnating the isolator pad with a lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Mirjana Jurik, Rodney L Eaton, Thomas Dziegielewski, Scott D Laney, Kurt E Hofmeister
  • Telescoping steering column and bracket
    Patent number: 6364357
    Abstract: A telescoping steering column is provided with a simple means to allow ease of movement of a telescoping steering shaft through a plurality of positions. This is accomplished by placing a biasing component on an exterior of a movable portion of the steering column to bias the movement of that portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: DaimlerChyrsler Corporation
    Inventors: Mirjana Jurik, Thomas Dziegielewski, Scott D Laney, John M Stoiber, Kurt E Hofmeister
  • Steering column mounting bracket with pull loops
    Patent number: 6170873
    Abstract: Apparatus for supporting a steering column of an automotive vehicle includes a mounting bracket secured to the steering column. Upper fasteners rigidly secured to vehicle support structure extend through longitudinally extending upper slots in the mounting bracket. Lower fasteners rigidly secured to the vehicle support structure extend through longitudinally extending lower slots in the mounting bracket. The connection of the fasteners in the slots of the mounting bracket releases in response to longitudinal collapse of the steering column in a frontal impact. The vehicle support structure overlies the mounting bracket to resist upward displacement of the mounting bracket when the steering column collapses. Pull loop assemblies are associated with the lower fasteners. Each pull loop assembly includes a generally U-shaped strap of flexible, bendable material having a first leg connected to one of the lower fasteners. Each strap has a second leg which is unattached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Mirjana Jurik, Rodney L. Eaton, Kurt E. Hofmeister, Scott D. Laney, David S. Miller