Abstract: A steering column includes: a cylindrical member that holds a steering shaft in such a manner as to allow extension and contraction of the steering shaft; a holding member that holds the cylindrical member; a fixture member that is fixed to a vehicle body; a coupling member that couples the fixture member and the holding member; and an energy absorbing member that is partially fixed to the holding member. The coupling member uncouples the fixture member and the holding member when the holding member moves forward for a specified distance in an axial direction. The fixture member has an engaging section arranged at a position where the engaging section is engaged with an engaged section of the energy absorbing member when the holding member moves forward for the specified distance or longer in the axial direction.

Abstract: A steering column includes: a cylindrical member that holds a steering shaft in such a manner as to allow extension and contraction of the steering shaft; a holding member that holds the cylindrical member; a fixture member that is fixed to a vehicle body; a coupling member that couples the fixture member and the holding member; and an energy absorbing member that is partially fixed to the holding member. The coupling member uncouples the fixture member and the holding member when the holding member moves forward for a specified distance in an axial direction. The fixture member has an engaging section arranged at a position where the engaging section is engaged with an engaged section of the energy absorbing member when the holding member moves forward for the specified distance or longer in the axial direction.

Abstract: A steering column device includes: an outer tube in which a high rigidity portion and a low rigidity portion are formed; an inner tube disposed in the outer tube; a tubular retainer disposed between the outer tube and the inner tube; at least three protruding portions formed on an outer peripheral surface of the retainer; and a fastening mechanism that regulates relative movement of the outer tube and the inner tube in an axial direction. The at least three protruding portions include: a first protruding portion and a second protruding portion that are disposed so that a midpoint between the first protruding portion and the second protruding portion in a circumferential direction is offset to the high rigidity portion side from a vertical line; and a third protruding portion that is disposed in a region of the low rigidity portion.

Abstract: An upper bracket for mounting a column to a vehicle body includes a column support portion which is press-fitted on an outer periphery of the column through axial press-fitting action with a predetermined interference between the column and the column support portion. Hence, the column is in relative press-fit relation to the bracket and is normally in pressure contact with the column support portion. Therefore, if a secondary collision exerts an impact force on the column pushing the column in the axial direction, the column is moved as generating strong friction with the column support portion. Accordingly, the impact energy of the secondary collision is attenuated by the friction. Thus, a shock absorbing steering apparatus featuring a simple structure ensuring a stable operation can be provided.

Abstract: In an electric power steering device, an actuator generates steering assistance power in response to torque transmitted by a steering shaft, the outer circumference of which is covered by a torque sensor detecting the torque. The rotation of the actuator is transmitted to the steering shaft by a reduction gear mechanism having a driven gear on the steering shaft, and a driving gear which engages with the driven gear. The torque sensor is disposed between the driven gear and the steering wheel. A housing has a portion which covers the steering shaft between the steering wheel and the torque sensor, and a portion which covers the torque sensor. The housing is formed by plastically deforming a single metal pipe.

Abstract: In an electric power steering device, an actuator generates steering assistance power in response to torque transmitted by a steering shaft, the outer circumference of which is covered by a torque sensor detecting the torque. The rotation of the actuator is transmitted to the steering shaft by a reduction gear mechanism having a driven gear on the steering shaft, and a driving gear which engages with the driven gear. The torque sensor is disposed between the driven gear and the steering wheel. A housing has a portion which covers the steering shaft between the steering wheel and the torque sensor, and a portion which covers the torque sensor. The housing is formed by plastically deforming a single metal pipe.