MXPA00008366A - Non-newtonian flow fluid-locking mechanism for vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

An assembly is provided for fixing the position of an adjustable component (22) of a vehicle, comprising in combination a fixed reference frame (20) within the vehicle such as a dash or a firewall, an adjustable component (22) also disposed in the vehicle such as an adjustable steering column (10), pedals, or a seat. Interconnecting the fixed reference frame (20) and the adjustable component (22) is a fluid locking mechanism (50) which permits selective positioning of the adjustable component relative to the fixedreference frame (20) and holds the adjustable component (22) in position. The fluid locking mechanism (50) is preferably a non-Newtonian flow fluid locking mechanism which uses a magneto-rheological fluid (97) to fix the position of the adjustable component (22) in place once the desired position is selected. To provide additional safety for the vehicle occupants, the fluid locking mechanism may be controlled by an electrical microprocessor (556) or circuit which adjusts the locking strength of the fluid locking mechanism (50) based upon user inputs and dynamic events.

Description

MECHANISM OF FIXING WITH FLUX OF NO NE TONIAN FLOW FOR VEHICLES CROSS REFERENCE FOR REFERRED APPLICATIONS This application refers to, and claims to the benefit of, provisional patent application serial numbers 60 / 113,084 filed on December 21, 1998, and 60 / 164,438, presented on November 9, 1999, the specifications of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to devices for adjusting the position of one object with respect to another, and more particularly to a fixing mechanism with fluid to fix the position of one object with respect to another, such as car seats, control pedals, the inclination and telescopic position of a steering column, and the like.

Discussion of Related Art Traditionally, adjustable components in a vehicle have been temporarily fixed in position using mechanical fastening systems. Such systems REF: 121961 includes some insurance, retainer, or similar structure that engages a grooved tooth, or similar structure. This has certainly been the case with adjustable vehicle steering columns. To better accommodate different operators and make it more comfortable to operate the vehicle, articulated and telescopic steering columns, adjustable seats, and more recently, adjustable control pedals, have been developed in such a way that the user orients the controls to positions better accommodated to your needs and personal comfort. The ability to adjust the relative position of a vehicle control element for the operator has been recognized as important in reducing driver fatigue and improving overall control of the vehicle. However, the mechanisms used to provide the adjustment offer only a limited range of positions; they were subject to mechanical failure or wear, and were expensive to manufacture, resulting in higher costs. Also, once the particular control or target was in position, it remained fixed in an accident and presented a danger to the operator. The present invention provides an infinite number of adjustment positions, uses fewer mechanical components than previous devices resulting in lower costs, and allows the repositioning of objects at the time of an accident to reduce the risk of injury or death.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In a broad form of the invention, an apparatus for interconnecting two objects together is provided, which allows the relative position of two objects that are adjusted while the device is in a first state, but sets the relative position of two objects while the device is in a second state. More particularly, the apparatus modeling the invention includes a housing having at least one movable piston therein. Also in the interior of the housing is a non-Newtonian flow fluid passing through at least one passage within the housing. Adjacent to the passage, or in proximity to it, is a device for selectively generating or neutralizing a magnetic field in the area that includes the passage. The fluid within the housing flows through the passage when the magnetic field is weak or absent, allowing the piston to move. When the magnetic field surrounding the passage reaches a predetermined force, the fluid undergoes a change and stops flowing, fixing the relative position of the piston within the housing.

In another form, the apparatus of the embodiment of the invention is used to adjustably fix the relative position of a steering column. The new assembly includes a top housing assembly coupled to a lower housing assembly, in a manner that allows at least one of the upper and lower housing assemblies to articulate and be in a telescopic position with respect to the lower housing assembly. At least one fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid interconnects the upper housing assembly to the lower housing assembly to selectively fix their relative positions. It is contemplated that the apparatus includes a device for generating a magnetic field around at least a portion of the fixation mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid., to selectively activate and deactivate the mechanism of fixation with fluid. In another form of the invention, the fixation mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid includes a cylinder that attaches to one of the upper and lower housing assemblies. A piston mounted to an axle extending from the cylinder and attached to an opposite of the upper and lower housing assemblies is received in slidable engagement within the cylinder. Filled the cylinder and sealed itself, there is a fluid of non-Newtonian flow whose flow characteristics are selectively altered under the influence of a magnetic field. When a magnetic field is absent or weak, the fluid flows allowing the piston to move in the cylinder, and changes the relative position of the upper housing assembly relative to the lower housing assembly. When a magnetic field of predetermined force is presented within the fluid, the fluid flow state is altered, fixing the piston inside the cylinder and thus, the relative position of the housing assembly upper to the lower housing assembly. The mechanisms for generating or neutralizing a magnetic field within the fluid include permanent magnets, electro-magnets, wire coils, or combinations thereof. In yet another form of the invention, it is contemplated that the invention could be used to fix the rotation of the steering column, and acts as an anti-theft vehicle system. The system will not be disabled until the key is inserted or some other system releases the device. Additionally, it is contemplated that the invention could be used to fix the relative position of seats, control pedals, and other objects within a vehicle to properly position the operator in an ergonomic or comfortable position. The advantages provided by the present invention include a method and apparatus for selectively fixing the relative position of one object to another. Examples include changing the angle of inclination and / or longitudinal position of a steering wheel with respect to the steering column. The compact nature of the present invention reduces manufacturing times and costs associated with assembly due to the elimination of complex, secure patterns and grooves, resulting in fewer parts than conventional adjustable steering column assemblies, resulting in higher cost. low. Additionally, the mechanism is easily interfaced with other safety mechanisms to allow repositioning of the vehicle's control components at the time of a crash, to reduce the risk of injury to the operator. The mechanism could be adjusted to absorb some of the impact for the operator to reduce injury, or quickly fall away from the operator to completely reduce the risk of contact. It is contemplated that pre-positioning devices such as pyrotechnic actuators could be used in combination with this invention for the repositioning of vehicle components such as the steering wheel and the steering column at the time of an accident. These and other objects, advantages, purposes and characteristics of the invention will become more evident from a study of the following description, taken in conjunction with the figures described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an application environment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is an elongated elevated view of the invention shown in FIG. 1; FIG 3. It is a bottom plan view of the invention shown in FIG. 2; FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view of one embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 2 and 3; FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 2 and 3; FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of one embodiment of the invention in a telescopic assembly; FIG. 7 is a schematic view of another application of the present invention; FIG. 8 a schematic diagram illustrating a circuit used in combination with the present invention to adjust the characteristics of the invention in response to the specific input; FIG. 9 is an oblique view of an inclined and telescopic steering column employing other embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a high sectional view of the invention shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 11 is an oblique view of one embodiment of the present invention used for the translation of components; and FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view of the invention shown in FIG. eleven; FIG. 13 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of FIG. 12 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES For purposes of the following description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and derivatives of the they will refer to the invention as directed in FIG. 2. However, it will be understood that the invention could assume several alternative orientations, except where the contrary is expressly specified. It will also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the appended drawings, and described in the following specification, are merely examples of embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the specification and any appended claims. The specific dimensions and other physical characteristics that refer to the modalities described herein are not considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. Although the present invention has application to substantially any situation where it is desired to fit one component with respect to another, for simplicity's sake, the following description is made with reference to applications in a vehicle and more to a steering column where it is common to provide movement of rotation (inclined) and / or translation (telescopic) of one component (the steering wheel) with respect to another (the steering column).

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, a steering column assembly 10 is shown mounted on a vehicle 12 such as a truck, wherein a steering wheel 14 is provided at one end, and the opposite end is interconnected to a steering gearbox 16 for the direction of the front wheels of the vehicle. The upper portion of the steering column assembly 10 (FIG 2) includes a lower housing assembly 20 interconnected to the upper housing assembly 22, in a manner that allows for articulation or tilting of the upper housing assembly with respect to the mounting of the housing. lower housing, translation or telescopic movement of the upper housing assembly with respect to the lower housing assembly, or both. In the embodiment shown, the upper housing assembly 22 is pivotally engaged at its lower end 24, by means of bolts 26 to arms 28 of a yoke 30 attached to the upper end 32 of the lower housing 20. The axis of the pivot defined by the bolts 26 is substantially preferably horizontal to provide a limited arc of rotation in a vertical plane. The upper and lower housing assemblies 20 and 22 of the steering column assembly 10 encompass a series of interconnected rotating shafts (not shown), connected at one end to the steering wheel assembly 14 and at an opposite end to a steering gearbox. A universal joint or similar coupling interconnects the axes, to allow the inclined movement of the upper housing 22 with respect to the lower housing 20. A telescopic shaft could be attached to the upper shaft to allow longitudinal adjustment of the steering column assembly 14. The mounting of lower housing 20 generally includes a tubular member 36, preferably made of steel with a collar 38, securely attached to the upper end 32 by assembling welded elements or similar coupling. The arms 28 of a yoke 30 diverge and extend outwardly from a longitudinal axis of the lower housing at a distance sufficient to receive the upper housing 20 therebetween. In general, arched openings 40 are provided at the distal ends of each arm 28 to receive a guide pin 42 attached to the upper housing 22. The guide pins 42 interact with the arched openings 40 to define the tilt limits of the upper housing with respect to the housing lower. In the illustrated embodiment, the arms 28 of the yoke 30 are stamped or otherwise formed from the steel rod in reserve, and have the lower ends welded to the collar 38 to produce a rigid fork connection at the upper end 32 of the yoke 30. lower housing 20. Additional information and alternatives of the nature of the pivot coupling between the upper housing 22 and the lower housing 20, are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,899,487, issued May 11, 1999, the contents of the which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. With respect to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the lower and upper housing assemblies 20 and 22, respectively, are interconnected by means of the fixing mechanism 50, preferably at vertical balance points of the horizontal median line of the steering column assembly, and preferably at a point very far from the pivot port defined by the bolts 26. The upper housing 22 has at least one, and preferably two lugs 52 that extend generally perpendicular to a point near the lower end 24 to define a support. A similar structure extends perpendicular from the tubular member 36 or the collar 38, identified generally by the reference number 54. Attached to the support 52 by a bolt 56, and centered between bearings 58, it is an end of the fixing mechanism 50. The opposite end of the fixing mechanism 50 is pivotally coupled to the support 54.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a fluid fixation mechanism 50 used in combination with the present invention. The fixing mechanism 50 includes the housing or cylinder 66, preferably in the form of a straight circular cylinder closed at the end 78, and having an opening 82 at an opposite end 80 of sufficient diameter to allow passage of the piston shaft 62 through it. The central or intermediate portion 84 of the housing 66 has a reduced intermediate portion (RIP) to create a constriction generally uniformly around the axis 62. The specific dimension of the RIP 84 will vary depending on the diameter of the shaft 62. The RIP 84 essentially divides the housing 66 into two chambers 89 and 90, each containing a respective piston 68 and 70. The pistons 68 and 70 each have a diameter substantially equal to the internal diameter of the respective chambers. O-rings or similarly acting seals 91 could extend around the circumfereof each piston to form an airtight seal with the inner wall 92 of the chambers 89 and 90. A specific volume is defined between the inner surfaces 94 and 96 of the pistons 68 and 70 respectively, and inner wall 92. Disposed within this volume is a non-Newtonian flow fluid 97, such as that described in any of the US Pat. Nos. 5,277,281; 5,284,330; 5,492,312; 5,816,372; and 5,711,746, all assigned to the Lord Corporation, the descriptions of which are incorporated herein by refere The portions of the respective outer chambers of the pistons 68 and 70 could be filled with ambient air that passes through the holes 98, which extend through the end walls 78 and 80. Arranged around the cylinder housing 66 , adjacent to the RIP 84 is a device for generating a magnetic field within the interior of the housing 66, and particularly through the inner diameter of the RIP 84. In one embodiment, the device 84 includes a wire coil 85 operably connected by conductors 86 to an energy source 87. The flow of current through the conductors 86 and coil 85 is controlled by a switch 88 mounted either on the flywheel, or a module mounted on or near the column and possibly activated by a lever . The actual mounting method or location is not important so much that it is reasonably accessible by the operator. In this embodiment, the oppression of the switch 88 interrupts the energy to the coil 85. Alternatively, the device surrounding the RIP 84 could include a divided annular magnet. Each half of the magnet will be coupled to a magnetic link that will move each magnet to or away from the RIP 84 to couple and uncouple the mechanism. In yet another form, permanent magnets could be mounted around the RIP 84 of sufficient shape and size to produce a magnetic field or flow through the interior of the RIP 84. Arranged around the outside of the magnets could be a coil of wire similar to 85 coupled to a circuit by means of conductors. The circuit could be designed in such a way that when activated, the electromagnetic force produced by the coil would oppose the magnetic field produced by the magnets, which cas one another to produce an overexcited region through the RIP 84, and which allows the fluid move between the cameras. All forms of the device are preferably operably connected to a shock detector to interrupt the power supply, uncouple or neutralize the magnets to loosen the mechanism. In this way, a substantial portion of the impact could be absorbed by the mechanism rather than by the occupant. In operation, a branch in the circuit 86 produced by the power supply 87 causes the electromagnet 85 to produce a magnetic field through the non-Newtonian flow fluid in the chambers 86 and 88 and more particularly through the interior of the produced restriction. by the RIP 84 and the intermediate portion of the 62 axis. The field causes the fluid within that region to alter the sufficient state to prevent the fluid from passing through the RIP., and fix the pistons 68 and 70 in place. This magneto-rheological condition firmly fixes the relative position of the axis with respect to the housing, which in turn fixes the relative position of the upper housing 22 with respect to 1 lower housing 20. To change the relative position of the upper housing, the operator presses the switch 88, a lever, or other internal device to interrupt the field through the RIP 84 and which allows the fluid to change state and flow through the defined passages between the RIP 84 and the axis 62. Allowing the pistons moving within the respective chambers, the operator can then change the relative position of the upper housing with respect to the lower housing. The release of the switch 88 restores the magnetic field which in turn then prevents the flow of fluid between the respective chambers. In the case of an electro-magnet, the force required to change the position of the pistons could be varied - in essence fine tuning of the fixing mechanism. The resistance could be varied by loading the volume or size of the passage through which the fluid migrates as the piston moves. Other modifications available include changing the diameter of the pistons, or changing the diameter of the piston passing through the RIP. A change is one of more of these elements produces a change in the amount of force needed to move the piston and join the shaft. FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the fluid attachment mechanism using a piston design 150. The design of a piston includes an axis 162 having a connector 160 at one end that is configured to engage the supports 52 or 54 using the Same type of bearing bolt arrangement described above. The opposite end of the shaft 164 terminates in the piston 168, which could include a coil of wire to form an electromagnet 185. The guides of the coil could extend through a hollow core in the center 163 of the shaft 162 and exit in a port 165 next to connector 160. There conductors 186 are interconnected to switch 188 and a power source 187, which selectively energizes coil 185.

The piston 168 and a portion of the shaft 162 are disposed within a chamber 188 defined by the straight circular cylinder 166. The external diameter of the piston 168 could vary in size from a substantially equal size to the internal diameter of the chamber 188, or be of a smaller size to control the dimension or space between the perimeter of the piston 168 and the inner wall 192 (hereinafter the "perimeter volume") which provides the same function as the previous RIP. The chamber 188 of the housing 166 is filled with the non-Newtonian flow fluid. The entire chamber 166 is preferably sealed including the passage through which the shaft 162 extends to prevent fluid from leaking. Although the simple seals are shown in the drawing of the figure, it is anticipated that a number of redundant seals and bearings could be used to retain the fluid within the chamber 188 and prevent a robust seal. With the two ends of the connector 160 and 174 secured in pivot fashion to the respective supports 52 and 54, and with a lead supplied in the circuit 186 to energize the coil 185, the non-Newtonian fluid is not able to pass between the perimeter of the piston 168 and the inner wall 192, creating a condition where the piston 168 and the shaft 162 are rigidly secured with respect to the cylinder or housing 166. In the selection of the operator and oppression of the switch 188 and interruption of power along the circuit 186, the state of the fluid changes and passes approximately to the periphery of the piston 168 to allow a change of position in the column. Although not shown, it is anticipated that the piston 168 could extend substantially through and fill the interior of the housing cylinder 166. To allow the passage of fluid, the ports could extend through the piston which could be regulated using jets to adjust the flow. resistance. In both embodiments described above, the fixing device is operating in a Coulomb or Bingham fixation, ie, this configuration approximates an ideal fixation in which the generated force is independent of the piston speed and large forces can be generated with low speed or zero. This independence improves the form of control of the fixation, by forcing a force function of the magnetic field, which is a function of the current flow in the circuit or the force of the field produced by an adjacent magnet. In basic terms, the flux or magnetic flux is dependent on several factors in the flow path. The minimum lateral cross-sectional area of the piston head (68, 70 or 168) within the wiring of the coil 185; the minimum lateral cross-sectional area of the magnetically permeable material encountering a magnetic flux return path; and a surface area of the attractive magnetic force of the piston, all have values that are defined in U.S. Pat. No. 5,284, 330. The present invention could also be used to reduce the impact of deceleration of the operator with the steering column at the time of a crash. This is done by interrupting the circuit using a switch operably connected to a shock detector in the vehicle. At the specified limit, the detector interrupts the branch in the circuit, thus deactivating the electromagnet and allowing the steering column to be repositioned. In a preferred embodiment, a pyrotechnic actuator could be attached to the support 52 on the underside of the upper housing 22, whereby at the moment of a collision, the fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid is de-energized and the system Pre-positioning pyrotechnic pushes the steering column down and away from the operator so that the airbag inside the steering wheel expands to more fully absorb any impact. With reference to FIG. 6, a portion of a telescopic steering column assembly 300 is shown comprising a shaft 302 configured at one end 304 to be attached to the steering wheel. The end 303 of the shaft ends in a piston 306 having a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the shaft 302. The piston 306 is coupled to the shaft 302 by means of a neck 308. The piston head 306 and the lower portion of the neck 308 of shaft 302 are received in a cylinder 310 closed by seal 312 to define a fixed volume 314, similar to that defined by the cylinder 166 and the piston 168 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 54. The volume 314 is filled with the non-Newtonian flow fluid 316 to completely cover the piston head 308 and the shaft portion 302 that extends through the seal 312. The cylinder housing 310 could be formed at one end of the cylinder. solid shaft member 318, which forms the remaining portion of the shaft in the upper or lower housing. To avoid rotation of the shaft 302 with respect to the lower shaft 318, grooves could be provided along the interior or upper end of the shaft 318 and above the neck 308. The grooves would allow axial transfer, but would fix the two shafts in a rotary fashion. The respective shafts 310 and 302 are preferably protected with bearings well known in steering technology.

In this configuration, it is anticipated that an electromagnetic coil 320 could be arranged in the outer portion of the upper end of the shaft 318 to create the magnetic flux in the fluid 316 disposed within the chamber 314, sufficient to prohibit the fluid from passing through or around it. of the perimeter of the piston 308. In the alternative, it is contemplated that the shaft 302 could be hollow to provide a passage of conductors to a coil formed within the piston 306 to create the necessary magnetic flux. The circuit used could be similar to that described above and could be used in combination with the shock detectors whereby the relative telescopic position of the shaft 302 could be changed with respect to the lower shaft 318. Still in another embodiment of the invention, the fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid could be used to control the relative height, recline angle of a seat back and seat base; as well as the horizontal position of the seat with respect to the steering wheel. FIG. 7 schematically illustrates several different applications. For example, the base of the seat 400 could be supported on a rail 402 and mounted to a mobile support 404 by means of a plurality of fastening devices generally identified as 406. Furthermore, the angular position of the backrest of the seat 408 could be controlled by means of a fixing device 410 interconnected to the backrest 408 and the base 400. Finally, the horizontal travel of the mobile support could be controlled by a fixing device 412 mounted at one end of the floor or vehicle frame and at the opposite end of the mobile support 404 Just as in the previous embodiments, one or all of these fastening devices 406, 410, and 412 could be used to establish the relative position of the seat components. In addition, pyrotechnic pre-positioning systems could be integrated to change the position of the seat in a crash. - It was briefly mentioned before that the present invention could be used to reduce the impact of the occupant with the steering wheel at the time of a crash. FIG. 8 shows, in schematic form, a montage to achieve that function. In this embodiment, the fastening device 550 includes a coil 552 operably coupled by wires 554 to a controller 556 (CLR) which, in turn, is operably coupled to a ground connection 557 and a power source 559 for the circuit . The controller 556 has a plurality of inputs, including, but not limited to, a tilt adjustment switch 558, a weight sensor 560, a height detector 562, an ignition detector 564, and a shock detector 566.

Additional detectors could include accelerometers to indicate the direction of an impact and a detector to measure the speed of the vehicle. The controller 556 could be a microcircuit, programmable logic controller, microcomputer or other processor capable of using the results provided by several detectors, to determine the necessary current applied on conductors 554 to control the magnetic field strength produced by coil 552. The controller 556 will dynamically change the fixing characteristics according to several inputs so that any impact to the operator is absorbed by the column rather than by the occupant. Furthermore, this same circuit could include a memory circuit for call data on a particular incident, for example, the system could be able to indicate if the operator was traveling at a certain speed, and direction, and if the seat belt was in use. The system could also record the direction and force of impact. All this information would be useful to determine the facts surrounding an accident. This same controller 556 could also include information stored by the operator in the preferred position of the column, the control pedals, the position of the seat and % '* * * • & Similar . FIG. 9 illustrates a steering column assembly 600 which is incorporated in the present invention into a slant column, as well as a telescopic column. The steering column assembly 600 includes a lower housing assembly 602 which is intended to be secured by lugs 604 to a rigidly secured section 606 of the steering column which, in turn, could be attached to the fire wall, board assembly of instruments, or other rigid structure in the vehicle. The interior of the lower housing assembly 602 is designed to receive a telescopic internal housing assembly or shuttle 608. The internal housing assembly or shuttle 608 is configured to slide into the lower housing 602, between an extended or retracted position along the an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lower housing assembly 602. The shuttle 608 could be of a particular shape, received within a correspondingly molded passage formed inside the lower housing assembly with provided surface bearings to allow a smooth transfer of the internal housing with respect to the lower housing. One end 610 of the inner housing extending from the lower housing assembly 602 could be adjusted with a pair of supports 612, each disposed on opposite sides of the internal housing. Each support 612 could be in general L-shaped or dog-foot shape, such that one portion of the leg 614 is securely attached to the end 16 of the inner housing assembly 608, and the other portion of the leg 616 extends in an angle to the leg 614 and generally tangential to the outside of the lower housing assembly 602. Pivot-shaped couplers the ends of the legs 614 could be the lower end 618 of the upper housing assembly 620. The coupling could allow articulated movement of the upper housing assembly 620 with respect to lower housing assembly 602 on a generally horizontal axis and defined by screws 622. For specifics in the engagement between screws and bonded components, the reader refers to U.S. Patent No. 5,899,497 published on May 4, 1999, the specification of which is incorporated herein by reference. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the upper housing assembly 620 also includes a bracket 624 of a predetermined dimension having a plurality of cuts 626 for receiving various gauges. Also extended from the housing 620, near the lower end 16 is a support ear 628. The ear is interconnected to the lower legs 616 of each support 612 by a fixing mechanism with fluid identified by the reference number 630. An illustration More detailed of the fastening mechanism with fluid 630 is made with respect to Figure 10. The fluid fastening mechanism 630 includes a housing 632 having at least one piston 634 slidably disposed therein to define at least two chambers 636 and 638. Extending from the piston is a piston shaft 640, which extends from the housing 632 and terminates in a U-shaped yoke 642. The U-shaped yoke 642 could be pivotally attached to the ear of support 628 by means of one or more screws 644. FIG. 9. The housing 632 is also similarly pivotally joined to the ends of the legs 616 by means of screws 646, which extend through the legs and in the mounting plates 648 formed on the exterior of the housing 632. With the fastening mechanism with fluid 630 in the loosened state, upper housing 620 is allowed to tilt or pivot on the coupling point defined by screw 622. The pivotal couplings provided by screws 644 and 646 allow angular orientation of the fastening mechanism with fluid 630 to vary as the upper housing 620 moves over the pivot point. Referring again to Figure 10, the housing 632 is preferably cylindrical and open at one end 650, to allow the insertion of several components therein. A piston shaft 640 extends through a sealed opening 652 defined at the opposite end 654 of the housing 632. Arranged concentrically in the interior 654 of the housing 632, and spaced inwardly spaced from the inner walls of the housing 632 is an internal sleeve 656, which has an internal diameter approximately equal to the external diameter of the piston 634. The inner sleeve 656 is held in place by means of one or more arms at each end of the housing or from the cap 658 received with the end 650 of the housing 632. The cap 658 is sealed in position using C-clips and conventional seals in the art. The interior of the housing 632, the chambers 636 and 638 and the volume between the inner sleeve 656 and the inner wall 654 of the housing are filled with the non-Newtonian flow fluid 660. The fluid in the chamber 636 is allowed to flow in the chamber 638 through perforations or spaces 662 located at the ends of the sleeve 656, and through the peripheral volume between the sleeve 656 and the inner wall 654. Fluid flow from one chamber to the other could be controlled in a number of ways . Mainly the fluid exchange rate is determined by the size of the smallest opening, defined either by the 662 passages or the cross section of the peripheral passage. The fixing power of the mechanism is controlled substantially with respect to the intensity of the magnetic field or flux through the small areas. In the present invention, a coil is provided that generates an electromagnetic field in the application of a particular current. Alternatively, permanent magnets could be used, the field of these could be neutralized by the application of electromagnetic field. Although the electromagnetic field is described as occurring at one end of the jacket 656, the electromagnetic force or field could occur in other areas of the attachment mechanism to change the flow state of the 660 fluid. For clarity, the type of fluid used in the mechanism of fixation with fluid is substantially similar to the fluid described above, and available from the Lord Corporation. By varying the magnetic flux, the flow characteristic of the fluid 660 is changed. In one state, the fluid is unable to pass through the small perforations 662, essentially trapping the rest of the fluid within the respective chambers, and fixing the relative position of piston 634 inside the housing. In this way, in order to change the relative inclination angle of the upper housing 620 with respect to the lower housing assembly 602, the operator simply removes the electromagnetic field present within the fluid fixing mechanism. Figures 11-13 illustrate another embodiment of the fluid attachment mechanism, particularly as it applies to fix the transfer, or telescopic position of two components - therein. case, the telescopic steering column. Figure 11 schematically illustrates the lower housing assembly 602 in relation to the lower rigid structure 606 and the interconnecting ears 604. Extending longitudinally through the lower housing 602 is an internal tubular member identified by the reference numeral 670, which is it is configured to translate longitudinally with respect to the lower housing 602. For purposes of illustration, the component 670 could be equivalent to the internal housing assembly 608. Extending concentrically through the internal tubular member 670 could be a telescopic shaft 672 which passes to through the bearing 674 and extending a predetermined distance in the tubular member 670. In a preferred embodiment, the shaft portion 672, which extends into the tubular housing 670, is longitudinally fluted. Received longitudinally on the fluted end is a second shaft 676 having a complementary female coupling in shape to the splined end of the shaft 672. The shaft 676 is planned to extend through the opposite end of the tubular member 670 and could be supported by a bearing inside. from end 678 or anywhere along its length. The end 678 of the tubular member 670 could also be configured to be interconnected to the supports such as 612, described above by an adapter member not shown, received at the end. The connecting member for interconnecting the end 678 of the tubular member 670 to the supports 612 could be of sufficient diameter such that the supports 612 are generally parallel and adjacent to the exterior of the housing 602. It is contemplated that the housing 602 could be in general tubular, and substantially closed at one end 678 by an end wall 680. The opposite end 682 could be closed by a movable cap 684. Both the end wall 680 and the cap 684 could have openings or passages defined therein to receive the tubular member 670 therethrough. Conventional seals and ferrules could be provided such as 688 and 690 to provide a fluid tight seal around the tubular member 670. Intermediate in the tubular member 670 could be an electromagnetic coil or magneto 692 sitting in a frame 694, which is held in General in place by fastener rings 696 sitting in slots at each end of the frame 694. In the case of a wire coil mounted on the frame 694, a hole is provided in the frame to allow the ends of the wire to extend through it and through the tubular members 670 for connection to the circuit. To prevent the armature from rotating around the tubular member 670, a bolt, extending from the tubular member, could be provided and received in a groove formed in the underside of the armature to fix the rotation of the armature with respect to the tubular member. . A similar arrangement could be used, if desired, to fix the rotational position of the inner tubular member 270 with respect to the housing 602. Alternatively, the mechanisms of the outer tube 670 could prevent rotation. For example, it is contemplated that each support 612 could have a grooved structure, as suggested by the reference number 695 (Fig. 9) which is assembled and adjusted by means of a cam, as suggested by the reference number. 697 (Fig. 11). Disposed within the housing 602 could be a sleeve 698, which has an outer diameter approximately equal to the internal diameter of the housing 602 and is positioned between the end wall 680 and the cap 684. The internal diameter of the sleeve 698 could vary , but in no case is it smaller than the external diameter of the armature 694 and that of the electromagnetic magnet or coil 692. In a preferred embodiment, the internal diameter of the sleeve 698 is such that there is a small gap of approximately the order of 1 or more. 2 millimeters or less between the external diameter of the armature 694 and the internal diameter of the jacket 698. In this way, there is a narrow passage between the chamber 700 and the chamber 702. The two chambers and the narrow passage, which interconnects the two cameras, is filled with non-Newtonian fluid 704 similar to that described above. When there is an electromagnetic field through the separation between the chambers 700 and 702, the fluid 704 within the gap, and up to a certain degree in each chamber, changes state from a conventional fluid to a more viscous material which is incapable of flow through separation. The particular state of the fluid prevents the exchange of fluid between the respective chambers and thus fixes the armature, and the tubular member 670 in position with respect to the housing 602. When it is neutralized, or removed, the electromagnetic field the non-Newtonian fluid returns to its natural state, and allows flow through the separation of one chamber to the other when the tubular member 670 is moved. To the extent that the shaft 676 also moves with respect to the natural housing 670, the fluted ends 676 and 672 allow the relative telescopic adjustment. In each of the embodiments described above, it is preferred that a ferrous material be used for several components that are substantially adjacent or in close proximity to the magnetic / electromagnetic components. The use of non-ferrous materials avoids the polarization or magnetization of the components that would result in the continuous presence of a magnetic field, thus possibly impacting the function of the fixation mechanism. Acceptable materials would include bronze, aluminum and polar-polar materials. Several changes, alternatives and modifications will become evident for experts in the art that follow a reading of the descriptions already mentioned. For example, although electromagnets have been described, it will be apparent that permanent magnets could be used to provide some or all of the magnetic field. The intensity or strength of the magnetic flux through the fluid could be changed by altering the distance of the magnet from the RIP or cylinder. It is further contemplated that the present invention could be adapted for use in controlling the rotation of a flywheel shaft, or similar structure using a device described in U.S. Patent Numbers 5,492,312; 5,711,746 and 5,816,372 published in the name of the Lord Corporation. With the advent of electrical steering systems, it is also contemplated that these devices could be used to provide adjustable tactile feedback through the steering wheel, to provide the operator with a range of steering control positions. In yet another application, the fixation mechanism could be operably coupled to a force detector located on the steering wheel of the vehicle via a computer. The detector generates a signal that would be processed by the computer to vary the flux in the fixing mechanism during an accident, where the fixing mechanism would accommodate and absorb some of the energy that results from the impact of the occupant with the steering wheel. Finally, a different implementation of the fastening system will include adjusting the relative position of structures such as seats and structures such as instrument panels and the like. It is planned that all changes, alternatives and modifications have come within the scope of the above description which is considered as part of the present invention.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects to which it relates.

Claims (20)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property: 1. An apparatus for selectively fixing a relative position of an adjustable steering column, characterized in that it comprises in combination: a first housing having a lower end; a second housing mounted to the lower end of the first housing, to allow at least one articulated and telescopic position of the first housing with respect to the second housing; and at least one fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid that interconnects the first housing to the second housing, to selectively fix at least one position of the articulated and telescopic of the first housing with respect to the second housing. The apparatus as defined in claim 1, characterized in that it further includes an assembly for selectively changing a magnetic field condition around at least a portion of at least one fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid, to activate and selectively deactivating at least one fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid. The apparatus as defined in claim 2, characterized in that at least one fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid includes: a third housing coupled to one of the first and second housings; at least one piston slidably disposed within the third housing and defining at least one first and second chamber within the third housing; an axis extending from at least one piston and from the third housing, the shaft has one end coupled to an opposite one of the first and second housings; a non-Newtonian flow fluid filling the third housing; and at least one passage within the third housing in fluid communication with at least the first and second chambers, which selectively allows a transfer of the non-Newtonian flow fluid between at least the first and second chambers. The apparatus as defined in claim 3, characterized in that the fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid controls an angle of inclination of the first housing with respect to the second housing. 5. The apparatus as defined in the claim 3, characterized in that the fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid controls a telescopic position of the first housing with respect to the second housing. 6. The apparatus as defined in the claim 4, characterized in that the fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid is outside the first and second housings. The apparatus as defined in claim 5, characterized in that the fixing mechanism with non-Newtonian flow fluid is within at least one of the first and second housings. 8. A mounting for selectively placing a vehicle steering wheel, characterized in that it comprises in combination: a fixed reference frame-an adjustable steering column; a fluid fixation mechanism that interconnects the fixed reference frame and the adjustable steering column. 9. The assembly as defined in claim 8, characterized in that the fixed reference frame includes at least one of a panel, a floor board, a vehicle frame, a bracket, a strut, and a lower housing of the steering column adjustable The assembly as defined in claim 8, characterized in that the mechanism for fixing with fluid includes: a housing; at least one piston slidably disposed within the housing and defining at least two chambers; a piston shaft extending from the piston and leaving the housing; a fluid within the housing and in communication with at least two chambers by means of at least one passage; and a device for selectively charging a magnetic field condition through at least one passage; wherein one of the housing and the piston shaft is attached to the fixed reference frame and one opposite the axis of the piston and the housing is attached to the adjustable control component. 11. The assembly as defined in the claim 8, characterized in that it further includes an operably coupled assembly for sending the fluid fixation mechanism to control the fluid fixation mechanism based on a plurality of data entries remotely located from the fluid fixation mechanism. 12. The assembly as defined in the claim 9, characterized in that the adjustable steering column includes an upper housing connected in the form of a pivot to the lower housing. 13. A method for selectively positioning an adjustable steering column with respect to a vehicle, characterized in that it comprises in combination: providing a stationary reference frame in the vehicle; providing an adjustable steering column close to the stationary reference frame; and interconnecting the adjustable steering column to the stationary reference frame by means of a fluid fixing mechanism; the fluid fixing mechanism allows adjustment of the adjustable steering column with respect to the stationary reference frame in a first state, and fixation of the adjustable steering column at a selected position with respect to the stationary reference frame in a second state . 14. The method as defined in the claim 13, characterized in that it also includes the steps of controlling the mechanism of fixation with fluid based on inputs of a plurality of detectors inside the vehicle. 15. The method as defined in the claim 13, characterized in that it also includes placing the fixing mechanism with fluid in one of the first and second states, substantially instantaneously, at an entrance of at least one detector inside the vehicle. The method as defined in claim 13, characterized in that the step of providing a stationary reference frame in the vehicle includes selecting a component of the vehicle not intended to move under normal operating conditions, which includes a vehicle instrument panel. , a portion of a vehicle steering column, a vehicle floor board, a vehicle frame and a lower housing of the adjustable steering column. 17. The method as defined in claim 13, characterized in that the step of providing an adjustable component proximate to the stationary reference frame includes: selecting at least one of an inclined steering column and a telescopic steering column. 18. An apparatus for selectively positioning an adjustable steering column, characterized in that it comprises: a fastening mechanism with magneto-rheological fluid having an external housing that slidably receives at least one position therein, a piston rod that is extends from at least one piston and leaves at least one end of the outer housing, a free end of the piston rod connected to one of an upper and lower housing assembly of the steering column, and the outer housing connected to an opposite of the upper and lower housing assemblies. 19. The apparatus as defined in claim 18, characterized in that the adjustable steering column includes an inclined adjustable steering column. The apparatus as defined in claim 18, characterized in that the adjustable steering column includes a telescopic steering column.