United Technologies Automotive Inc.

Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc.

Ut Automotive Dearborn, Inc.

Gary J Kopacz

Jeffrey A Branch

Mark T Lecznar

Michael J Tscherne

Laverne R Newman

La Verne Newman

The present invention teaches an integrated steering system for use with a directional control system and an electronic control system for controlling an engine and a first and a second feature. The integrated steering system comprises an integrated ignition system and a multifunction switch. The integrated ignition system comprises a lock having a key, an ignition, and a microcomputer for coupling the ignition with the electronic control system if the lock is enabled by the key, and for preventing the ignition from being coupled with the electronic control system if the lock is disabled by the key. Moreover, the multifunction switch is coupled with the microcomputer for enabling and disabling the first and second features such that the microcomputer controls the first and second features in response to the multifunction switch.

Integrated steering system

An improved steering wheel assembly includes an integrated switch housing that includes the stalk switch for the vehicle, and further provides the fixed housing for a clock spring. The integrated switch housing reduces the overall size and length of the switches adjacent the steering wheel. Moreover, the integrated switch housing is preferably used with a modular steering wheel and air bag combination that is attached to the wheel after pre-assembly of the modular units. Locking structure ensures there is no relative rotation between the clock spring rotating plate, the clock spring fixed housing, and the modular steering wheel combination until the entire assembly is mounted to the steering column. The combined integrated modular assembly allows testing of all electrical connections prior to mounting the combined assembly to the vehicle.

Modular steering wheel assembly with integrated switch housing

Growing community of inventors

Dearborn Heights, MI, United States of America

Gary J Kopacz