The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 20, 2005
Filed:
Feb. 10, 2004
Paul R. Meernik, Redford, MI (US);
Joseph D. MC Cleary, Clinton Township, Macomb County, MI (US);
Kenneth J. Baron, Sterling Heights, MI (US);
Jenne-tai Wang, Troy, MI (US);
Paul R. Meernik, Redford, MI (US);
Joseph D. Mc Cleary, Clinton Township, Macomb County, MI (US);
Kenneth J. Baron, Sterling Heights, MI (US);
Jenne-Tai Wang, Troy, MI (US);
General Motors Corporation, Detroit, MI (US);
Abstract
An axial positioner capable of yielding to absorb energy under compression or tension loads. The positioner includes an outer tube having first and second ends, a threaded actuator rod extending between the first and second ends and a drive to rotate the actuator rod. A threaded member threadably engaging the actuator rod moves axially between the ends of the outer tube as the actuator rod rotates. The member includes a radial flange extending toward the outer tube. A radially extending load ring spaced axially from the flange is connected to a plurality of axially extending force transmitting elements. A spring positioned between the flange and a load ring expands radially outward against the outer tube when compressed between the flange and the load ring. Loading of the spring against the tube absorbs energy of axial motion of the flange under excessive loads transmitted by the force transmitting elements to the load ring.