Modular steering column assembly

摘要

A steering column assembly includes a modular plug-in characteristic. A receiver (20) is rigidly secured on a vehicle cross-car beam (21). A modular main housing assembly (10) is slidably received by the receiver (20). Docking of electrical and mechanical connectors occurs as the modular main housing assembly (10) is inserted into the receiver. A lower steering column shaft portion (34) is supported within the receiver (20). The modular main housing assembly (10) includes an upper steering column shaft portion (54) for mating with the lower steering column shaft portion (34). The modular main housing assembly (10) is installed in the receiver (20) at any stage in a vehicle assembly after the instrument panel is installed.