Steering Column: Description and Operation

NOTE: The NSX/NSX-T has a tilt/telescopic steering column. The tilt/telescopic mechanism makes it possible to adjust the steering wheel in fore and aft, and up and down directions.





TILT MECHANISM
In the upper portion of the steering column is a joint on the steering shaft. This joint allows the steering wheel to be adjusted up or down. When the tilt lever is operated, the lock gears are detached from the column gear to release the lock. The column moves upward or downward on two pivot bolts. When the tilt lever is returned to a fixed position after selecting the steering wheel height, the lock gear is engaged with the column gear to secure the column.





TELESCOPIC MECHANISM
The upper steering shaft is divided into two shafts, connected by splines, making it possible for the shaft to telescope while transmitting the rotation of the steering wheel. When the telescopic lever is lowered, the lever pivot turns in a direction to loosen the stop shim at the tip of the lever pivot, allowing the shaft to telescope. The telescopic stroke is limited by the slot and stop on the movable shaft. After selecting a steering wheel position and locking the telescopic lever, the stop shim presses, against the movable shaft, holding it in position.





ENERGY ABSORPTION

Both the steering column and steering wheel are designed to absorb impact energy during a collision.

Steering Wheel
The steering wheel absorbs the energy of a collision through the deformation of the spoke portion. Should the impact absorbing capacity of the column side decrease due to the deformation of the vehicle body during a collision, the steering wheel will help absorb the impact.

Steering Column
The steering column is fastened on the body through a U-shaped plate, and the lower part of the column is inserted into a lower holder. Due to this construction, the steering column will slide in its axial direction when a large impact is given in the axial direction of the column. Since the U-shaped plate is fastened to the body, the U-shaped plate is bent and deformed along the guide when the column slides in its axial direction. Through the deformation of the plate, the energy is absorbed and the column slides forward. When exposed to a greater impact, a shear pin will break and the energy is absorbed by the lower shaft.