Compound energy absorption systems for steering columns
US10967900B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 19, 2019 |
| Grant date | Apr 6, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F7/125
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A compound energy absorption system for a steering column may include different first and second energy absorption mechanisms. The first energy absorption mechanism may involve a slide that deforms a deformation strip in a crash event. The second energy absorption mechanism may involve an energy absorbing strap and a carrier, with the energy absorbing strap being configured to bend and/or tear in a crash event. The energy absorbing strap, the carrier, the deformation strip, and the slide may be packaged compactly in series along an inner jacket tube of the steering column such that the carrier and the deformation strip move relative to the slide and a portion of the energy absorbing strap in a crash event. A pyrotechnic switch, a solenoid, or the like may selectively couple or decouple the second energy absorption mechanism depending on the severity or anticipated severity of a crash event.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.