Method of improving impact absorbing and deformation control characteristics of vehicle components
US6820924B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 13, 2003 |
| Grant date | Nov 23, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 13, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC21D2221/00
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A crush rail or other structural member of a vehicle is provided with crush triggers. The crush triggers are formed by heating localized areas of the crush rail or other part and allowing them to cool slowly to provide increased ductility and reduced strength in a localized region. The crush rail is designed to collapse in a series of convolutions in a regular and repeated pattern. Crush triggers may be provided on body pillars, steering columns, drive shafts, engine support cradles, and other parts of a vehicle. A plurality of crush triggers may be provided on a single structural member depending upon impact absorption requirements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.