Support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle, cross brace, modular system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a support device (1) for a steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising a base structure (2) which has a transverse structural element (3), two side structural elements (6, 7) spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction (4) of the vehicle and projecting downwards from the transverse structural element (3) in the vertical direction (5) of the vehicle, and at least one fastening area (9) which is to be held on the support device (1) via the steering column, wherein each side structural element (6, 7) has a respective connection point (14, 15) to which a crossbar (16) formed separately from the base structure (2) and arranged further down in the vertical direction (5) of the vehicle can be attached, whereby the side structural elements (6, 7) can be connected to each other via the crossbar (16).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle according to claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a cross brace for such a support device according to claim 8, a modular system for manufacturing at least two variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle according to claim 9, and a method for manufacturing at least two variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle according to claim 10.

[0002] EP 0 245 612 B1 discloses a steering column mounting for a motor vehicle, with an energy-absorbing deformation element arranged between a steering console held on the body side and a steering guard tube, and held in a bracket of the steering guard tube having elongated holes and connected to the steering console via bolts projecting through the elongated holes, wherein the deformation element consists of a plate connected to the bracket.

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle, a cross brace for such a support device, a modular system for manufacturing at least two construction variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle, and a method for manufacturing at least two construction variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle, so that different construction variants of the support device can be manufactured with particularly little effort.

[0004] This problem is solved according to the invention by a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle with the features of claim 1, by a cross brace for a support device with the features of claim 8, by a modular system for manufacturing at least two structural variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle with the features of claim 9, and by a method for manufacturing at least two structural variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle with the features of claim 10. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

[0005] A first aspect of the invention relates to a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle is, for example, a passenger car. Preferably, the motor vehicle, particularly in its fully manufactured state, has the support device, and in particular the steering column.

[0006] The term "support device for a steering column" can be understood to mean, in particular, that the support device is designed or intended for holding or securing the steering column. Furthermore, the term "support device" can also refer to a support structure specifically designed for or securing the steering column.

[0007] In particular, a steering handle of the motor vehicle, arranged or to be arranged in an interior of the motor vehicle, can be coupled or connected via the steering column to at least one steering gear of the motor vehicle, in particular in a torque-transmitting manner, whereby the steering handle can be coupled or connected, for example via the steering column and the steering gear, to at least one wheel of the motor vehicle, in particular in a torque-transmitting manner. The term "wheel" can be understood to mean, in particular, a ground contact element of the motor vehicle. Preferably, the motor vehicle can be supported or is supported on a surface or roadway via the at least one wheel. The steering column has, for example, at least one steering column element, which can be rotatable about an axis of rotation, in particular relative to the support structure. This steering column element can be understood to be, in particular, a shaft, which can be referred to as a steering shaft.The aforementioned coupling is preferably achieved via this steering column element. When the steering handle is rotated about its axis of rotation, particularly manually, the steering column element preferably rotates about the same axis, thereby pivoting the vehicle wheel about a wheel pivot axis to effect changes of direction and / or cornering of the vehicle. This allows the vehicle to be steered, particularly by the driver. The steering handle is, for example, designed as a steering wheel. The steering column, for example, has at least one housing element by which the steering column, and in particular the steering element, can be attached to the support structure so as to be rotatable about its axis of rotation relative to the support structure. Thus, the steering column is, for example, designed as a steering column module, which in particular comprises at least the steering column element and the housing element.

[0008] The support structure has a basic structure, which can be referred to as the basic support structure. The basic structure has at least one transverse structural element, which extends, for example, and in particular at least substantially, in the transverse direction of the vehicle, especially when the support structure is installed in the vehicle. The support structure is installed, for example, in the interior of the vehicle. The interior, which can be referred to as the vehicle interior or cockpit, can in particular be understood to be a passenger compartment or passenger space.

[0009] Furthermore, the basic structure comprises at least two side structure elements, which, particularly when the support device is installed in the motor vehicle or in the interior, are spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the vehicle and project downwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle, in particular at least indirectly or directly, from the transverse structure element. In other words, the side structure elements connect to the transverse structure element, particularly downwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle, at least indirectly, for example directly, with the side structure elements extending in particular obliquely or perpendicularly to the transverse structure element.

[0010] Furthermore, the support device has at least one mounting area by which the steering column, i.e., for example, the steering column element, is held or secured to the support device, in particular at least indirectly or directly, via the housing element. In other words, the steering column can be attached or is attached to the support device via the mounting area. This attachment, which is effected in particular via the aforementioned housing element, allows, in particular, the aforementioned rotation of the steering column element about the axis of rotation.

[0011] For example, the support device has at least one retaining device by which the support device is held or is held to at least one component of the motor vehicle. The component is, for example, a body panel, that is, a part of the motor vehicle's body, particularly a unibody construction. The support device can thus be fixed in the motor vehicle, particularly in the interior, thereby holding or fixing the steering column in the motor vehicle, particularly in the interior, via the support device.

[0012] To enable the efficient production of different structural variants of the support structure, particularly for the motor vehicle, each side structural element has at least one attachment point. This means that a first side structural element has at least one attachment point, and the second side structural element has at least one second attachment point, which is spaced apart from the first. A cross brace, separate from the base structure and positioned lower than the steering column in the vehicle's vertical direction, can be attached or fastened to each attachment point. This means that the cross brace can be attached or fastened, for example, at least indirectly or directly, to both the first and second attachment points.In other words, the cross brace can be attached or fastened to the respective side structural element via the respective connection point, in particular at least indirectly or directly. Put another way, the cross brace can be connected or fastened to the respective side structural element at the respective connection point, in particular at least indirectly or directly. This allows the side structural elements to be connected or fastened to each other via the cross brace, in particular bypassing or avoiding the cross structural element. In other words, the side structural elements can be coupled or fastened to each other, in particular mechanically, via the cross brace, which is attached to the respective side structural element via the respective connection point. The coupling is in particular a force-transmitting and / or torque-transmitting coupling. The cross brace is, for example, designed as a tension-compression member.In particular, the cross brace extends at least in some areas further downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction than the steering column, which is held or attached to the support structure, especially via the mounting area, so that the steering column is covered at least in some areas downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction by the cross brace.

[0013] The invention is based in particular on the following insights and considerations: The challenges of product development in the vehicle cockpit can become increasingly complex. For example, it is necessary to accommodate and support different cockpit component combinations with virtually identical basic components. It is particularly important to ensure that a basic variant is not burdened with unnecessary optional equipment costs if these are not required. Otherwise, for example, the stringent weight, cost, and / or CO2 targets of the basic variant cannot be met. Known cockpit structures, for instance, usually have different designs or variants, which can then be delivered to the vehicle production plant in appropriate configurations, for example, in transport racks.A large number of support structure variants, meaning different construction versions of the support system, can require a particularly large staging area at installation points in the vehicle plant. Often, these staging areas cannot be provided in sufficient size. Possible support structure variants that could be provided, for example, on an IMC line, especially a pre-assembly line, include basic variants for left- and right-hand drive versions of the vehicle, as well as head-up display variants, each in left- and right-hand drive configurations. IMC stands for Integration Module Cockpit. Further increasing the number of support system variants may not be possible in many vehicle production plants or would only be feasible with exceptionally high costs.The available space, for example on which transport racks are located, is particularly limited and often cannot be expanded. For this reason, it is advantageous to keep the number of support structure variants to a minimum. Furthermore, a particularly heavy steering column, for example, can only be integrated into the interior to a limited extent if, for instance, support structures cannot provide the necessary rigidity.

[0014] In contrast, the aforementioned disadvantages can be avoided by means of the support device according to the invention. The support device, particularly the base structure, can be stiffened by means of the cross brace, which is designed especially as an add-on component, so that, for example, stiffness requirements for the heavy steering column can be met. Thus, a connection in the transverse direction between the side structure elements, designed, for example, as a tension and / or compression connection, can be enabled by means of the cross brace below the mounting area, also referred to as the steering column connection. This connection can, for example, be designed as a tension and / or compression connection, and can particularly improve the support of the particularly heavy steering column. Furthermore, the base structure can be used across different design variants, whereas the cross brace can, for example, only be used in a design variant specific to that variant.Thus, for example, a first design variant of the support structure, particularly of the vehicle, can include the base structure and the cross brace, while a second design variant, different from the first, can, for example, consist solely of the base structure and the cross brace, making the second design variant, in particular, free of the cross brace. The first design variant can therefore be used, for example, for the heavy or particularly heavy steering column, whereas the second design variant can be used, for example, for a lighter steering column compared to the heavy one. This allows the design variants to be manufactured with minimal effort. Furthermore, the aforementioned number of variants can be kept to a very low level.Overall, it is evident that the support structure allows for the creation of a variable support system for different steering columns. The geometric design of the support structure makes it possible, in particular, for a basic version of the support structure—that is, the aforementioned basic structure—to combine it with one or more additional structural components, especially the cross brace, to create a significantly stiffer support system. This system can, for example, accommodate a considerably heavier steering column variant that is more complex due to vibration damping requirements. The design of the support structure, especially the cross brace, allows the basic structure to be upgraded to a higher-quality, optional support structure variant almost as soon as the final assembly step. This avoids additional logistical effort, particularly early in the manufacturing process of the support structure.Necessary additional expenses and provision areas for complex support structure variants in logistics can be reduced to a minimum, thereby achieving, for example, cost reduction or cost savings.

[0015] To enable the various construction variants to be manufactured with minimal effort, a further embodiment provides that the cross brace can be screwed, bolted, or welded to the respective side structural element at each connection point, in particular at least indirectly or directly. This means that the cross brace can be screwed, bolted, or welded to the first side structural element at the first connection point, and that the cross brace can be screwed, bolted, or welded to the second side structural element at the second connection point. In other words, each connection point is designed as a screw point, which, for example, has at least one through-hole intended for screwing.Alternatively, the respective connection point is designed as a weld point, specifically a spot weld. The cross brace can thus be designed as a bolted or screwed assembly component, or as a welded or welded component. Bolting allows the cross brace to be connected to the side structural elements in a particularly efficient manner, especially depending on the specific design variant, as is the case with the first design variant. Furthermore, the bolting capability allows for a particularly efficient connection of the cross brace, meaning that, in particular, connecting the cross brace to the side structural elements, can be omitted without requiring any structural modifications to the base structure. The same applies to welding or the weldability of the cross brace.Furthermore, welding the cross brace allows it to be firmly connected to the side structure elements. This means the cross brace can be included in both the first and second construction variants, even if it wouldn't actually be needed in the first variant. This allows the manufacturing process for both variants to be largely identical, thus minimizing production costs. The cross brace provides a support structure that allows the side structure elements to be firmly welded together, provided it doesn't negatively impact the core parameters of the base structure, particularly in the second variant.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the base structure is provided with at least one support element, arranged or formed on the transverse structural element, for bracing the support device against an end wall of the vehicle body, particularly directly or indirectly. This means that the support device, in particular the transverse structural element, can be braced or supported against the end wall, for example, in the longitudinal direction forward of the vehicle, via the support element, particularly directly or indirectly. In other words, the support device, in particular the transverse structural element, can be coupled or connected to the end wall, particularly mechanically, via the support element. This can significantly increase the stiffness of the support device. Furthermore, the support device can be securely fixed in the vehicle, particularly in the interior.This allows, for example, a basic rigidity of the base structure to be achieved, which can be further increased by the cross brace if required. This enables the various construction variants to be manufactured with particularly low effort. For example, the front wall at least partially limits the interior space in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle towards the front. In other words, the front wall forms at least part of the interior space.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the base structure is provided with at least one fastening device, arranged or formed on the transverse structural element, for attaching the support structure to an A-pillar of the vehicle body. This means that the support structure, in particular the transverse structural element, can be attached to or fastened to the A-pillar via the fastening device, in particular at least indirectly or directly. In other words, the support structure, in particular the transverse structural element, can be connected to or is connected to the A-pillar via the fastening device, for example, at least indirectly or directly. This allows the rigidity of the support structure to be significantly increased. Furthermore, the support structure can be arranged particularly securely within the vehicle, especially in the interior.Furthermore, the basic stiffness of the supporting structure can be significantly increased, which can be further increased as required by the cross brace, making it possible to produce the various construction variants with particularly low effort.

[0018] To further increase the stiffness of the support structure, particularly its basic stiffness, the base structure, in a further embodiment, features at least one coupling element, distinct from the transverse structural element and, in particular, from the cross brace, via which one of the side structural elements can be connected, at least indirectly or directly, to the fastening device and / or the A-pillar. In other words, the fastening device and / or the A-pillar and at least one of the side structural elements can be bridged or are bridged by means of the coupling element. This allows, for example, an additional connection of the side structural element to the fastening device and / or the A-pillar via the coupling element, bypassing the transverse structural element.

[0019] Alternatively, in a further embodiment, the fastening device may, for example, have at least one coupling point at which the cross member can be connected to the fastening device, particularly at least indirectly or directly, thereby connecting the fastening device to the side structural elements via the cross member. In other words, the cross member can be attached to the fastening device via the coupling point, thereby connecting the side structural elements to the fastening device, particularly at least indirectly or directly, via the coupling point. This can significantly increase the stiffness of the support structure. Alternatively or additionally, the cross member can be connected to the A-pillar, particularly at least indirectly or directly.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the base structure is provided to have a support element, arranged or formed, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on one of the side structure elements, by means of which the supporting structure can be supported or is supported, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, particularly to the rear, and / or in the vertical direction of the vehicle, particularly downwards, on a central tunnel of the vehicle body. In other words, the base structure, in particular the side structure element, can be coupled or is coupled to the central tunnel via the support element, in particular mechanically. The stiffness of the supporting structure can thereby be significantly increased. The central tunnel is, for example, part of a floor structure of the vehicle body, wherein this floor structure, for example, at least partially defines the interior space in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0021] In a further embodiment, it is provided that at least one of the side structural elements has at least one airbag mounting point, via which an airbag, which can be moved or positioned from a storage position into at least one protective position (in particular, a position different from the storage position) to restrain the driver of the motor vehicle, is to be held or secured to the support structure, in particular at least indirectly or directly. This means that the airbag can be attached or secured to the support structure, in particular to the at least one of the side structural elements, via the airbag mounting point. The airbag is, for example, designed as a knee airbag. The airbag mounting can be carried out identically or uniformly across different design variants by providing the airbag mounting point, thus enabling particularly cost-effective production of the various design variants.

[0022] The airbag is designed, for example, as an airbag module, in particular a knee airbag module. The airbag module has, for example, at least one airbag which is movable or repositionable, in particular to restrain the driver, from the storage position into the protective position. In particular, the airbag or airbag is fillable with air, specifically to effect the repositioning of the airbag or airbag from the storage position into the protective position. The air can be introduced into the airbag, in particular explosively, for example by means of at least one gas generator.The airbag, when in its protective position, can trap and restrain the driver, especially the driver's knees, who may be moving relative to the vehicle seat as a result of an accident, thus minimizing the risk of injury to the driver in a car accident.

[0023] A second aspect of the invention relates to a cross brace for a support device according to the first aspect of the invention. Thus, for example, the support device includes the cross brace. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0024] The cross brace has at least two spaced-apart connection areas, via which the cross brace can be attached or fastened to a respective connection point of a respective side structural element of the support structure, thereby connecting or linking the side structural elements of the support structure to one another via the cross brace. This means that the cross brace can be attached or fastened to the first connection point of the first side structural element via a first of the connection areas, in particular directly, thereby attaching or fastening the cross brace to the first side structural element, and that the cross brace can be attached or fastened to the second connection point of the second side structural element via the second of the connection areas, for example directly, thereby attaching or fastening the cross brace to the second side structural element.

[0025] A third aspect of the invention relates to a modular system for manufacturing at least two, in particular different, structural variants of a support device, especially according to the first aspect of the invention, for a steering column of a motor vehicle or for the motor vehicle itself. The support device is thus, in particular, a support device for the motor vehicle or for the motor vehicle, specifically designed for mounting the steering column. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention are to be considered as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0026] The modular system features a basic structure, particularly one that is consistent across different vehicle variants, which includes a transverse structural element. Furthermore, the basic structure has at least one mounting area by which the steering column is to be held or secured to the support structure. In addition, the basic structure has two side structural elements spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the vehicle and projecting downwards from the transverse structural element in the vertical direction of the vehicle, each of which has its own connection point.

[0027] Furthermore, the modular system features a cross brace, designed separately from the base structure and in particular specific to the construction variant, which can be attached or is attached to the respective connection point of the side structure element, thereby connecting or linking the side structure elements to one another via the cross brace. In particular, the cross brace is to be arranged or is arranged further down in the vertical direction of the vehicle than the mounting area, in particular than the steering column. The cross brace is preferably a cross brace according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0028] To enable particularly cost-effective production of the construction variants, one of the construction variants features a basic structure that is common across all variants and a cross brace that is specific to that variant. In other words, the basic structure and the cross brace are provided in the first construction variant. This means that the basic structure and the cross brace are used in the first construction variant. In the first construction variant, the cross brace is attached to the respective connection point of the respective side structure element, at least indirectly or directly, thereby connecting the side structure elements to each other via the cross brace, at least indirectly or directly. This means that in the first construction variant, the cross brace is attached to the respective side structure element at the respective connection point, particularly via the respective connection area.Furthermore, a second construction variant, with respect to the base structure and the cross brace, consists solely of the base structure. In other words, the second construction variant uses only the base structure and the cross brace. This means that the second construction variant uses, specifically, only the base structure. Put another way, the second construction variant is free of the cross brace. Specifically, the cross brace is not attached to the respective side structure element via the connection point in the second construction variant, which means that the side structure elements are not connected to each other via the cross brace. Therefore, in the second construction variant, the side structure elements are connected to each other exclusively via the cross structure element.

[0029] The fact that the basic structure is applicable across all construction variants, or that the basic structure is used in both the first and second construction variants, means that both the first and second construction variants have the same, in particular identical, basic structure.

[0030] The statement that the cross brace is specific to the construction variant, or that the cross brace is used in the first construction variant, is understood here to mean that, with regard to the two construction variants, the cross brace is used exclusively in the first construction variant, but not in the second. This means that the second construction variant is free of the cross brace.

[0031] A fourth aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing at least two, in particular different, structural variants of a support device for a steering column of a motor vehicle or for the motor vehicle itself. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first, second, and third aspects of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0032] The procedure includes at least the following steps, which are therefore carried out in particular during the procedure: - Providing a basic structure, in particular one that is compatible with different construction variants, which includes a transverse structural element, at least one mounting area by which the steering column is to be held on the support structure, and two side structural elements spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the vehicle and projecting downwards from the transverse structural element in the vertical direction of the vehicle, each of which has a respective connection point, and - Providing a cross brace, designed separately from the base structure and in particular specific to the construction variant, which can be attached to the respective connection point of the respective side structure element, thereby enabling the side structure elements to be connected to each other via the cross brace.

[0033] To enable particularly efficient production of the construction variants, the basic structure (which is common across all variants) and the cross brace (which is specific to each variant) are used to create the first variant. In the first variant, the cross brace is attached directly to the respective connection point of each side structure element, thus connecting the side structure elements via the cross brace. For the second variant, only the basic structure and the cross brace are used, meaning the second variant is free of the cross brace. This means, for example, that the second variant does not include the cross brace.

[0034] The first manufactured construction variant is, in particular, a construction variant of a modular system according to the third aspect of the invention. Furthermore, the second manufactured construction variant is, in particular, a construction variant according to the modular system according to the third aspect of the invention. The support device is preferably a support device according to the first aspect of the invention. The cross brace is preferably a cross brace according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0035] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown in the figures alone, are not only usable in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0036] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a preferred embodiment and the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a supporting structure according to the invention in a first construction variant; Fig. 2 a schematic perspective view of a support device according to the invention in a second construction variant; Fig. 3 a schematic perspective view of a support device according to the invention according to a first construction variant according to a further embodiment; and Fig. 4 a schematic representation to illustrate a modular system according to the invention.

[0037] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0038] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a support device 1 for a steering column of a motor vehicle. The support device 1 is thus designed and intended, in particular, to hold, i.e., to fix, the steering column in the motor vehicle.

[0039] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, the support structure 1 has a base structure 2, which is designed, for example, as a welded steel support structure. The base structure 2 has a transverse structural element 3. Furthermore, the base structure 2 has two side structural elements 6, 7 spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction 4 of the vehicle and projecting downwards in the transverse direction 4, in particular at least indirectly or directly, from the transverse structural element 3. For example, the side structural elements 6, 7 project from the transverse structural element 3 in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle, in particular forwards or backwards. The side structural elements 6, 7 are, for example, designed separately from the transverse structural element 3. For example, a first of the side structural elements 6 is arranged further outwards in the transverse direction 4 of the vehicle than the second of the side structural elements 7.

[0040] The base structure 2 further comprises at least one mounting area 9 by which the steering column is to be held or is to be held on the support structure 1, in particular on the base structure 2. The mounting area 9 is formed, for example, by at least one retaining element 10. Thus, for example, the base structure 2 comprises the retaining element 10, which in particular has the mounting area 9. The retaining element 10 projects, for example, in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle, for example, forwards, and / or in the vertical direction 5 of the vehicle, for example, downwards, from the transverse structural element 3. The retaining element 10 is, for example, formed separately from the transverse structural element 3, and in particular separately from the side structural elements 6, 7. In particular, the retaining element 10 is connected, for example, directly, to the transverse structural element 3.

[0041] The mounting area 9 has several mounting points 11, spaced apart from one another, for attaching the steering column. This means that the aforementioned attachment of the steering column to the support structure 1 or the base structure 2 is effected via the mounting area 9 and the mounting points 11. The mounting points 11 can thus be understood to be, in particular, the attachment points for the steering column. The steering column is attached to the mounting area 9, in particular at each mounting point 11, for example, by means of at least one screw connection. This screw connection is, for example, a screw connection formed by at least one screw or by at least one bolt, for example, with the aid of at least one nut.

[0042] When the steering column is held on the support structure 1 via the mounting area 9, the steering column is, for example, arranged in the transverse direction of the vehicle between the side structural elements 6, 7. Furthermore, the steering column is, for example, arranged at least partially further down in the vertical direction of the vehicle than the transverse structural element 3.

[0043] In order to be able to produce different construction variants 12, 13 of the support structure 1 with minimal effort, each side structure element 6, 7 has a respective connection point 14, 15 to which a cross strut 16, formed separately from the base structure 2, can be attached or fastened, whereby the side structure elements 6, 7 can be connected or connected to each other via the cross strut 16, for example in addition to the cross structure element 3.This means that the first side structural element 6 has a first connection point 14, and that the second side structural element 7 has a second connection point 15, wherein the cross member 16 can be connected or is connected, in particular at the respective connection point 14, 15, to the respective side structural element 6, 7, that is, at the first connection point 14 to the first side structural element 6 and at the second connection point 15 to the second side structural element 7. For this purpose, the cross member 16 has, for example, two connection areas 17, 18, spaced apart from each other, in particular in the transverse direction 4 of the vehicle, via which the cross member 16 can be attached or is attached to the respective connection point 14, 15 of the respective side structural element 6, 7.The cross brace 16 can thus be attached or fastened to the first side structural element 6, for example, via a first of the connection areas 17 and the first connection point 14. Furthermore, the cross brace 16 can be attached or fastened to the second side structural element 7, for example, via the second of the connection areas 18 and the second connection point 15. For example, the first connection area 17 is located, in particular directly, at the first connection point 14. Furthermore, the second connection area 18 is located, in particular directly, at the second connection point 15. Furthermore, the cross brace 16 has, for example, at least one coupling area 19, via which the connection areas 17 and 18 are connected to each other, in particular directly, whereby the side structural elements 6 and 7 can be connected to each other by means of the cross brace 16 and the coupling area 19.In particular, the cross member 16 is to be arranged further down in the vehicle's vertical direction 5 than the mounting area 9, especially than the steering column. Furthermore, the cross member 16 is preferably to be arranged further down in the vehicle's vertical direction 5 than the transverse structural element 3.

[0044] The stiffness of the support structure 1 can be particularly increased by the cross brace 16, that is, in particular by attaching the cross brace 16 to the side structural elements 6, 7.

[0045] In Fig. Figure 1 shows the support structure 1 according to one of the first construction variants 12. In the first construction variant 12, the support structure 1 has the base structure 2 and the cross brace 16. Fig. Figure 2 shows the support structure 1 in a schematic perspective view according to a second of the construction variants 13, in which the support structure 1, with respect to the base structure 2 and the cross brace 16, comprises only the base structure 2, thus making the second construction variant 13, in particular, free of the cross brace 16. In the first construction variant 12, the stiffness of the support structure 1 is thus increased by means of the cross brace 16. This stiffening is omitted, in particular, in the second construction variant 13, thus making the stiffness of the first construction variant 12, in particular, higher than the stiffness of the second construction variant 13.The basic structure 2 can therefore be used across all construction variants, particularly with regard to the first and second construction variants 12 and 13, whereas the cross brace 16, for example, is used only in a construction variant-specific manner, specifically in the first construction variant 12. This allows the same basic structure, i.e., the same or identical basic structure 2, to be used for both construction variants 12 and 13. The manufacturing effort for producing construction variants 12 and 13 can thus be kept particularly low. Only in construction variants, such as the first, which have particularly high stiffness requirements, can the cross brace 16 be provided.

[0046] This allows for the provision and attachment of different steering column variants, particularly those with the same or identical basic structure 2. For example, a first steering column variant is provided for the first construction variant 12, and a second steering column variant, different from the first, is provided for the second construction variant 13. The first steering column variant is, for example, heavier than the second, which can be compensated for by the aforementioned stiffening. Thus, different or multiple steering column variants can be attached to the mounting area 9, for example, to the screws and / or bolts mentioned.

[0047] For example, the cross brace 16 can be bolted or connected to the respective side structural element 6, 7 at the respective connection point 14, 15, in particular via the respective connection area 17, 18, at least indirectly or directly. Alternatively, the cross brace 16 can be welded or connected to the respective side structural element 6, 7 at the respective connection point 14, 15, in particular via the respective connection area 17, 18, at least indirectly or directly. The cross brace 16, also simply referred to as a brace, can thus be used as a bolted version to support special steering columns. If necessary, the cross brace 16 can also be implemented as a permanently welded version.

[0048] For example, the connection areas 17 and 18 are formed or connected to the coupling area 19 in one piece. For example, the cross member 16 is formed in one piece.

[0049] In the exemplary embodiment, the base structure 2 has at least one support element 20 arranged on the transverse structural element 3 for supporting the support device 1 against an end wall of the vehicle body. Two such support elements 20 are provided here, which are spaced apart from each other, particularly in the transverse direction 4 of the vehicle. The transverse structural element 3 can thus be supported or braced against the end wall, particularly in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle, at least indirectly or directly, via the respective support element 20. The respective support element 20 projects forward from the transverse structural element 3, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The respective support element 20 is, for example, formed separately from the transverse structural element 3. Alternatively, the support elements 20 can be formed integrally with the transverse structural element 3.The aforementioned support is provided, for example, on an upper area of ​​the front wall in the vehicle's vertical direction 5, i.e., on an upper part of the front wall. For example, the transverse structural element 3 can be attached to the front wall, at least indirectly or directly, via the support element 20, or via the respective support element 20.

[0050] In this embodiment, the base structure 2 has at least one fastening device 21 arranged on the transverse structural element 3 for attaching the support device 1 to an A-pillar 22 of the vehicle body. The fastening device 21 can be formed separately from the transverse structural element 3 or can be formed integrally with the transverse structural element 3. The A-pillar 22 is only shown schematically in the figures. The A-pillar 22 is, for example, configured as the left A-pillar 22, particularly when viewed forward along the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle. In particular, the vehicle body has a second A-pillar spaced apart from the A-pillar 22, which is therefore, for example, configured as the right A-pillar. The second A-pillar is not shown in the figures. However, it is also possible to provide for the attachment of the support device 1, in particular the base structure 2, to the second A-pillar.

[0051] In the Fig. 1 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the base structure 2 has a coupling element 23 that is distinct from the transverse structural element 3, in particular from the cross strut 16, and which is designed, for example, as a connecting strut. One of the side structural elements 6, 7, in this case the first side structural element 6, can be connected to the fastening device 21, and thereby, in particular, to the A-pillar 22, via the coupling element 23. The coupling element 23 can be formed separately from the side structural element 6 or can be formed integrally with the side structural element 6. Preferably, the coupling element 23 is formed separately from the fastening device 21.

[0052] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of the support device 1 according to a further embodiment, in which the fastening device 21 has at least one coupling point 24 at which the cross member 16 can be connected, in particular directly, to the fastening device 21. Thus, the cross member 16 has, for example, a second coupling area 25, distinct from the coupling area 19, via which the coupling point 24 can be connected, in particular via the first connection area 17, to the first connection point 14. This allows the fastening device 21 to be connected to the first side structural element 6 via the cross member 16, in particular via the second coupling area 25, and in particular bypassing or avoiding the cross structural element 3.Accordingly, the cross member 16, for example, has at least one third connection area 26, distinct from the connection areas 17, 18, via which the cross member 16 can be connected or is connected to the fastening device 21 at the coupling point 24. For example, the coupling areas 19, 25 are formed separately from each other or formed integrally with each other or are integrally connected with each other.

[0053] In the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. In each embodiment shown in Figure 3, the base structure 2 has at least one support element 27 arranged, and in particular attached, to one of the side structure elements 6, 7, in this case to the second side structure element 7, by means of which the support device 1, in particular the base structure 2, can be supported or is supported on a central tunnel of the vehicle body, for example in the vehicle's vertical direction 5, in particular downwards, and / or in the vehicle's longitudinal direction 8, in particular to the rear. To effect the support, the support element 27 has, for example, several support bodies 28, which project, for example, from a base body 29 of the support element 27 in the vehicle's vertical direction 5, for example downwards. Support on the central tunnel, for example on a first side of the central tunnel, is effected, for example, by means of a first group 28a of the support bodies 28.Furthermore, support is provided, for example, via a second group 28b of the support bodies 28, which is distinct from the first group 28a, on a second side of the central tunnel, which is distinct from the first side. These sides are, in particular, four different sides in the transverse direction of the vehicle, whereby, for example, the first side is the left side and the second side is the right side. Support can thus be provided to the central tunnel on the left and right via the support element 27. For example, the support device 1 can be attached to the central tunnel via the support element 27, in particular at least indirectly or directly.

[0054] In particular, if the cross member 16 is arranged or designed in the vehicle's vertical direction 5 below the mounting area 9, which is designed as a steering column connection, care must be taken, for example, to ensure that a load path, especially one acting on the support structure 1, extends or can extend into a tunnel connection, i.e., for example, via the support element 27 into the central tunnel. The load path, or rather the force path, must not be interrupted. This can be achieved by bracing the support structure 1 against the central tunnel via the support element 27.

[0055] In the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. In each embodiment shown in Figure 3, at least one of the side structure elements 6, 7, i.e. the first and / or the second side structure element 6, 7, has at least one, in particular each, airbag attachment point 30, by means of which an airbag, in particular a knee airbag, which can be moved from a storage position into at least one protective position to restrain a driver of the motor vehicle, is held or retained on the support device 1, in particular on the base structure 2.

[0056] For example, at least one second support element 31, formed separately from the holding element 10 and in particular separately from the transverse structural element 3, is arranged on the holding element 10, by means of which the support device 1 can be supported or is supported on the front wall, in particular at least in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle, for example forwards. This support takes place, for example, in a lower area of ​​the front wall in the vertical direction 5 of the vehicle, that is, for example, on a lower part of the front wall.

[0057] The support device 1 enables, in particular, a modular system 32 for the production of at least two construction variants 12, 13 to be realized. The modular system 32 is in Fig.Figure 4 illustrates the modular system 32, which comprises the base structure 2 and the cross brace 16. The first construction variant 12 of the support structure 1 includes the base structure 2 and the cross brace 16, which in the first construction variant 12 is attached to the respective connection point 14, 15 of the respective side structure element 6, 7, thus connecting the side structure elements 6, 7 to each other via the cross brace 16. The second construction variant 13 of the support structure 1 comprises only the base structure 2 and the cross brace 16, meaning that the second construction variant 13 is specifically free of the cross brace 16, i.e., it does not have the cross brace 16.

[0058] Furthermore, the support structure 1, in particular the modular system 32, enables, for example, a method for manufacturing at least two construction variants 12, 13 of the support structure 1. In the method, the basic structure 2 is provided, in particular at least two copies of the basic structure 2. Furthermore, in the method, the cross brace 16, for example only one copy of the cross brace 16, is provided.

[0059] To manufacture the first construction variant, the base structure 2, in particular a first instance of the base structure 2, and the cross brace 16 are provided, which in the first construction variant 12 is attached to the respective connection point 14, 15 of the respective side structure element 6, 7, in particular of the first instance of the base structure 2, thereby connecting the side structure elements 6, 7, in particular of the first instance of the base structure 2, to each other via the cross brace 16. To manufacture the second construction variant 13, with regard to the base structure 2, in particular the second instance of the base structure 2 and the cross brace 16, only the base structure 2, in particular the second instance of the base structure 2, is provided.

[0060] Numerals, such as "first," "second," "third," etc., are intended solely for differentiation and do not, in particular, indicate a sequence. This means that the corresponding numerals can be interchanged at will. Reference symbol list 1 Support device 2 Basic structure 3 Cross-structural element 4 Vehicle transverse direction 5 Vehicle uphill 6 first page structure element 7 second page structure element 8 Vehicle longitudinal direction 9 Mounting area 10 Holding part 11. Attachment point 12 first construction variant 13 second construction variant 14 first connection point 15 second connection point 16 cross brace 17 first connection area 18 second connection area 19 coupling area 20 support elements 21 Fastening device 22 A-pillar 23 coupling element 24 coupling point 25 second coupling area 26 second connection area 27 Support part 28 support bodies 28a first group of supporting bodies 28b second group of supporting bodies 29 Basic bodies 30 Airbag attachment point 31 second support part 32 modular system QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 0 245 612 B1

[0002]

Claims

Support device (1) for a steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising a base structure (2) which has a transverse structure element (3), two side structure elements (6, 7) spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction (4) of the vehicle and projecting downwards from the transverse structure element (3) in the vertical direction (5) of the vehicle and at least one fastening area (9), which is to be held on the support device (1) via the steering column, wherein the respective side structure element (6, 7) each has a respective connection point (14, 15) to which a cross strut (16) formed separately from the base structure (2) and arranged further down in the vertical direction (5) of the vehicle can be attached, whereby the side structure elements (6, 7) can be connected to each other via the cross strut (16). Support device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cross strut (16) can be screwed or welded to the respective side structure element (6, 7) at the respective connection point (14, 15). Support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the base structure (2) has a support element (20) arranged on the transverse structure element (3) for supporting the support device (1) on an end wall of a body of the motor vehicle. Support device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base structure (2) has a fastening device (21) arranged on the transverse structure element (3) for fastening the support device (1) to an A-pillar (22) of a body of the motor vehicle. Support device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that • the base structure (2) has a coupling element (23) different from the transverse structure element (3), via which one of the side structure elements (6, 7) can be connected to or is connected to the fastening device (21) and / or to the A-pillar (22), or • the fastening device (21) has a coupling point (24) at which the cross strut (16) can be connected to the fastening device (21). Support device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base structure (2) has a support element (27) arranged on one of the side structure elements (6, 7), by means of which the support structure (1) can be supported on a central tunnel of a body of the motor vehicle. Support device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the side structure elements (6, 7) has an airbag attachment point (30) via which an airbag which can be moved from a storage position into at least one protective position to restrain a driver of the motor vehicle is to be held on the support device (1). Crossbar (16) for a support device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, with two spaced-apart connection areas (17, 18) via which the crossbar (16) can be attached to a respective connection point (14, 15) of a respective side structural element (6, 7) of the support device (1). Modular system (32) for manufacturing at least two construction variants (12, 13) of a support device (1) for a steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising: • a base structure (2) comprising a transverse structure element (3), at least one mounting area (9) by means of which the steering column is to be held on the support device (1), and two side structure elements (6, 7) spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction (4) of the vehicle and projecting downwards from the transverse structure element (3) in the vertical direction (5) of the vehicle, each having a respective connection point (14, 15), and • a cross brace (16) formed separately from the base structure (2), which can be attached to the respective connection point (14, 15) of the side structure element (6, 7), whereby the side structure elements (6, 7) can be connected to each other via the cross brace (16), wherein • a first of the construction variants (12) combines the base structure (2) and the cross brace (16) exhibitswhich in the first construction variant (12) is attached to the respective connection point (14, 15) of the respective side structure element (6, 7), whereby the side structure elements (6, 7) are connected to each other via the cross member (16), and a second of the construction variants (13) with respect to the base structure (2) and the cross member (16) has exclusively the base structure (2). Method for manufacturing at least two structural variants (12, 13) of a support device (1) for a steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising the steps of: • providing a base structure (2) comprising a transverse structural element (3), at least one mounting area (9) by means of which the steering column is to be held on the support device (1), and two side structural elements (6, 7) spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction (4) of the vehicle and projecting downwards from the transverse structural element (3) in the vertical direction (5) of the vehicle, each having a respective connection point (14, 15), and • providing a cross member (16) formed separately from the base structure (2), which can be attached to the respective connection point (14, 15) of the respective side structural element (6, 7), whereby the side structural elements (6, 7) can be connected to each other via the cross member (16).wherein • to produce a first of the construction variants (12) the base structure (2) and the cross brace (16) are provided, which in the first construction variant (12) is attached to the respective connection point (14, 15) of the respective side structure element (6, 7), thereby connecting the side structure elements (6, 7) to each other via the cross brace (16), and • to produce a second of the construction variants (13) with respect to the base structure (2) and the cross brace (16) only the base structure (2) is provided.

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