Energy absorption device, steering device and production method

Abstract

The present invention relates to an energy-absorbing device disposed between a fastening device (13) and a retainer (14), the retainer (14) being movable relative to the fastening device when a predetermined impact force is exceeded. The energy-absorbing device has a deformable strand for absorbing energy and a guide device for guiding the strand during deformation. To enable more economical and efficient assembly and / or production, the energy-absorbing device is characterized in that the strand and the guide device are formed as a single piece; and the strand is U-shaped having a first branch and a second branch, the first branch being shorter than the second branch in an initial position, and the first branch becoming longer and the second branch becoming shorter after the strand deforms relative to the initial position due to energy absorption; and the guide device has a first guide section and a second guide section, wherein, at least during strand deformation, the first branch of the strand abuts against the first guide section and the second branch of the strand abuts against the second guide section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an energy-absorbing device disposed between a fastening device and a retainer, wherein the retainer is movable relative to the fastening device when a predetermined impact force is exceeded, the energy-absorbing device having deformable strands for absorbing energy, and having a guiding device for guiding the strands during deformation. Furthermore, this invention relates to a steering system for a vehicle, the steering system having a fastening device for fastening to a vehicle carrier or vehicle body, a retainer for retaining the steering column (the retainer having at least one connecting section for connecting to the fastening device), and at least one energy-absorbing device of the aforementioned type. Finally, this invention relates to a method of manufacturing such an energy-absorbing device and / or such a steering system. Background Technology

[0002] Such energy absorption devices and / or steering devices are known from EP 3 268 261 B1. Accordingly, the guiding device for guiding the strands during deformation is designed as a component of the fastening device.

[0003] When the guide device is designed as a component of the fastening device and / or retainer, the disadvantage is that this is associated with increased manufacturing and / or cost expenditures. However, simply omitting the guide device is also undesirable, as this introduces the risk that the strands used to absorb energy will deform in at least some degree undesirable manner. As a result, the absorption characteristics may sometimes change uncontrollably during deformation.

[0004] The object of this invention is to further develop an energy absorption device, a steering device, and / or a method of the type described at the outset, in a manner that enables more economical and efficient assembly and / or production. Controlled and / or predetermined deformation of the strands used to absorb the energy of introduced impact forces should preferably be made possible by a guiding device. Specifically, alternative embodiments will be provided. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is achieved by means of the energy absorption device, steering device and / or method described below. Preferred further embodiments of the invention can be found in the following description.

[0006] An energy-absorbing device is designed to be disposed between a fastening device and a retainer. Specifically, the energy-absorbing device is designed for use in steering systems of vehicles, particularly motor vehicles. The retainer can move relative to the fastening device when an impact force exceeds a predetermined value. To absorb energy, particularly energy introduced by an impact force, the energy-absorbing device has deformable strands. Specifically, the strands are formed of steel, aluminum, or other metals. The strands can be formed of tough or elastic materials. The strands are guided by a guide device during deformation to absorb energy. According to the invention, the strands and the guide device are designed as a single piece; and the strand is U-shaped with a first branch and a second branch, the first branch being shorter than the second branch in an initial position, and after the strand deforms relative to the initial position due to energy absorption, the first branch becomes longer and the second branch becomes shorter; and the guide device has a first guide section and a second guide section, wherein, at least during the deformation of the strand, the first branch of the strand abuts against the first guide section and the second branch of the strand abuts against the second guide section.

[0007] The advantage here is that the strands and guides are not designed as separate or independent components that must first be properly connected to each other during assembly. Instead, the strands and guides form a single unit. This facilitates or simplifies assembly and brings cost advantages in production.

[0008] The energy-absorbing device is preferably formed from a single semi-finished product and / or sheet metal element. Therefore, both the strand and the guide device are made from the same semi-finished product and / or sheet metal element. Specifically, the energy-absorbing device is formed by stamping and / or shaping (e.g., bending) or other suitable manufacturing processes. Shaping is preferably performed after stamping. Other suitable separation and / or cutting processes can be used as alternatives to stamping. The strand and the guide device are preferably formed and / or shaped from segments of the semi-finished product and / or sheet metal element. In other words, the strand can therefore be designed as a strand segment of the energy-absorbing device. Simultaneously, the guide device is designed as a guide segment of the energy-absorbing device. Alternatively, the energy-absorbing device can consist of several separate components.

[0009] According to another embodiment, the strand is U-shaped or substantially U-shaped, particularly relative to a side view. Therefore, the strand has a first branch and a second branch. A curved section of the strand preferably connects the first branch to the second branch, resulting in the U-shaped design of the strand. Specifically, the curved section has a constant radius. At the initial position of the energy-absorbing device, the first branch may be shorter than the second branch. Alternatively, at the initial position, the first and second branches may have the same length. Specifically, after the strand deforms relative to the initial position due to energy absorption, the first branch becomes longer and the second branch becomes shorter. At least at an intermediate position during the strand deformation, the first and second branches may have the same length. At the final position after the strand deformation ends, particularly after the maximum deformation of the strand, the first branch is longer than the second branch. The distance between the two branches preferably remains constant before, during, and after the deformation due to the guiding device. When the strand deforms, the first and second branches may move relative to each other, particularly shift or pull.

[0010] According to another embodiment, the guiding device has a first guiding section and a second guiding section. Here, at least during the deformation of the strand, a first branch of the strand rests on the first guiding section, and a second branch of the strand rests on the second guiding section. In the initial position, before the strand deforms, the first branch of the strand preferably has already contacted the first guiding section and the second branch of the strand has contacted the second guiding section. In particular, the two guiding sections are arranged on opposite sides of the strand. Thus, a U-shaped strand can be arranged between the two guiding sections. In the case of deformation due to energy absorption, the strand preferably unfolds segmentally from the guiding device and is wound segmentally onto the guiding device. In particular, one of the two branches unfolds from one of the two guiding sections during deformation, while the other branch is wound onto the other guiding section. In this case, it is preferable to ensure that the first branch and the second branch are in continuous contact with the guiding device or the corresponding guiding section throughout the deformation. In particular, this is ensured by appropriately selecting the radius of the bent section of the U-shaped strand. In particular, the guiding device ensures a constant radius of the curved section of the U-shaped strand, at least during the strand deformation.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the radius of the curved section of the U-shaped strand can be smaller in the initial position than during and / or after deformation. Here, the first branch and / or second branch of the strand in the initial position cannot abut against their respective assigned guide sections, or the first branch is spaced apart from the first guide section and / or the second branch is spaced apart from the second guide section. Specifically, as the strand begins to deform, the radius widens until the first branch abuts against the first guide section and / or the second branch abuts against the second guide section. The radius of the curved section preferably remains constant during subsequent continuous deformation.

[0012] In its initial position before the strand deforms to absorb energy, the strand may be at least partially and / or on one side, preferably in the longitudinal direction of the relevant guide segment, connected by bonding and / or in one piece to the first guide segment and / or the second guide segment. Specifically, when the strand deforms, this bonding connection between the strand and the first and / or second guide segments is torn, particularly laterally, and / or sheared. As a result, in addition to the deformation of the strand, simultaneous partial material separation of the strand from the guide device is achieved. If such a bonding connection exists, the energy-absorbing device can absorb energy from higher impact forces and / or can improve the guidance of the strand during its deformation.

[0013] According to another embodiment, at least a first end of the strand is integrated with the guiding device as a single piece. Specifically, the first end of a first branch of the strand is integrally incorporated into a first guiding section of the guiding device. The first end of the first branch can be incorporated into the first guiding section via a fold, particularly a fold of material. Preferably, the fold results in the first branch and the first guiding section abutting against each other, particularly parallel to each other. The second end of the strand, particularly a second branch of the strand, is preferably integrated with a second guiding section of the guiding device as a single piece. Here, the second end of the second branch can also be incorporated into the second guiding section via a fold, preferably a fold of material. Preferably, the fold results in the second branch and the second guiding section abutting against each other, particularly parallel to each other.

[0014] At least one guide section of the guiding device is designed as a strip section with a U-shaped or H-shaped cross-section. Specifically, the first and second guide sections of the guiding device are respectively designed as strip sections with U-shaped or H-shaped cross-sections. This cross-section provides sufficient reinforcement to the respective guide sections in a simple manner. This ensures that the strands deform in a controlled and / or predetermined manner when energy is absorbed.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the guiding device is designed to have a U-shaped or substantially U-shaped cross-section. Accordingly, the guiding device designed in this way has a first branch flange and a second branch flange. Specifically, the first branch flange of the guiding device forms a first guiding section, and the second branch flange of the guiding device forms a second guiding section. Here, the two guiding sections are connected to each other by side sections of the guiding device. In other words, the guiding device can be designed as a type of channel or tube open on one side. Lateral guidance of the strand is preferably implemented by the side sections. Thus, the strand can be guided by the two guiding sections on two opposite sides and additionally by the side sections on at least one side.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the guiding device is designed to have a tubular and / or rectangular cross-section. The guiding device preferably has two walls opposite each other, and two opposing sidewalls between the two walls. The strand is preferably at least partially arranged within the guiding device. Specifically, the first wall of the guiding device forms a first guiding section, and the second wall forms a second guiding section. Here, the two guiding sections are connected to each other by at least one of the two sidewalls of the guiding device. Lateral guidance of the strand is preferably implemented by at least one of the two sidewalls or by both sidewalls. Therefore, with such a guiding device, the guidance or deformation of the strand can be predetermined with even greater reliability.

[0017] Depending on the energy absorption and / or desired deformation behavior, the strand may have at least one material reduction section, at least one material opening, and / or at least one material thickening section, particularly to influence the energy absorption and / or force distribution. Specifically, several material reduction sections, material openings, and / or material thickening sections may be formed. The material opening may be implemented as a hole or a groove.

[0018] A steering device for a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle, having an energy absorption device according to the invention, is particularly advantageous. Specifically, the steering device includes a steering wheel. The steering wheel is preferably connected to the vehicle's driving wheels. In this case, the driving wheels can be moved or aligned by means of the steering device and by turning the steering wheel. This allows the driver to control the direction of travel when the vehicle is in motion.

[0019] In particular, energy absorption devices can better protect vehicle drivers from injury in the event of an accident. In the event of an accident, especially a frontal collision, the driver may be thrown onto the steering wheel and / or onto the deployed airbag in the steering wheel. As a result, the impact force can be introduced into the steering system and energy absorption device via the steering wheel.

[0020] The steering system has a fastening device. The fastening device is designed for fastening to the vehicle carrier or vehicle body. The vehicle carrier may be designed as a lateral component of the vehicle. The fastening device is preferably fastened to the vehicle carrier or vehicle body in an area of ​​the dashboard or instrument panel. Specifically, the fastening device is fastened to the vehicle carrier or vehicle body in a manner that prevents relative movement between the fastening device and the vehicle carrier or vehicle body.

[0021] Furthermore, the steering system has a retainer for securing the steering column. Specifically, the steering wheel is mounted on the steering column. The steering column can be adjustable in terms of tilt, height, and / or length. This allows for adjustment of the steering wheel position according to the driver's height or ergonomics. The retainer may have at least one connecting section for connection to the fastening device by means of a fastening device. Specifically, the retainer is not directly fastened to the vehicle carrier or vehicle body, but rather by insertion into the fastening device. Here, the connection from the retainer to the fastening device is secured and / or fixed by the fastening device. The fastening device is preferably designed as a screw, bolt, or rivet.

[0022] The steering mechanism may have at least one predetermined fracture segment designed to break upon reaching a predetermined impact force. The predetermined fracture segment may be provided and / or formed by an energy-absorbing device. Alternatively or supplementally, the predetermined fracture segment may be designed to be different from and complement the energy-absorbing device. Specifically, the steering column and / or retainer are released from the fastening device after the predetermined fracture segment breaks. Preferably, after the predetermined fracture segment breaks, a predetermined actuation of the steering mechanism and / or steering column, particularly relative to and / or away from the fastening device, becomes possible. The steering mechanism has at least one energy-absorbing device or several, particularly two, energy-absorbing devices. The energy-absorbing device has deformable strands for absorbing energy and guiding devices for guiding the strands during deformation. Here, the strands and guiding devices are formed as a single piece.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the guiding device has a first guiding section and a second guiding section. Here, one of the two guiding sections is securely connected to the fastening device. The other guiding section is securely connected to the retainer. Alternatively, the other guiding section can only be assigned to the retainer for engagement displacement, particularly after the predetermined breakage section has broken. In the latter case, the other guiding section does not need to be securely connected to the retainer, but it is sufficient for the other guiding section to contact the retainer in a suitable manner. The fastening of the relevant guiding section and / or the assignment of the corresponding guiding section can be implemented by a suitable engagement, friction, and / or interlocking connection with the fastening device and / or the retainer. For example, one end of a branch of the strand may have a receiver, eye, or aperture through which the fastening device for connecting the retainer to the fastening device can be pushed.

[0024] Furthermore, the method for producing the energy-absorbing device and / or the steering device according to the invention is advantageous, wherein the energy-absorbing device is formed in one piece from a single semi-finished product and / or sheet metal element. The semi-finished product and / or sheet metal element can be produced from sheet metal by stamping or cutting, for example by laser. Subsequently, U-shaped or substantially U-shaped strands and associated guiding devices, particularly guiding devices having a first guiding section and a second guiding section, can be formed from the semi-finished product and / or sheet metal element, particularly through multiple shaping processes.

[0025] In particular, the energy-absorbing device and / or steering device produced according to the method of the present invention are the energy-absorbing device and / or steering devices previously described. This method is preferably developed based on the design explained in conjunction with the energy-absorbing device and / or steering device of the present invention described herein. Furthermore, the energy-absorbing device and / or steering device described herein can be further implemented based on the design explained in conjunction with this method. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Herein, the same reference numerals refer to the same, similar, or functionally identical parts or elements, wherein:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective side view of the first energy absorption device according to the present invention.

[0028] Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c are used for production based on... Figure 1 A perspective side view of multiple intermediate stages of the first energy absorption device according to the present invention.

[0029] Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c are based on Figure 1 Side views of the first energy absorption device according to the present invention in different states.

[0030] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 1 A perspective side view of the first energy absorption device according to the first steering device of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 5 It is based on Figure 4 Details of the steering device according to the present invention,

[0032] Figures 6a and 6b are perspective side views of a semi-finished product for forming the second energy absorption device according to the present invention and the formed second energy absorption device, respectively.

[0033] Figure 7a , Figure 7b This is a further partially transparent perspective side view of the second energy absorption device according to the present invention, based on FIG6b.

[0034] Figures 8a and 8b are perspective side views of a semi-finished product for forming the third energy absorption device according to the present invention and the formed third energy absorption device, respectively.

[0035] Figure 9a , Figure 9b This is a further perspective side view of the third energy absorption device according to the present invention, based on FIG8b.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a perspective side view of another energy absorption device according to the present invention.

[0037] Figure 11 This is a perspective side view of another steering device according to the invention, which has according to... Figure 10 Another energy absorption device, and

[0038] Figure 12 It is based on Figure 11 Partial transparent details of the steering device according to the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Figure 1 A perspective side view of a first energy absorption device 1 is shown. The energy absorption device 1 has deformable strands 2 for absorbing energy. The strands 2 are U-shaped or U-shaped. Here, the strands 2 have a first branch 3 and a second branch 4 that are aligned parallel to each other. In the initial position of the energy absorption device 1 shown here, the first branch 3 is shorter than the second branch 4.

[0040] Furthermore, the energy absorption device 1 also has a guiding device 5. The guiding device 5 is designed to guide the strand 2 during deformation. In this embodiment, the guiding device 5 has a first guiding section 6 and a second guiding section 7. The first guiding section 6 is assigned to a first branch 3. The second guiding section 7 is assigned to a second branch 4. In this case, the first branch 3 abuts against the first guiding section 6. The second branch 4 abuts against the second guiding section 7.

[0041] In this embodiment, each of the two guide segments 6 and 7 is designed as a strip segment with a U-shaped cross-section. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the U-shaped branches of these guide segments 6 and 7 each face away from the strand 2. The two guide segments 6 and 7 are aligned parallel to each other, with the U-shaped strand 2 arranged between the two guide segments 6 and 7.

[0042] The strand 2 and the guide device 5 are formed as a single piece. In this embodiment, the first end 8 (i.e., the first branch 3) of the strand 2 is incorporated into the guide device 5 or the first guide segment 6 as a single piece due to the folding portion 9. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second end 10 (i.e., the second branch 4) of the strand 2 is incorporated into the second guide segment 7 due to the folding portion 11. Here, the folding portion is designed to be folded 180°.

[0043] Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c illustrate the production process based on... Figure 1 A perspective side view of a plurality of intermediate stages of the first energy absorption device 1 of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2a shows a semi-finished product 12, which in this embodiment is designed as a sheet metal element or a strip of sheet metal. The semi-finished product 12 is then processed by stamping and shaping, and Figure 2b shows the intermediate stages of processing the semi-finished product 12.

[0045] Figure 2b shows the already formed guide segments 6 and 7. Similarly, the already formed strand 2 extends between the two guide segments 6 and 7. The strand 2 is formed by stamping the central region of the semi-finished product 2. The guide segments 6 and 7 are formed by subsequent shaping of the corresponding edge regions, resulting in a U-shaped cross-section for the guide segments 6 and 7. In the intermediate stage shown in Figure 2b, the strand 2 is not yet U-shaped, but extends in a straight line between the two guide segments 6 and 7.

[0046] Subsequently, the semi-finished product 12 according to Figure 2b is modified in such a way that the final design of the energy absorption device 1 according to Figure 2c is obtained. Therefore, the U-shaped strand 2 and the guide device 5 are formed from sections of the semi-finished product 12.

[0047] Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c show the results based on... Figure 1 Side views of the first energy absorption device 1 according to the present invention in different states.

[0048] Figure 3a shows the results according to Figure 1 The energy-absorbing device 1 is in its initial position. In this initial position, the first branch 3 is shorter than the second branch 4. The first guide section 6 is connected to the fastening device 13 in a manner shown only schematically. The second guide section 7 is connected to the retainer 14 in a manner shown only schematically. When a predetermined impact force is exceeded, the retainer 14 can move relative to the fastening device 13. Here, according to arrow 15, the impact force or energy-absorbing force acts in the longitudinal direction of the first guide section 6 and in the direction of the first branch 3. The connections between the first guide section 6 and the fastening device 13, and between the second guide section 7 and the retainer 14, are designed in such a way that these connections can absorb the forces and moments that occur when the strand 2 deforms.

[0049] According to Figure 3b, when the predetermined impact force is exceeded, there is relative movement of the retainer 14 relative to the fastening direction 13, extending longitudinally parallel to the guide segments 6 and 7. This causes deformation of the strand 2. During the gradual deformation of the strand 2, or during the continuous relative movement or displacement of the retainer 14 relative to the fastening device 13, the first branch 3 becomes longer and the second branch 4 becomes shorter. In this embodiment, the deformation of the strand 2 relative to the guide device 5 occurs with very little or almost no friction.

[0050] Figure 3c shows the final position of the energy absorption device 1 after the maximum deformation of the strand 2. At this final position, the first branch 3 is longer than the second branch 4. Compared to the initial position according to Figure 3a, the two guide segments 6 and 7 are displaced parallel to each other. Here, the distance between the two guide segments 6 and 7 remains unchanged.

[0051] Figure 4 It shows that it has the following characteristics: Figure 1 A perspective side view of the first energy absorption device 1 and the first steering device 16 according to the invention. The steering device 16 can be mounted on a vehicle carrier (e.g., a vehicle lateral member) not shown in detail herein. The steering device 16 has a fastening device 13. By means of the fastening device 13, the steering device 16 is fastened or can be fastened to a vehicle carrier not shown in detail herein. The steering device 16 also has a retainer 14. The retainer 14 is connected to the fastening device 13 by means of a connecting device 47 not shown in detail herein. Furthermore, the retainer 14 holds the steering column 17 of the steering device 16. At the free end 18 of the steering column 17, a steering wheel (not shown herein) can be mounted or will be mounted.

[0052] In this embodiment, the steering device 16 has an adjustment mechanism 19. This adjustment mechanism 19 specifically includes a lever 20. The adjustment mechanism 19 allows adjustment of the steering column 17, and therefore the steering wheel, with respect to its tilt and / or height. For this purpose, the steering column 17 can be adjusted in terms of its tilt, height, and / or length via the adjustment mechanism 19. To adjust the tilt and / or height, the adjustment mechanism 19 is released via the lever 20. After the desired tilt and / or height has been set, the adjustment mechanism 19 is fixed or blocked via the lever 20.

[0053] Energy absorption device 1 is designed to absorb impact forces introduced via the steering wheel. For example, in the event of an accident or due to a collision, the driver of a vehicle with steering device 16 is thrown toward and onto the steering wheel or onto an airbag (not shown) positioned on the steering wheel and triggered. As a result, the impact force is introduced into steering device 16 via the steering wheel at the free end 18 of steering column 17. When a predetermined impact force is reached, retainer 14 is released from fastening device 13. Therefore, according to the predetermined impact force, yielding or displacement of steering column 17 in the pull-out direction according to arrow 21 is possible. In this embodiment, the pull-out direction according to arrow 21 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension of steering column 17. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pull-out direction according to arrow 21 points from free end 18 toward fastening device 13. The following figure shows detail A of steering device 16.

[0054] Figure 5 It shows that according to Figure 4 Detail A of the steering device 16 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the fastening device 13 has a groove 22 for arranging the energy absorption device 1. In the region of the groove 22, the fastening device 13 has two opposing flanges 23, 24 on both sides of the groove 22. A first guide section 6 is arranged between the flanges 23, 24 and is securely connected to these flanges. On the other hand, a second guide section 7 is securely connected to the retainer 14. When a predetermined impact force is reached, the retainer 14 is released from the fastening device 13. During the subsequent deformation of the strand 2, the second guide section 7 moves in the direction of and parallel to the first guide section 6. Due to the continuous deformation of the strand 2, energy is continuously absorbed.

[0055] Figure 6a shows a perspective side view of a semi-finished product 25 for forming the second energy absorption device 26 of the present invention according to Figure 6b. Figure 6a shows the semi-finished product 25, which in this embodiment is designed as a sheet metal element or sheet. The outline or shape of the outer edge of the semi-finished product 25 has been produced in this embodiment by stamping. In the semi-finished product 25 according to Figure 6a, the strand 2 is not yet U-shaped, but extends linearly or in a straight line. One end of the strand 2 is incorporated into a substantially rectangular plate 27. On the side of the plate 27 opposite to the strand 2, a flange 28 protrudes from the plate 27. Starting from the semi-finished product 25 according to Figure 6a, this product is modified in a suitable manner to produce the desired energy absorption device 26 according to Figure 6b. The energy absorption device 26 is constructed as a single piece and has a U-shaped strand 2 and a guide device 5.

[0056] Figure 7a and Figure 7bAnother perspective side view of the second energy absorption device 26 according to the invention, according to FIG. 6b, is shown. In this embodiment, the guide device 5 is designed to have a tubular or rectangular cross-section. The guide device 5 of the energy absorption device 26 has a first wall 29 and a second wall 30. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the guide device 5 has two side walls 31, 32. The first wall 29 forms a first guide section 29 for the strand 2. The second wall 30 forms a second guide section 30 for the strand 2. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the two side walls 31, 32 form lateral guides for the strand 2. The first wall 29 is connected to the second wall 30 by the side wall 32. The second wall 30 is connected to the side wall 31, wherein the two side walls 31, 32 are opposite to each other, and the strand 2 is arranged between the two side walls. An edge 33 is formed on the first wall 29 on the side of the side wall 31 facing away from the second wall 30. In this case, the edge 33 abuts against the first wall 29 on the side facing away from the strand 2.

[0057] Figure 7b A transparent perspective side view of the energy absorption device 26 is shown. In this embodiment, the first branch 3 of the strand 2 has a free branch end 34. The branch end 34 can be securely connected to a fastening device or retainer, which is not shown in more detail here. The second branch 4 of the strand 2 is formed as a single piece with the second wall 30 by means of a fold 11. On the side opposite to the branch end 34, a flange 28 extends outward. The flange 28 can be used to fasten to a fastening device or retainer not connected to the branch end 34.

[0058] In this embodiment, unlike the embodiments according to Figures 3a to 3c, the deformation of the strand 2 relative to the guide device 5 is subjected to friction. Unlike the embodiments according to Figures 3a to 3c, the additional force and / or torque can be absorbed by the additional walls 29, 30.

[0059] Figure 8a shows a perspective side view of a semi-finished product 35 for forming the third energy absorption device 36 of the present invention according to Figure 8b. The semi-finished product 35 is designed in a manner similar to that of the semi-finished product 25 according to Figure 6a. However, while in Figure 6a, the straight strand 2 is incorporated into the plate 27 in the central region, in the semi-finished product 35 according to Figure 8a, the straight strand 2 is incorporated into the plate 37 in the edge region. As a result, the strand 2 and the plate 37 form a common straight edge. After appropriate modification of the semi-finished product 35, the energy absorption device 36 according to Figure 8b is produced. This energy absorption device has a U-shaped strand 2 and a guide device 5.

[0060] Figure 9a and Figure 9bA perspective side view of the third energy absorption device 36 according to the invention, according to FIG. 8b, is shown. In this embodiment, the guide device 5 of the energy absorption device 36 is designed to have a U-shaped cross-section. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the guide device 5 has a first branch flange 38 and a second branch flange 39. In this case, the first branch flange 38 simultaneously forms a first guide section 38, and the second branch flange 39 forms a second guide section 39 of the guide device 5. These two guide sections or the two branch flanges 38, 39 are interconnected by a side section 40 of the guide device 5. In this case, the lateral guidance of the strand 2 is simultaneously achieved by the side section 40. (Compared with...) Figure 7b Similar to the energy absorption device 26, the strand 2 of the energy absorption device 36 also has a free branch end 34 formed on the first branch 3. The second branch 4 is formed as a single piece by means of the folding part 11 and the second branch flange 39.

[0061] Figure 9b An energy absorption device 36 is shown, wherein a flange 28 is connected to a retainer 14 shown only schematically herein, and a free branch end 34 is connected to a fastening device 13 shown only schematically herein.

[0062] When the predetermined impact force is reached, relative movement occurs between the retainer 14 and the fastening device 13, wherein the fastening device 13 and the retainer 14 move away from each other according to arrow 15. This causes deformation of the strand 2. In the process of gradual deformation starting from the initial position shown here, the first branch 3 becomes longer and the second branch 4 continuously becomes shorter until the end position (not shown here) is reached.

[0063] In this embodiment, unlike the embodiments according to Figures 3a to 3c, the deformation of the strand 2 relative to the guide device 5 is subjected to friction. Unlike the embodiments according to Figures 3a to 3c, the additional force and / or torque can be absorbed by the additional side section 40.

[0064] Figure 10 A perspective side view of another energy absorption device 41 according to the present invention is shown. The structure and operation mode of the energy absorption device 41 largely correspond to those shown in Figures 8b to 8c. Figure 9b The energy absorption device 36. In this regard, reference is also made to the foregoing description in order to avoid repetition. In contrast, the free branch end 34 of the energy absorption device 41 additionally has a through opening 42. In this embodiment, the through opening 42 is formed by an annular segment 43, which is integrally incorporated into the branch end 34.

[0065] Figure 11 A perspective side view of another steering device 44 according to the invention is shown, the steering device having according to Figure 10Another energy absorption device 41. In terms of structure and operating mode, the steering device 44 largely corresponds to... Figure 4 Steering mechanism 16. In this regard, reference is also made to the preceding description in order to avoid repetition.

[0066] In this embodiment, the fastening device 13 and the retainer 14 are connected to each other by two connecting devices 47. Each of these connecting devices 47 has a predetermined breaking device 45.

[0067] The following figure shows details B of the steering device 44.

[0068] Figure 12 It shows that according to Figure 11 Partial transparent detail B of the steering device 44 according to the invention. The predetermined breakage device 45 has a through hole 46. The through hole 46 and the through opening 42 of the energy absorption device 41 are designed or aligned to correspond to each other, such that a fastening device (not shown here), such as a screw, can be inserted through the through hole 46 and through the through opening 42. In this way, the branch end 34 of the strand 2 can be connected to the fastening device 13 in a simple and efficient manner.

[0069] List of reference numerals

[0070] 1. Energy absorption device

[0071] 2 strands

[0072] 3 First Branch

[0073] 4. Second Branch

[0074] 5. Guiding device

[0075] 6 First guiding section

[0076] 7 Second guide section

[0077] 8 First end

[0078] 9. Folding section

[0079] 10 Second End

[0080] 11 Folding section

[0081] 12 workpieces

[0082] 13 Fastening devices

[0083] 14. Holder

[0084] 15 arrows

[0085] 16. Steering mechanism

[0086] 17 Steering Column

[0087] 18 Free End

[0088] 19. Regulation mechanism

[0089] 20 leverage

[0090] 21 arrows

[0091] 22 slots

[0092] 23 Flange

[0093] 24 Flange

[0094] 25 workpieces

[0095] 26 Energy Absorption Device

[0096] 27 boards

[0097] 28 Flange components

[0098] 29 First Wall (First Guiding Section)

[0099] 30 Second wall (second guide section)

[0100] 31 Sidewall

[0101] 32 Sidewall

[0102] 33 Edge

[0103] 34 Branch End

[0104] 35 workpieces

[0105] 36 Energy Absorption Device

[0106] 37 boards

[0107] 38 First branch flange (first guiding section)

[0108] 39 Second branch flange (second guide section)

[0109] 40 Side section

[0110] 41 Energy Absorption Device

[0111] 42 Through opening

[0112] 43. Circular section

[0113] 44 Steering mechanism

[0114] 45. Pre-determined fracture device

[0115] 46 Through Holes

[0116] 47 Connecting Section

[0117] A Figure 5 Details

[0118] B Figure 11 Details

Claims

1. An energy absorbing device arranged between a fastening device (13) and a holder (14), wherein The energy absorption device is formed from a single semi-finished product (12, 25, 35) and / or sheet metal element.

2. The energy absorbing device of claim 1, wherein, The energy absorption device is formed from a single semi-finished product (12, 25, 35) and / or sheet metal element by means of punching and / or reshaping.

3. The energy absorbing device of claim 2, wherein, The strand (2) and the guide device (5) are formed from sections of the semi-finished product (12, 25, 35) and / or sheet metal element.

4. The energy absorbing device of claim 2, wherein, At least one first end (8) of the strand (2) is incorporated in the guide device (5) in one piece.

5. Energy absorbing device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that A first end (8) of the first branch (3) of the strand (2) is incorporated in a first guide section (6, 29, 38) of the guide device (5) in one piece.

6. The energy absorbing device of claim 5, wherein, The first end (8) of the first branch (3) is incorporated in the first guide section (6, 29, 38) by means of a fold (9).

7. The energy absorbing device of claim 5, wherein, At least one guide section (6, 7, 29, 30, 38, 39) of the guide device (5) is designed as a U-shaped or H-shaped strip section.

8. Energy absorbing device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The first guide section (6, 29, 38) and the second guide section (7, 30, 39) of the guide device (5) are each designed as a strip section with a U-shaped or H-shaped cross section.

9. The energy absorbing device of claim 8, wherein, The guide device (5) is designed with a U-shaped cross section.

10. The energy absorbing device of one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, A first branch flange of the guide device (5) forms a first guide section (38) and a second branch flange of the guide device (5) forms a second guide section (39), wherein the two guide sections (38, 39) are connected to one another by means of a side section (40) of the guide device (5) and the lateral guidance of the strand (2) is carried out by means of the side section (40).

11. The energy absorbing device of claim 10, wherein, The guide device (5) is designed with a tubular and / or rectangular cross section.

12. The energy absorbing device of one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, ​ 13. The energy absorbing device of claim 12, wherein, A first wall of the guide device (5) forms a first guide section (29) and a second wall of the guide device (5) forms a second guide section (30), wherein the two guide sections (29, 30) are connected to each other by at least one of the two side walls (31, 32) of the guide device (5) and the lateral guiding of the strand (2) is carried out by at least one of the two side walls (31, 32) or by the two side walls (31, 32).

14. A steering device for a vehicle, having a fastening device (13) for fastening to a vehicle carrier or vehicle body and having a holder (14) for holding a steering column (17), the holder (14) having at least one connection section (47) for connection to the fastening device (13), and the steering device having at least one energy-absorbing device (1, 26, 36, 41) according to one of claims 1 to 13, having deformable strands (2) for absorbing energy and a guide device (5) for guiding the strands (2) during deformation, characterized in that The strand (2) and the guide device (5) are formed as a single piece.

15. The steering device of claim 14, wherein The guide device (5) has a first guide section (6, 29, 38) and a second guide section (7, 30, 39), wherein one of the two guide sections (6, 7, 29, 30, 38, 39) is firmly connected to the fastening device (13) and the respective other guide section (6, 7, 29, 30, 38, 39) is firmly connected to the holder (14) or is assigned to the holder (14) for mutual displacement.

16. The steering device of claim 15, wherein The mutual displacement takes place after the predetermined breaking section (45) has been broken.

17. A method for producing an energy absorbing device (1, 26, 36, 41) according to one of claims 1 to 13 and / or a steering device (16, 44) according to one of claims 14 to 16, wherein The energy-absorbing device (1, 26, 36, 41) is formed in one piece from a single semi-finished product (12, 25, 35) and / or a sheet metal element.

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