Energy absorption component for a motor vehicle, and assembly for a motor vehicle comprising energy absorption components of this kind

Abstract

The invention describes an energy absorption component (1) for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, which energy absorption component (1) is assembled as a hollow profile composed of two shell components (2, 3), the first shell component (2) of which, as an outer shell, has a U-shaped cross-sectional geometry and the second shell component (3) of which, as an inner shell, is arranged so as to engage in the open side of the first shell component (2) and is connected to the limbs (4, 5) of the first shell component (2). A particular characteristic of this energy absorption component (1) is that the energy absorption component (1) has at least one predetermined buckling section S1, S2, at which the energy absorption component (1), in the event of energy absorption in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component (1), buckles in the direction transverse to its longitudinal extent, which predetermined buckling section S1, S2 is provided in each case by a horizontal bead (14, 14.1; 15, 15.1) in each limb of the first shell component (2), the horizontal beads being situated opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption component (1), each being designed as a positive structure and engaging over the second shell component (3), and by a weakened structural portion, which interacts with the horizontal beads (14, 14.1; 15, 15.1) of the first shell component (2, 2.1) to enable buckling, on the second shell component (3) in the section spanned by the horizontal beads.

Description

[0001] Energy absorption component for a motor vehicle and assembly for a motor vehicle with such energy absorption components

[0002] The invention relates to an energy absorption component for a vehicle, which is composed of two shell components as a hollow profile. The first shell component, as the outer shell, has a U-shaped cross-sectional geometry, and the second shell component, as the inner shell, is arranged to engage the open side of the first shell component and is connected to the legs of the first shell component. The invention further relates to an assembly for a motor vehicle comprising such energy absorption components.

[0003] To protect the vehicle's safety cell and components located in front of it, such as the engine, radiator, and the like, motor vehicles are equipped with a bumper assembly, at least in the front section. Such a bumper assembly includes a bumper crossmember that extends across the width of the vehicle. This crossmember is connected to the vehicle's chassis via two energy-absorbing components, typically two so-called crash boxes, spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis of the bumper crossmember. These energy-absorbing components serve to absorb energy in the event of an impact through plastic deformation.

[0004] Traditionally, energy absorption components are typically connected to a longitudinal member of the chassis. The primary load path (first load path) for absorbing kinetic energy in the event of a collision runs along this component. Efforts to design vehicles to be collision-compatible have led to the need to absorb impact energy over a larger vertical extent (z-direction) and, potentially, also over a larger horizontal extent (x-direction). For this purpose, crash management systems have been developed that, in addition to a primary load path, have one or even two secondary load paths (secondary load paths) spaced vertically (z-direction) apart from it. These secondary load paths are essentially designed in the same way as the primary load path. Two energy absorption components, spaced apart in the y-direction, are also arranged within the secondary load path.These are supported on one side by a bumper crossmember and on the other side by the chassis of the vehicle and also absorb impact energy through plastic deformation in the event of an impact.

[0005] Such energy-absorbing components, especially those of the main load path, are designed to form folds through compression for energy absorption, resulting in an accordion-like compression. For the second load path, energy-absorbing components are sometimes used that are designed to buckle in the y-direction upon impact, absorbing impact energy through this deformation.

[0006] Crash management systems with two or more load paths are primarily used to improve crash management in the event of a frontal collision. Such accident scenarios most often occur with two oncoming vehicles. The unique aspect of this type of collision is that it involves only a partial overlap between the two vehicles. This type of accident scenario is tested using the so-called MPDB test (Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier) with a 50% overlap. Such an impact places particularly high demands on the vehicle's crash management system.

[0007] Energy absorption components are hollow profiles that can be a section of an extruded hollow chamber profile made of a suitable aluminum alloy. In other embodiments, such energy absorption components are manufactured from steel sheets in a shell construction. If energy absorption components are made from two shells, they are typically two half-shells whose buttresses abut and are joined together. To facilitate joining two such half-shells, the two half-shells can have outwardly projecting connecting flanges. In such a case, the half-shells have a hat-shaped profile.

[0008] From EP 4 209 393 A1, an energy absorption component is known in which the two U-shaped profiled half-shells are inserted into one another and joined together. Therefore, this previously known energy absorption component has a U-shaped profiled outer shell into which the legs of the second, also U-shaped profiled, half-shell engage. The open sides of the two half-shells of this previously known energy absorption component face in the transverse direction (y-direction) of the vehicle. Vertical and horizontal corrugations are embossed into the vertical and horizontal walls, respectively. The vertical corrugations are opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component in the walls facing in the y-direction, but are offset from the horizontal corrugations in the longitudinal axial direction of the energy absorption component.These corrugations serve to support a folding mechanism in the event that energy absorption is required in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component. The energy absorption components described in this prior art are those of the main load path and are inserted between a bumper crossmember and a longitudinal member of the chassis.

[0009] EP 3 527 435 B1 discloses an energy absorption component made from an extruded profile, in which a groove-shaped recess is incorporated into its vertical wall facing the center of the bumper crossmember. This recess serves to induce deformation. DE 10 2012 1 1 1 671 A1 describes a stiffening beam designed as a square tube, which has a groove in a vertical wall in its front end region, formed as a negative structure. This weakens the square tube. In a frontal impact, this weakening serves to cause a defined buckling.

[0010] From JP 2008-100549 A1, another energy absorption component according to the preamble of claim 1 is known. This energy absorption component, composed of two half-shells, forms a hollow profile with a square cross-sectional area. Triangular projections are embossed in the cross-section of the side walls of this energy absorption component as positive structures. These projections combine to form a ring in the adjacent side walls of the energy absorption component. A trapezoidal indentation, visible in plan view, is located in the corners formed by the side walls. Thus, this energy absorption component is designed like an accordion. In the case of energy absorption in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component, the projections serve as a folding mechanism for defined energy absorption, in which the energy absorption component is compressed in the direction of its longitudinal extent.

[0011] EP 4 049 902 A1 describes a bumper assembly for a motor vehicle. The bumper assembly comprises a crossmember and crash boxes arranged at each end of the crossmember. The crash boxes are composed of two interlocking half-shells and have positive and negative ribs oriented transversely to the longitudinal direction of the energy absorption component to create a defined folding action in the event of energy absorption. Adjacent side walls have a rib oriented in opposite directions, such that a negative rib is present in one side wall and a positive rib is present in the adjacent side walls. In the event of energy absorption along the longitudinal direction of the energy absorption component, this previously known crash box is compressed in a bellows-like manner.

[0012] Based on the prior art discussed above, the invention aims to propose an energy absorption component and an assembly with such energy absorption components that are not only suitable for switching into a second load path, but can also be manufactured cost-effectively and easily, and can also be adapted to vehicle-specific requirements without major effort.

[0013] The problem relating to the energy absorption component is solved according to the invention by an energy absorption component of the type mentioned above, having the features of claim 1. The problem relating to the assembly is solved according to the invention by an assembly having the features of claims 14 or 16.

[0014] The directional terms used in this description – the x-direction, the y-direction, and the z-direction – are the coordinate directions of a vehicle, where the x-direction represents the longitudinal extent, the y-direction the lateral extent, and the z-direction the vertical extent (vertical axis) of the vehicle. This coordinate system is applied in the same way to the description of the energy absorption component according to the invention.

[0015] This energy absorption component, formed from two shell parts, has at least one predetermined buckling section. This section serves to induce buckling of the energy absorption component in a crash, that is, when energy is absorbed along the longitudinal direction of the component. The predetermined buckling section is designed so that buckling occurs transversely to the longitudinal direction of the energy absorption component. Depending on the design of the predetermined buckling section, in the event of an impact transverse to the energy absorption direction, it buckles in one direction or the other, or, if several predetermined buckling sections are provided, alternately in one direction or the other. The direction of buckling can be selected depending on the installation of the energy absorption component.If such an energy absorption component is installed between a bumper crossmember and the vehicle chassis, it can buckle in the y-direction or the z-direction, depending on its installation position. Buckling in the z-direction can occur upwards or downwards, and buckling in the y-direction can occur outwards or inwards relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. This allows the available installation space to be used so that, in the event of energy absorption, buckling occurs in a direction where, ideally, no or only minimal resistance is expected. This prevents the energy absorption component from buckling towards the radiator, which may be located adjacent to it.If such an energy absorption component has, for example, several such predetermined buckling sections, then these are designed so that the energy absorption component buckles in opposite directions at adjacent predetermined buckling sections.

[0016] In this energy absorption component, such a predetermined buckling section is defined by a horizontal rib incorporated as a positive structure into each leg of the U-shaped profiled first shell component. The horizontal ribs are arranged opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption component and the longitudinal axis of the first shell component, respectively. These horizontal ribs of the first shell component overlap the second shell component, which is inserted into the open side of this first shell component, in the y-direction; thus, the horizontal ribs project beyond the second shell component in the y-direction. This utilizes the special design of the energy absorption component with its two shell components, the second of which is arranged as an inner shell, engaging into the open side of the first shell component.These positive structures, which project from the horizontally extending legs of the first shell component—that is, from the horizontal walls—of the energy absorption component, create a buckling system by extending over the outer surface of the second shell component, pointing in the direction of the overlap and thus in the y-direction. Depending on the design of the intended buckling section, this buckling system can be designed as a folding system if the buckling system is intended to react to compression, or as a material reservoir for expansion if the buckling system is designed as an expansion structure. The buckling axis itself runs in the vertical direction (z-direction) or is inclined relative to it by one degree.Additionally, in the section of the energy absorption component where the horizontal ribs of the first shell component overlap the second, there is a structural weakening acting in the x-direction, typically in the vertical wall of the energy absorption component provided by the second shell component. This structural weakening, in conjunction with the buckling mechanism provided by the horizontal ribs, ensures a defined buckling of the energy absorption component when energy absorption is required. This structural weakening is caused by a break in the connection between the two shell components, resulting from the horizontal ribs being designed as positive structures, since the ends of the second shell component facing the legs of the first shell component are unstructured and therefore do not engage with the ribs. Typically, both shell components will be made of a suitable steel material.These components are typically joined by welding to form the energy-absorbing component, which is designed as a hollow chamber profile. In the area of ​​structural weakening, the two shell components are not joined; thus, there is a weld interruption in the intended buckling section.

[0017] Each of the two shell components can itself be composed of several individual parts. Typically, however, the shell components are each formed from a single sheet of metal.

[0018] The concept of assembling the energy absorption component from two shell components, one of which is an outer shell and the other an inner shell, allows the second shell component, serving as the inner shell, to be designed in the area of ​​structural weakness as a transversely (z-direction) unstructured strip of material. This means that in this section of the second shell component, this strip has no formed-on legs and is therefore not U-shaped. According to a preferred embodiment, the second shell component is designed as such a strip adjacent to the area of ​​structural weakness up to its longitudinal end. This strip contacts the inner surfaces of the legs of the first shell component, serving as the outer shell, with its z-direction-facing joints.The legs typically overlap not only the section of the structural weakening with its horizontal ribs, but also, in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the energy absorption component, this entire section, especially if the second shell component extends from the structural weakening to one end as a transversely unstructured strip of material. This overlap creates two fillets where the two shell components meet, allowing both shell components to be easily joined in this section using fillet welds. A key advantage of the overlap of the legs of the first shell component over the outer edge of the second shell component is that it can be used to adjust the stiffness of the energy absorption component in this section to meet the specific vehicle requirements.A larger overhang provides stiffening for this section compared to a smaller overhang. Furthermore, the overlap width can vary over such an overlap section extending in the x-direction, for example, increasing or decreasing towards the end. Naturally, other contours of the overlap between the legs of the first shell component and the second shell component are also possible. Moreover, such a design of the energy absorption component with its outer shell allows the energy absorption component to be connected to a bumper crossmember or a chassis component, such as a longitudinal member or a longitudinal member section with surface sections of its outer legs, at least in one end section, without existing welds interfering with a surface contact against a mating contact surface.

[0019] Instead of or in addition to a break in the connection between the two shell components, the structural weakening can also be achieved by a reduced material thickness, at least in the area of ​​the structural weakening, for example, in the second shell component. According to another embodiment, the second shell component has a vertical rib as a negative structure (viewed from the outside) to provide the intended buckling section. Such a structural weakening with respect to the desired buckling of the energy absorption component in the event of energy absorption is particularly easy to achieve if the second shell component is designed as a strip in the area of ​​the structural weakening and thus unprofiled in its transverse direction. Such a vertical rib extends over the entire height of the second shell component.It is also quite possible for the second shell component to have a U-shaped profile in a predetermined buckling section, but to provide the intended structural weakening in the predetermined buckling section, it has a vertical rib.

[0020] Due to the horizontal ribs of the first shell component and the structural weakening on the side of the second shell component to create a predetermined buckling section, it follows that the side of the energy absorption component opposite the structural weakening is not designed in such a way as to eliminate the asymmetry in energy absorption in the y-direction achieved by the structural weakening. Therefore, if the energy absorption component is designed so that the predetermined buckling section of the buckling system is for folding, the energy absorption component is more shear-stiff on its outer side opposite the structural weakening in the y-direction than on the other side. To support the buckling behavior of the energy absorption component, the horizontal ribs, which are incorporated as positive structures into the legs of the first shell component, terminate before the transition of the legs into the ridge connecting them.Therefore, the edges typically formed with a radius between the legs and the back of the first shell component remain as shear-stiffening elements. If the buckling point of a predetermined buckling section is designed as an expansion section, a vertical rib, designed as a negative structure, is embossed into the back of the first shell component.

[0021] The design of the energy absorption component with an outer shell and an inner shell also allows for a configuration where both shell components have a U-shaped profile in one end section, with the two open sides of these shell components facing each other. This means that the legs of the second shell component engage with the first shell component, but only with a portion of their height. The end section of the energy absorption component on this side then has two surface sections extending in the y-direction, unaffected by welds, provided by the outer surfaces of the opposing backs of the two profiled shell components. This allows for the design of an energy absorption component where the contact surfaces at one end are located in the xy-plane and those at the other end are located in the zx-plane.The latter end section, in which the outer shell's legs do not overlap the inner shell, can be used, for example, to connect to a vehicle chassis by inserting the end section into the open end of a longitudinal member and then clamping both components together in the y-direction with, for example, a bolt. The other end section, with its outer contact surfaces provided by sections of the legs of the first shell component in the xy-plane, serves to connect the energy absorption component to a bumper crossmember. If the energy absorption component is intended to be clamped to the longitudinal member of a vehicle chassis using a clamping bolt, a spacer sleeve is typically arranged between the backs of the two shell components. Such a contact surface arrangement has a beneficial effect on the intended deformation in the event of a frontal impact.

[0022] In a further development of the aforementioned energy absorption component with its predetermined buckling section for buckling in the event of energy absorption, where the buckling typically occurs outwards in the y-direction, the energy absorption component is provided with a second predetermined buckling section at which, in the event of energy absorption, the energy absorption component buckles in the opposite direction. Such an energy absorption component is then deformed into an S-shape in the event of energy absorption. As a result, significantly higher, crack-free energy absorption is possible. Such a second predetermined buckling section can be provided by incorporating a vertical rib as a negative structure into the back of the first shell component. This vertical rib typically extends over the entire height of the first shell component.Due to the preferred design of this vertical rib, which extends over the entire height of the first shell component, the edge between the back and its legs, which is typically rounded, is interrupted. To further support buckling initiation in this second intended buckling section, horizontal ribs, preferably opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first shell component, are preferably provided as positive structures in the two legs of the first shell component. These ribs overlap the second shell component in the y-direction. These horizontal ribs provide a material constraint to enable buckling movement in the area of ​​the vertical rib introduced into the first shell component through elongation.Further support for the desired buckling in this intended buckling section can be achieved by providing, in the section of the second shell component which overlaps with these second horizontal ribs of the first shell component, in addition to a connection interruption between the two shell components caused by the horizontal ribs, the second shell component in this intended buckling section with a vertical rib, typically as a negative structure.

[0023] Such an energy absorption component is particularly suitable for smaller cross-sectional energy absorption components, especially those required for integration into a secondary load path for energy absorption in the x-direction. By precisely adjusting the wall thickness, the buckling of this energy absorption component can absorb more or less energy compared to an energy absorption component of the same cross-sectional area, where energy is absorbed solely through the formation of a fold structure. Therefore, in a typical application, such energy absorption components are intended to be part of a vehicle assembly, in which they are integrated into the secondary load path between a bumper crossmember and the vehicle chassis.Such an assembly then comprises two further energy absorption components, typically with a larger cross-sectional area, arranged in a plane above or below the plane of the energy absorption components for the second load path. The energy absorption components of the first load path—the main load path—and those of the second load path can be supported by the same bumper crossmember or by separate crossmembers. The design of such an energy absorption component with its two shell components allows for a configuration in which the first shell component is primarily responsible for energy absorption and the second shell component primarily for buckling loads. Alternatively, either the first or the second shell component can be used as a common component if the other shell component is to be designed differently to adapt to vehicle-specific requirements.

[0024] Such an energy-absorbing component can also be used elsewhere in a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, for energy absorption. An example of such an energy-absorbing component is the axle carrier. The longitudinal extension of the energy-absorbing component then does not necessarily run in the x-direction of the vehicle but can typically be arranged at an angle to this direction of travel.

[0025] The invention is described below with reference to an exemplary embodiment and the accompanying figures. These show:

[0026] Fig. 1: A perspective view of an energy absorption component for a motor vehicle composed of two shell components according to a first embodiment,

[0027] Fig. 2: the two shell components of the energy absorption component of Figure 1 in the manner of an exploded view,

[0028] Fig. 3 : a top view of the energy absorption component of Figure 1 ,

[0029] Fig. 4: a bottom view of the energy absorption component of Figure 1 ,

[0030] Fig. 5: a perspective view of an energy absorption component for a motor vehicle composed of two shell components according to a further embodiment, Fig. 6: the two shell components of the energy absorption component of Figure 5 in the manner of an exploded view,

[0031] Fig. 7: a top view of the energy absorption component of Figure 5,

[0032] Fig. 8: a bottom view of the energy absorption component of Figure 5 and

[0033] Fig. 9 : a perspective view of an energy absorption component for a motor vehicle composed of two shell components according to yet another embodiment.

[0034] An energy absorption component 1, also known as a crash box, for a motor vehicle is installed between a bumper crossmember and the vehicle's chassis. In the event of an impact, particularly a frontal impact, where all the energy is transferred into the energy absorption component 1 in the x-direction, energy is absorbed by the energy absorption component 1. The energy absorption component 1 is composed of two shell components 2 and 3. The first shell component 2 has a U-shaped cross-section and comprises two legs 4 and 5, as well as a back 6 connecting the two legs 4 and 5. The open side of the shell component 2 faces in the y-direction. The first shell component 2 serves as the outer shell of the energy absorption component 1, since the second shell component 3 engages with or is inserted into the open side of the shell component 2. The shell component 3 therefore represents an inner shell of the energy absorption component 1.Shell component 3 engages with shell component 2 along its entire longitudinal extent. In the illustrated embodiment, the legs 4 and 5 of shell component 2 have different heights. In an overlapping section 7, the legs 4 and 5 have a greater height than in the adjacent section 8. The opposite end section of the overlapping section 7 serves to connect the energy absorption component 1 to a bumper crossmember. The opposite end section of section 8 serves to connect the energy absorption component to the chassis of a vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the end section of section 8 is designed so that it can be inserted, for example, into the open end of a longitudinal beam designed as a hollow profile.A body-specific connection is also conceivable at this point, for example by means of an adapter or other suitable connection means. The front connection of the energy absorption component can be either horizontal, for example to a bumper crossmember, or a vertical connection via a top and / or bottom contact surface 9, which is part of leg 4 or 5.

[0035] The contact surface 9 of leg 4 is indicated by a grid pattern in Figure 1. This connects the energy absorption component 1, shown in this embodiment to buckle in the y-direction, to a bumper crossmember with contact surfaces in the xy-plane. Contact surfaces in the xz-plane, on the other hand, serve to connect the energy absorption component 1 to a longitudinal member of the vehicle chassis. One contact surface is located on the outside of the back 6, and the opposite contact surface is part of the second shell component 3. The contact surface of the shell component 3 is also indicated by a grid pattern in Figure 1. In section 8, where legs 4 and 5 of the shell component 2 have a reduced height, the shell component 3 also has a U-shaped profile. Its legs 1 1 , 12 only dip into the open side of the shell component 2 with a section of their height.In this section 8, shell component 3 is therefore not overlapped by the legs 4, 5 of the first shell component 2. The back 13 connecting the two legs 11, 12 provides the contact surface 10 with its outer surface.

[0036] Two horizontal ribs 14, 14.1, 15, 15.1, spaced apart in the x-direction, are embossed into the legs 4, 5 of the first shell component 2, which serves as the outer shell. In the installation position, when the energy absorption component 1 is inserted between a bumper crossmember and the longitudinal member of the chassis of a vehicle, the back 6 of the shell component 2 points outwards in the transverse direction (y-direction), as shown in the figures, while the back 13 of the shell component 3 points towards the center of the vehicle axis. The shape of the horizontal ribs 14, 14.1; The horizontal ribs 15, 15.1 extend in the z-direction towards the outside of the legs 4, 5 and thus, as can be seen in Figure 1, represent positive structures on the outside of the energy absorption component 1. The horizontal ribs 14, 14.1; 15, 15.1 are located in the overlap section 7. In the overlap section 7, the legs 4, 5 overlap with their horizontal ribs 14, 14.1; 15, 15.1. The shell component 3. The energy absorption component 1 can also be installed rotated 90 degrees about its longitudinal axis relative to the installation position shown in the figures, between a bumper crossmember and the chassis of a vehicle. Buckling then occurs in the z-direction.

[0037] The horizontal ribs 14, 14.1 extend in the y-direction with the depth line of their embossing to the edge of the legs 4, 5 pointing away from the back 6 and therefore overlap the intervening sections of the second shell component 3. In the direction of the back 6, the horizontal ribs 14, 14.1; 15, 15.1 terminate with their depth line before the radiused transition of the legs 4, 5 into the back 6. In the section of the second shell component 3 located between the two horizontal ribs 14, 15, a structural weakening is provided to create a predetermined buckling section Si, S2 for buckling the energy absorption component in the y-direction. In the illustrated embodiment, this structural weakening is provided by a vertical rib 16 incorporated into the shell component 3. This is designed as a negative structure and extends over the entire height of shell component 3.The horizontal ribs 14, 14.1 further stipulate that the two shell components 2, 3 are not connected to each other in the predetermined buckling section S1 over their span extending in the x-direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the span of the horizontal ribs 14, 14.1 in the x-direction corresponds to that of the vertical rib 16. In the sections adjacent to the vertical rib 16, the two shell components 2, 3 are welded together. In section 8, the welding takes place at the edge formed by the y-direction end of the legs 4, 5 of the first shell component 2 with the legs 11, 12 of the second shell component 3. In the overlap section 7, the two shell components 2, 3 are welded together along the contact point of the two shell components 2, 3.The design of the energy absorption component 1 with regard to the positioning of its welded joints makes it clear that the contact surfaces 9, 10 are free of welds.

[0038] The horizontal ribs 14, 14.1 and the structural weakening involving the vertical rib 16 provide a first predetermined buckling section Si, the buckling axis of which runs vertically or at least almost vertically (z-direction). In the event of a frontal impact, the predetermined buckling section Si is thus provided by the asymmetric weakening in the y-direction, at which the energy absorption component 1 buckles outwards in the y-direction, relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis, as indicated by a block arrow in Figure 1. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4, the back 6 of the first shell component is unstructured on its side opposite the vertical rib 16 of the second shell component 3. If the energy absorption component 1 is installed rotated 180 degrees about its longitudinal axis, it buckles inwards in its predetermined buckling section Si in the event of energy absorption.

[0039] In the embodiment shown therein, the energy absorption component 1 has a second predetermined bending section S2. This is located in the area of ​​the horizontal ribs 15, 15.1. The horizontal ribs 15, 15.1 transition towards the back 6 of the first shell component 2 into a vertical rib 17, which is incorporated into the back 6 and designed as a negative structure. The U-shaped profile of the shell component 3 ends before the horizontal ribs 15, 15.1. As can be seen from Figure 2, this unprofiled section of the second shell component 3 is designed in the form of a strip and extends to the free end of the overlap section 7. In the section of the shell component 3 spanned by the horizontal beads 15, 15.1, there is a second vertical bead 18 incorporated therein. In the illustrated embodiment, this is designed as a negative structure, but it can also be designed as a positive structure.Due to the horizontal ribs 15, 15.1 of the shell component 2 spanning the vertical rib 18, the two shell components 2, 3 are not welded together in the x-direction, even in the area of ​​the span of these horizontal ribs 15, 15.1. This provides a second buckling section S2, at which the energy absorption component 1 buckles in the opposite direction to the buckling section S1, and thus in the direction of the vehicle's longitudinal axis, in the y-direction (see block arrow in Figures 1 and 3). While the horizontal ribs 14, 14.1 and the interacting vertical rib 16 of the overlapping section S1 are pre-formed according to the type of a one-sided folding design, the buckling section S2 serves as a material reservoir to allow stretching on this side.When the energy absorption component 1 is installed rotated 180 degrees around its longitudinal axis, it then buckles outwards in its intended buckling section S2 and inwards in its intended buckling section S1 when absorbing energy.

[0040] Figures 5 to 8 describe another energy absorption component 1.1, which is fundamentally constructed in the same way as the energy absorption component 1 shown in Figures 1 to 4. Therefore, identical components are used with the same reference numerals, supplemented by the suffix ".1". Different components, however, have different reference numerals.

[0041] Energy absorption component 1.1 differs from energy absorption component 1 with respect to the length of its overlap section 7.1. Overlap section 7.1 extends from the end of energy absorption component 1 on the bumper crossmember side to behind the predetermined bending section S2. Consequently, section 8.1 is longer than section 8 of energy absorption component 1. In both embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 8, the shell component 3 is identical. The distinction between the two energy absorption components 1 and 1.1 is found in the design of shell component 2.1. In its section 8.1, the horizontal corrugations 19, 19.1 extend to the edge of the legs 4.1 and 5.1, respectively, but overlap shell component 3 in this section.

[0042] 8.1 not. However, a further vertical rib 20 is incorporated as a negative structure into the back 6.1 of the shell component 2.1. The horizontal ribs

[0043] 19. 19.1 transition into the vertical rib 20, which is designed as a negative structure. The deformation behavior of the energy absorption component 1.1 corresponds to that of the energy absorption component 1. The buckling directions are also indicated by block arrows in this embodiment (see Figure 5).

[0044] Figure 9 shows another energy absorption component 1.2, which is essentially the same as the energy absorption component 1 shown in Figures 1 to 4. Therefore, the explanations given here apply equally to energy absorption component 1.2. Consequently, identical components with the same reference numerals, supplemented by the suffix ".2", have been used.

[0045] Energy absorption component 1.2 differs from energy absorption component 1 only in the design of its second shell component 3.2. The first shell component is shell component 2 of energy absorption component 1. Unlike shell component 3 of energy absorption component 1, shell component 3.2 does not have a vertical rib in its second predetermined buckling section S2. Due to the horizontal ribs 15, 15.1 spanning this section, the two shell components 2, 3.2 are not connected to each other in the predetermined buckling section S2 in this embodiment either, and are therefore weakened in this section with respect to shell component 3.2. Furthermore, shell component 3.2 differs from that of the preceding figures in that the section of shell component 3...2, in which this is U-shaped profiled, extending from its longitudinal beam-side connection only to the predetermined buckling section S1 and thus to the first predetermined buckling section S1 starting from the end on this side.

[0046] The special design of the energy absorption components 1, 1.1, 1.2 with their shell components 2, 3; 2.1, 3 or 2, 3.2 allows for easy manipulation of the buckling behavior as well as adaptation to the requirements of different vehicle types. This can be achieved, for example, by different designs in the material of the two interacting shell components 2, 3; 2.1, 3 or 2, 3.2, such as their material thickness, their strength properties, or the like. Typically, the material thickness of shell component 3, 3.2 will be designed to be less than that of shell component 2 or 2.1, which serves as the outer shell. In such a design, the shell component 2, 2.1 primarily serves to absorb energy, while the second shell component 3, 3.2 sets the buckling load, i.e., the force required to cause the energy absorption component 1, 1.1 or 1.2 to buckle in the intended buckling sections Si, S2.It is quite possible to interpret the energy absorption component 1 , 1.1 , 1.2 as buckling in its intended buckling sections Si, S2 one after the other, for example, that the energy absorption component first buckles outwards in its intended buckling section S1 in the transverse direction of the vehicle and only then buckles inwards in the y-direction in its intended buckling section S2.

[0047] The invention has been described using exemplary embodiments. Without departing from the scope of protection described by the applicable claims, numerous further embodiments of the inventive concept would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, without these needing to be explained in more detail within the scope of these explanations.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Energy absorption component for a vehicle, which energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 , 1 .2) is composed as a hollow profile of two shell components (2, 3; 2.1 , 3; 2, 3.2), of which the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) has a U-shaped cross-sectional geometry as an outer shell and of which the second shell component (3, 3.2) is arranged as an inner shell engaging in the open side of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) and is connected to the legs (4, 5; 4.1 , 5.1 ) of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ), characterized in that the energy absorption component (1 , 1.1 , 1 .2) has at least one predetermined bending section (Si, S2) at which the energy absorption component (1 , 1.1 , 1.2) in the case of energy absorption in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 , 1 .2) buckles in the transverse direction to its longitudinal extent, which predetermined buckling section (Si, S2) is formed by a joint in each leg of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ), horizontal ribs (14, 14.1 ; 15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1 ) opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 , 1 .2 ), each designed as a positive structure, overlapping the second shell component (3, 3.2) and by a structural weakening on the side of the second shell component (3, 3.2) in the section spanned by the horizontal ribs (14, 14.1 ; 15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1 ) which cooperate with the horizontal ribs (14, 14.1 ; 15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1 ) of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) to buckle, which is provided, wherein the horizontal ribs (14, 14.1 ; 15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1 ) of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) before the transition of the legs (4, 5; 4.1 , 5.1 ) into the back (6, 6.1 ) connecting the two legs (4, 5; 4.1 , 5.1 ).

2. Energy absorption component according to claim 1 , characterized in that the two shell parts (2, 3; 2.1 , 3; 2, 3.2) are welded together.

3. Energy absorption component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the structural weakening is caused by a connection interruption, in particular a weld interruption between the two shell components (2, 3; 2.1 , 3; 2, 3.2).

4. Energy absorption component according to claim 3, characterized in that the second shell component (3.2) is designed, at least in that section, with respect to its longitudinal extent, in which the structural weakening is located, in the manner of a transversely unstructured strip.

5. Energy absorption component according to claim 4, characterized in that the material thickness of the second shell component (3.2) is less than that of the first shell component (2, 2.1) and / or than the sections of the second shell component (3.2) adjacent to the structural weakening, at least in the section of the structural weakening.

6. Energy absorption component according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that in the section with the structural weakening of the second shell component (3, 3.2) a vertical rib (16, 18) extending over the entire height is introduced as a negative structure.

7. Energy absorption component according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, at a longitudinal axial distance to the structural weakening, with respect to the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component (1 , 1.1 , 1.2), the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) has a vertical rib (17, 20) as a negative structure in its back (6, 6.1 ) connecting the two legs (4, 5; 4.1 , 5.1 ) and second horizontal ribs (15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1 ) are incorporated into the two legs (4, 5; 4.1 , 5.1 ) of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption component and designed as positive structures, overlapping the second shell component (3).

8. Energy absorption component according to claim 7, characterized in that in the area of ​​the second horizontal beads (15, 15.1) overlapping the second shell component (3, 3.2) a connection break is provided between the two shell components (2, 3; 2.1 , 3; 2, 3.2).

9. Energy absorption component according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the vertical rib (17) of the first shell component (2, 2.1) extends over its entire height.

10. Energy absorption component according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the second shell component (3, 3.2) has a U-shaped profiled section by two integrally formed legs (11 , 12) and that the second shell component (3, 3.2) engages with this section only with a partial section of the height of its legs (11 , 12) into the first shell component (2, 2.1 ).

11. Energy absorption component according to claim 10, characterized in that the section of the energy absorption component (1 , 1.1 , 1.2) with the U-shaped profiled section of the second shell component (3) as the end section is the connection end for connecting the energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 , 1 .2) to an energy absorption support, for example a longitudinal member of the chassis of a motor vehicle, and surface sections of this end section pointing in and against the buckling direction serve as contact surfaces (10) for the support-side connection.

12. Energy absorption component according to claim 1 1 , characterized in that the surface sections for connecting the energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 ) to a component supported by the energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 , 1 .2 ), for example a bumper cross member, are provided by contact surfaces (9) of the legs (4, 5; 4.1 , 5.1 ) of the first shell component (2, 2.1 ) that point in a transverse direction to the buckling direction.

13. Energy absorption component according to claim 1 or 12, characterized in that the U-shaped profiling of the second shell component (3, 3.2) ends before the section of a structural weakening, starting from its end on this side.

14. Assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one bumper crossmember with two first energy absorption components (1, 1.1, 1.2) arranged at a distance from each other in the longitudinal extension of the bumper crossmember and connected thereto according to the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that the energy absorption components (1, 1.1, 1.2) each have at least one predetermined buckling section (Si, S2) at which the energy absorption component (1, 1.1, 1.2) buckles in the transverse direction to its longitudinal extension in the event of energy absorption in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the energy absorption component (1, 1.1, 1.2), which predetermined buckling section (Si, S2) is connected to each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption component by a (1 , 1 .1 , 1.2) opposite, each designed as a positive structure, overlapping the second shell component (3, 3.2) horizontal rib (14, 14.1 ; 15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1) and by a structural weakening on the side of the second shell component (3, 3.2) in the section spanned by the horizontal ribs (14, 14.1; 15, 15.1; 19, 19.1) that interacts with the horizontal ribs (14, 14.1; 15, 15.1; 19, 19.1) to prevent buckling, and wherein the assembly comprises two further second energy absorption components arranged above or below the first energy absorption components, supported on the at least one or one further bumper cross member and on the chassis side, by which first energy absorption components (1, 1.1, 1.2) a first load path for absorbing impact energy and by which second energy absorption components a second load path to They are provided to absorb impact energy.

15. Assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that the load path running over the second energy absorption components of the This is the main load path for absorbing energy in the event of an impact.

16. Assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising an axle, wherein at least one axle support holding the axle is provided on each side, characterized in that the axle supports are designed as energy absorption components, wherein the energy absorption components (1, 1.1, 1.2) are composed as hollow profiles from two shell components (2, 3; 2.1, 3; 2, 3.2), of which the first shell component (2, 2.1) has a U-shaped cross-sectional geometry as an outer shell and of which the second shell component (3, 3.2) is arranged as an inner shell engaging in the open side of the first shell component (2, 2.1) and is connected to the legs (4, 5; 4.1, 5.1) of the first shell component (2, 2.1), wherein the energy absorption components (1, 1.1, 1 .2) have at least one predetermined bending section (Si, S2) at which the energy absorption component (1 , 1 .1 , 1 .2) in the case of energy absorption in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the energy absorption component (1 , 1.1 , 1.2) buckles in the transverse direction to its longitudinal extent, which predetermined buckling section (Si, S2) is defined by a horizontal rib (14, 14.1; 15, 15.1; 19, 19.1) extending across the second shell component (3, 3.2) and opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption component (1, 1.1, 1.2), each designed as a positive structure, and extending into each leg of the first shell component (2, 2.1), as well as by a structural weakening on the side of the second shell component (3, 3.2) that interacts with the horizontal ribs (14, 14.1; 15, 15.1; 19, 19.1) of the first shell component (2, 2.1) to cause buckling. (14, 14.1 ; 15, 15.1 ; 19, 19.1 ) spanned section is provided.

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