Deformable device for a vehicle

Abstract

A deformable device (102) for installation between a rear edge (106) of a bonnet or hood (104) of a vehicle (100, 200) and a lower portion of a windscreen (104) of the vehicle (100, 200). The deformable device (102) comprises: a deflector (116) configured such that the deflector (116) is raked, when installed, in a rearwards direction relative to the vehicle (100, 200); a mount (128) configured for mounting the deflector (116) to a support portion (124) of the vehicle (100, 200); and an energy-absorbing component (132) configured to absorb kinetic energy imparted to the deflector (116) by an object striking it.

Description

[0001] DEFORMABLE DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a deformable device for a vehicle. Aspects of the invention relate to a deformable device for a vehicle, an integrated mount and energy-absorbing component configured for use with such a deformable device, a deflector configured for use with such a deformable device, and a vehicle comprising such a deformable device.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Various regulatory and quality tests measure forces experienced by, for example, a test sphere impacting a rear region of a vehicle bonnet or hood, as a proxy for pedestrian head impact during an accident.

[0006] It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a deformable device for a vehicle, an integrated mount and energy-absorbing component configured for use with such a deformable device, a deflector configured for use with such a deformable device, and a vehicle comprising such a deformable device, as claimed in the appended claims.

[0009] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a deformable device for installation between a rear edge of a bonnet or hood of a vehicle and a lower portion of a windscreen of the vehicle, the deformable device comprising: a deflector configured such that it is raked, when installed, in a rearwards direction relative to the vehicle; a mount configured for mounting the deflector to a support portion of the vehicle; and an energy-absorbing component configured to absorb kinetic energy imparted to the deflector by an object striking it.

[0010] By absorbing kinetic energy, the deformable device may reduce the peak forces experienced by a test sphere during safety testing.

[0011] The energy-absorbing component may be configured to absorb the kinetic energy by deforming. For example, the deforming may comprise crush-canning, telescoping, compressing, and / or stretching. Deformation may provide a compact option for absorbing kinetic energy, and / or an option that offers predictable energy absorption.

[0012] The energy-absorbing component may comprise a collapsible component. A collapsible component may provide a compact arrangement for absorbing kinetic energy, and / or an arrangement that offers predictable energy absorption. The collapsible component may comprise: a first portion; and a second portion, the second portion being axially offset from the first portion and defining a recess into which the first portion can telescope as the collapsible component collapses.

[0013] The collapsible component may comprise at least one tab extending between the first portion and the second portion, the at least one tab being configured to break as the collapsible component begins to collapse, thereby to allow the first portion to telescope into the recess of the second portion as the collapsible component continues to collapse. The use of such tab(s) may provide a compact arrangement for absorbing kinetic energy, and / or an arrangement that offers predictable energy absorption.

[0014] The deformable device may comprise a plurality of the energy-absorbing components, spaced apart along the deflector. Spacing the energy-absorbing components across the deflector may help spread loads and / or offer improved energy absorption.

[0015] The deflector and the energy-absorbing component may be separate components that are joined together.

[0016] The energy-absorbing component and the mount may comprise an integral component.

[0017] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an integrated mount and energyabsorbing component configured for use with the deformable device of any other aspect.

[0018] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a deflector configured for use with the deformable device of any other aspect.

[0019] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising the deformable device of any other aspect.

[0020] The deflector may extend above a rear edge of a bonnet / hood of the vehicle. For example, at each position across a width of the deformable device, a highest point of the deflector may be positioned rearwardly of the closest portion of the rear edge of the bonnet / hood of the vehicle.

[0021] A forward edge of the deformable device may extend underneath a rear edge of the bonnet / hood of the vehicle. This may help manage water shedding, improve aerodynamics, and / or allow the deformable device to at least partly support the rear edge of the bonnet (hood) during an impact.

[0022] A surface at the rear edge of the bonnet or hood may be flush with, or may appear continuous with, an adjacent surface at or adjacent to a forward edge of the deflector.

[0023] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a deformable device for installation between a rear edge of a bonnet or hood of a vehicle and a lower portion of a windscreen of the vehicle, the deformable device comprising an energy-absorbing component configured to absorb kinetic energy imparted to the deformable device by an object striking it.

[0024] The kinetic energy may be absorbed by deformation of at least part of the deformable device.

[0025] The deformable device may include a portion that extends underneath the rear edge of the bonnet or hood.

[0026] The vehicle may be a sedan, estate car, station wagon, SUV, pickup, utility vehicle, or other road-going vehicle having a bonnet (hood). The bonnet (hood) may be at least 90 cm (3 feet) long as measured along its upper surface.

[0027] In the context of the term “deformable device”, the term “deformable” means capable of changing its shape or configuration in response to an applied force. Optionally, this changing of the shape of the energy-absorbing component may be at least partly inelastic, as this may assist in absorbing kinetic energy. For example, the deformation may be inelastic to the extent that, in the course of the device being tested in accordance with one or more standard testing procedures, at least 20% of the axial deformation of the energy-absorbing component caused by an impact with a test sphere is inelastic. For example, if the energy-absorbing component is initially 100 mm in axial length (i.e., in the direction of expected axial force), and is deformed to minimum of 40 mm axial length during testing, the inelasticity of the energy-absorbing component is such that it will recover no more than 48 mm (i.e., 80% of the 60 mm deformation) upon removal of the object or force that caused the initial deformation. In other implementations, at least 30%, 45%, or 60% of the deformation of the energy-absorbing component is inelastic.

[0028] Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Figure 2 shows a front perspective detail view of the vehicle of Figure 1 , with the bonnet (hood) and other components removed for clarity, the vehicle comprising a deformable device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0033] Figure 3 shows a rear perspective detail view of the vehicle of Figure 1 , with some components removed for clarity; Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a support structure forming part of the deformable device shown in Figures 2 and 3;

[0034] Figure 5 shows a perspective detail view of an energy-absorbing component forming part of the support structure of Figure 4;

[0035] Figure 6 shows a perspective detail view of a rear underside of the energy-absorbing component of Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a vertical section through the energy-absorbing component of Figures 5 and 6;

[0036] Figure 8 shows a front perspective view of first and second test impact positions on the bonnet (hood) of a further vehicle comprising the deformable device of Figures 1 to 7;

[0037] Figure 9 shows a vertical section through the vehicle of Figure 8 including the deformable device shown in Figures 2 to 7, the section being taken through the more central of the test impact positions shown in Figure 8;

[0038] Figures 10 to 13 show the vertical section of Figure 9, during a sequence in which a test sphere impacts the vehicle at the more central of the test impact positions shown in Figure 8;

[0039] Figures 14 to 17 show a vertical section similar to that of Figure 9, the section being taken through the more lateral of the test impact positions shown in Figure 8, during a sequence in which the test sphere impacts the vehicle at the more lateral of the test impact positions shown in Figure 8;

[0040] Figures 18 to 21 show perspective schematic views of a further energy-absorbing component for use with a deformable device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0041] Figures 22 and 23 show schematic vertical sections through a deformable device in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention;

[0042] Figures 24 and 25 show schematic vertical sections through a deformable device in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention;

[0043] Figures 26 and 27 show schematic vertical sections through a deformable device in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention; and

[0044] Figure 28 shows a schematic perspective view of the deformable device of Figures 25 and 26.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] A deformable device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures.

[0047] Figure 1 shows a vehicle 100 comprising a deformable device 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The illustrated vehicle 100 is a road-going car, although the deformable device 102 is applicable to other types of vehicles. The deformable device is particularly useful for vehicles having a bonnet (also known as a hood).

[0048] As shown in Figure 1 , the vehicle 100 includes a bonnet / hood 104 that covers the vehicle’s forward engine bay. The bonnet / hood 104 is hinged near its rear edge 106, such that its front edge 108 can be lifted to provide access to the engine bay. In other embodiments, the bonnet / hood 104 can be hinged or otherwise mounted in other positions. Figures 2 and 3 show perspective views of the deformable device 102 installed on the vehicle 100. The bonnet / hood 104 is omitted from Figures 2 and 3 for clarity. A gutter 1 10 extends laterally behind and beneath the rear edge 106 of the bonnet / hood 104, in the scuttle region of the vehicle 100. The gutter 110 provides space for windscreen wipers (not shown), and includes various apertures for purposes such as allowing the intake of air for the cabin HVAC system and providing a drainage route for water entering the gutter 1 10. The gutter 110 comprises a horizontal base 122, a rear wall 124 rising rearwards at an angle from the base 122, and a front wall 126 rising forwards at an angle from the base 122.

[0049] A windscreen 114 rises rearwards at an angle, from near the upper edge of the rear wall 124. The deformable device 102 is installed between the rear edge 106 of the bonnet / hood 104 and a lower portion of the windscreen 114.

[0050] The deformable device 102 comprises a deflector in the form of a deflector panel 116 extending laterally across the width of the vehicle 100. In the illustrated example, the deflector panel 116 comprises several sub-panels, each formed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA). It will be appreciated that the deflector panel 116 may be formed from other materials) in other embodiments.

[0051] The use of sub-panels for the deflector panel 1 16 also avoids the need for manufacturing a one-piece deflector panel 116, which may be less convenient to ship, store, and handle, although the deflector panel 1 16 can be a one-piece item in other embodiments.

[0052] The deflector panel 116 extends above the rear edge of the bonnet / hood 104 and is raked in a rearward direction relative to the vehicle 100. The angle the main forward surface of the deflector panel 116 makes with the horizontal may be similarto the angle that a lower region of the windscreen 114 makes with the horizontal, although different angles may be employed in other embodiments. The deflector panel 116 is positioned generally forward of, and terminates at a position higher than, the windscreen wipers 112.

[0053] The deformable device can include one or more mounts for mounting the deformable device to the vehicle., and one or more collapsible components for absorbing energy due to an impact on the deflector(s). The mount(s) can be separate components (i.e., separately formed from either or both of the deflector(s) and the collapsible component(s)). Similarly, the collapsible component(s) can be separate components (i.e., separately formed from either or both of the deflector(s) and the mount(s)). Alternatively, any of the deflector(s), mount(s), and / or collapsible component(s) can take the form of a unitary component comprising any one or more of the other components.

[0054] For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 17, and as best shown in Figure 7, the deformable device 102 comprises the deflector panels 116 and a support structure 1 18 that includes both mounts and energyabsorbing components. The support structure 118 takes the form of an elongate structure that extends laterally across the vehicle 100, underneath (when installed) the deflector panels 1 16. The support structure 118 is formed from acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) although it will be appreciated that other materials can be used in other embodiments. An upper region of the support structure 118 includes a laterally extending support surface 120, which is configured to extend underneath and support the deflector panel 116. The deflector panel 1 16 is attached to the support structure 118 by several fasteners (not shown). Each fastener includes a male portion that extends from an underside of the deflector panel 116. Each fastener also includes a female portion formed in (or installed within) the support surface 120, to receive the male portion. In other embodiments, the deflector panel can be connected or attached to the support structure by other means, such as by way of adhesives, clips, fasteners, welding, or the like.

[0055] The deformable device 102 includes several energy-absorbing components, each taking the form of a collapsible member 132. In the illustrated embodiment, each collapsible member 132 extends upwardly from a mount in the form of a mounting foot 128 to join the underside of the support surface 120. Each mounting foot 128 includes an aperture through which a bolt 130 (see Figure 9) is screwed during installation. The bolt 130 is screwed into a threaded aperture formed within the rear wall 124, thereby to hold the mounting foot 128 in place against the rear wall 124.

[0056] The configuration and materials of each collapsible component 132 are selected such that, when the collapsible component 132 is subjected to a sufficient axial compressive force (i.e., in a downward and rearward direction approximately normal to the upper surface of the deflector panel 116), the collapsible component 132 deforms, absorbing kinetic energy as it does so. In the illustrated example, at least a substantial proportion of the deformation is non-elastic, as this helps reduce peak forces experienced by an object impacting the deflector panel, as described in more detail below. Non-elastic deformation can include, for example, inelastic deformation and breakage.

[0057] As best shown in Figures 5 and 6, each collapsible component 132 includes a first portion 152 comprising walls that extend upwardly and slightly outwardly from the mounting foot 128. A first set of tabs 154 extends outwardly from the top of edge of the first portion 152. The collapsible component 132 includes a second portion 156 comprising walls that extend upwardly and slightly outwardly from outer ends of the tabs 154. A second set of tabs 158 extends outwardly from the top edge of the second portion 156. The collapsible component 132 includes a third portion 160 comprising walls that extend upwardly and slightly outwardly from the outer ends of the tabs 158. The third portion 160 joins the support surface 120.

[0058] Third tabs 134 connect the first portion 152 to the second portion 156. Fourth tabs 136 connect the second portion 156 to the third portion 160. The third tabs 134 and the fourth tabs 136 are positioned towards the front edges of the first portion 152, second portion 156, and third portion 160. The third tabs 134 and fourth tabs 136 are thicker than the tabs of the first set of tabs 154 and the second set of tabs 158. The third tabs 134 and fourth tabs 136 are configured such that, during an impact, they do not break, or at least break substantially later than tabs from the first set of tabs 154 and the second set of tabs 158. As such, the third tabs 134 and fourth tabs 136 tend to hold the first portion 152, the second portion 156, and the third portion 160 together while the tabs of the first set of tabs 154 and the second set of tabs 158 are deforming and breaking during impact. This behaviour can be seen in the sequences of Figures 10 to 13 and 14 to 17 described in more detail below. This may result in more predictable collapsing behaviour of the collapsible component 132.

[0059] In at least some embodiments, the collapsible component 132 is configured to pivot backwards as it collapses, for example as a result of forward-positioned connectors such as third tabs 134 and fourth tabs 136. It will be appreciated that other types of connectors can be used in place of third tabs 134 and fourth tabs 136.

[0060] When an axial compressive load is applied between opposite ends of the collapsible member 132, the third portion 160 begins to move towards the mounting foot 128. The force is transferred through the second set of tabs 158, the second portion 156, the first set of tabs 154, and the first portion 152, into the mounting foot 128. The mounting foot 128 is connected to the relatively stiff and strong rear wall 124, which resists the force.

[0061] Because the tabs 154, 158 have less cross-sectional area and extend laterally rather than axially, they are considerably weaker than the first, second and third portions 152, 156, 160 given the direction of the compressive force. As such, the tabs 154, 156 deform due to the compressive force, allowing the second portion 156 to move towards the first portion 152, and the third portion 160 to move towards the second portion 152. The configuration of the first, second, and third portions 152, 156, 160 means that the second portion 156 is able to telescopically move within the first portion 152, and the third portion 160 is able to telescopically move within the second portion 156, as the tabs bend and stretch due to the relative movements between the first, second, and third portions 152, 156, 160.

[0062] With sufficient force, one or more of the tabs 154, 158 exceeds its plastic deformation threshold and fractures. This may start a cascade of further fractures of the remaining tabs 154, 158.

[0063] It will be appreciated that the fracturing of one of more of the tabs 154, 158 may be a function not just of the applied force, but also of the speed with which the force is applied. A high-speed impact, for example, may increase the chance of one or more tabs fracturing at an earlier stage of deformation.

[0064] The deformation and fracture of some or all of the tabs 154, 158 results in the absorption of significant kinetic energy. The extended time over which the tabs deform and fracture also helps reduce the peak loads experienced by an object impacting the deformable device 102, as described in more detail below.

[0065] It will be appreciated that the collapsible member 132 can include more or fewer portions, with more or fewer tabs connecting adjacent portions.

[0066] To install the deformable device 102, the support structure 118 is installed onto the vehicle 100 without the deflector panel 116 being attached to the support structure 118. This may enable easier access to the mounting feet 128, for installing the bolts 130. After the support structure 118 has been installed, the deflector panel 116 is clipped into place by aligning the male portions of the fasteners with the corresponding female portions, and pressing the deflector panel 116 downwards such that the male portions clip into the corresponding female portions. The fasteners can be permanent, in the sense that they cannot be unfastened after installation. Alternatively, the fasteners may be releasable, allowing the deflector plate 116 to be removed from the support structure 118.

[0067] During compliance testing of a vehicle, some jurisdictions require tests involving a test sphere. In one example test, an aluminium test sphere weighing 3.5 kg and having a rubber “skin” is used. An accelerometer is positioned at the centre of the test sphere for recording forces experienced by the sphere during testing.

[0068] The test sphere is “shot” at the bonnet of the vehicle under test, such that impacts the vehicle at a predetermined position, angle and speed, the details of which for different tests are known to the skilled person.

[0069] The accelerometer records the forces that the test sphere experiences during the test. A Head Injury Criterion (HIC) analysis may be performed, using the following known equation: where and t are the initial and final times (in seconds), and acceleration a is measured in gs (standard gravity acceleration). HIC is a non-dimensional energy value based on the deceleration of the test sphere.

[0070] A HIC-15 value is commonly used, in which the time duration (i.e., ft - ti) is 15 ms. To pass one such HIC-15- based test, the calculated HIC-15 value must be less than a predetermined number, such as 700.

[0071] It will be appreciated that different test parameters, and indeed other tests, may be employed to suit different jurisdictional and other requirements.

[0072] For certain vehicles, passing or obtaining superior results in such tests can be challenging. The position and size of a gutter between a rear edge of the bonnet / hood and a lower edge of a windscreen can result in the sphere at least partly entering the gutter and potentially striking the windscreen during such a test. This can result in higher recorded peak forces on the test sphere, which is undesirable even if legal requirements are met.

[0073] Figure 8 shows an elevated front view of the right-hand side of a vehicle 200. The vehicle 200 is similar to the vehicle 100, except that the bonnet / hood of the vehicle 200 includes a raised central section 138. The sections of Figures 9 to 13 are taken through point 162 (see Figure 8), which is positioned near a right-hand edge of the central section 138. The sections of Figures 14 to 17 are taken through point 164 (see Figure 8), which is positioned at a flat portion of the bonnet / hood to the immediate right of the central section 138.

[0074] The vertical sections of Figures 9 to 17 show the gutter 1 10, bonnet / hood 104, windscreen 114, and deformable device 102.

[0075] As shown in the sections of Figures 9 to 13, the rear edge 106 of the bonnet / hood 104 in the central section 138 conceals about half of the frontal and upper surface of the deflector panel 116. As shown in the sections of Figure 14 to 17, the rear edge 106 of the bonnet / hood 104 in the flat area of the bonnet / hood 104 overlaps only the very lower edge of the deflector panel 116.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a vertical section prior to the test commencing.

[0077] Figures 10 to 13 show a sequence involving a test sphere 202 interacting with the bonnet / hood 104 and the deformable device 102 during a test, with the impact being at point 162 of Figure 8. As described above, the test sphere 202 is substantially made of aluminium with a rubber “skin”, and has an accelerometer (not shown) at its centre.

[0078] In Figure 10, the test sphere 202 is moving downwards and to the left, as indicated by arrow 204. In this particular test, the impact position is determined by rolling a sphere the same size as the test sphere down the windscreen 114 until the sphere first touches the vehicle’s bodywork. In this case, that first touch point is at the rear upper edge 168 (see Figure 9) of the deflector panel 116. The impact point of the sphere is 82.5 mm (= half the diameter of the sphere) forward of the first touch point.

[0079] At the point of impact, the kinetic energy of the moving test sphere 202 generates a force on the bonnet / hood 104, in the general direction of the arrow 204.

[0080] In Figure 11 , the impact of the test sphere 202 causes the bonnet / hood 104 to deform downwards, until it comes into contact with the deflector panel 116. The test sphere 202 also comes into direct contact with deflector panel 116.

[0081] In Figure 12, the bonnet / hood 104 continues deforming responsive to the force being transferred from the moving test sphere 202. Force is transferred from the underside of the bonnet / hood 104 to the deformable device 102. In addition, force is transferred directly from the test sphere 202 to the deflector panel 116. In response to downward and rearward movement of the deflector panel 116, the collapsible member 132 begins to collapse. In the illustrated embodiment, the collapsing takes the form of a telescoping of the collapsible member 132 as the tabs 154, 158 begin to bend and stretch, as described above in relation to Figures 5 and 6. The deflector panel 116 moves rearwardly and downwards as the collapsible member 132 telescopically collapses. Energy is absorbed during the collapse.

[0082] In Figure 13, the test sphere 202 has come to rest. The collapsible member 132 has completely collapsed rearwardly and downwardly of its starting position. The gradual collapse of the collapsible member 132 reduced the peak force experienced by the test sphere 202 compared to a similar test without a deflector panel 116. The deflector panel 116 prevented the test sphere 202 from entering the gutter 110.

[0083] Figures 14 to 17 show a sequence involving a test sphere 202 interacting with the bonnet / hood 104 and the deformable device 102 during a test, with the impact being at point 164 of Figure 8. In Figure 14, the test sphere 202 is moving downwards and to the left, as indicated by arrow 204. In this particular test, the impact position is calculated by rolling a sphere the same size as the test sphere down the windscreen 114 until the sphere first touches the vehicle’s bodywork. In this case, that first touch point is again at the rear upper edge 168 of the deflector panel 116. The impact point of the sphere is 82.5 mm (= half the diameter of the sphere) forward of the first touch point.

[0084] At the point of impact, the kinetic energy of the moving test sphere 202 generates a force on the bonnet / hood 104, in the general direction of the arrow 204.

[0085] In Figure 15, the impact of the test sphere 202 causes the bonnet / hood 104 to deform downwards. Compared with the impact at point 162 shown in Figures 10 to 13, the impact at point 164 causes the test sphere 202 to come into contact with the deflector panel 116 sooner.

[0086] In Figure 16, the bonnet / hood 104 continues deforming responsive to the force being transferred from the moving test sphere 202. In addition, force is transferred directly from the test sphere 202 to the deflector panel 116. In response to downward and rearward movement of the deflector panel 116, the collapsible member 132 begins to collapse. In the illustrated embodiment, the collapsing takes the form of a telescoping of the collapsible member 132 as the tabs 154, 158 begin to bend and stretch, as described above in relation to Figures 5 and 6. The deflector panel 116 moves rearwardly and downwards as the collapsible member 132 telescopically collapses. Energy is absorbed during the collapse.

[0087] In Figure 17, the test sphere 202 has come to rest. The collapsible member 132 has completely collapsed rearwardly and downwardly of its starting position. The gradual collapse of the collapsible member 132 reduced the peak force experienced by the test sphere 202 compared to a similar test without a deflector panel 116. The deflector panel 116 prevented the test sphere 202 from entering the gutter 110.

[0088] It will be appreciated that, in other test scenarios involving different heights (from the ground), lengths, and slopes / curves of the bonnet / hood 104, the first contact point of the test sphere 104 may be the deflector panel 116 rather than the bonnet / hood 104. The first contact point can be anywhere on the forward and upper surfaces of the deflector panel 116, for example.

[0089] Other types of collapsible and compressible energy-absorbing components can be employed instead of, or in addition to, the collapsible members 132. For example, the or each energy-absorbing component can be configured to crush-can in response to compression forces placed upon it through the deflector panel 116. “Crush-canning” is a known energy-absorbing mechanism, where one or more elements extending approximately parallel to the direction of the forces intended to be received are formed or configured to encourage a particular type of bending and deformation in response to the application of those forces.

[0090] Figures 18 to 21 show an alternative collapsible member 132, which comprises a frusto-conical base section 142 and a frusto-conical distal section 144. The base section comprises a mounting foot 128, similar to that described above in relation to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 17. The base section 142 is connected to the distal section 144 by way of a radially extending flange 146. The flange 146 is curved in cross-section. The distal section 144 is connected to the underside of the support surface 120 (not shown in Figures 18 to 21) and the mounting foot 128 is bolted to the rear wall 124 (again, not shown in Figures 18 to 21).

[0091] As shown in Figure 19, when an axial compressive load is applied between the ends of the collapsible member 132, the distal section 144 begins to move towards the base section 142. The flange 146 begins to deform to accommodate the difference in axial position between the base section 142 and the distal section 144. The deformation includes, in cross-section, an upper bend 148. Energy is absorbed by the deformation of the flange 146 and the adjacent upper wall of the base section 142.

[0092] As shown in Figure 20, as the distal section 144 continues to move axially in response to the axial compressive load, the base section 142 telescopically moves into an interior of the distal section 144. The upper bend 148 moves down along the upper wall of the base section 142 as the distal section continues to move downwards in response to the axial compressive force. Further energy is absorbed by the deformation of the distal section 144, particularly as a result of the wall of the base section undergoing bending and then straightening as the upper bend 148 moves downwards.

[0093] The upper bend 148 continues to move along the wall of the base section 142 as the distal section 144 continues to move downwards, until the force is removed (or reduced to the point where it no longer causes additional deformation), or the distal section 144 can go no further. Figure 21 shows the latter situation, in which the lower edge 150 of the distal section 144 has come into contact with the upper surface of the rear wall 124 (not shown).

[0094] It will be appreciated that the collapsible member 132 can include one or more additional telescopic sections, each of which is configured to telescopically collapse as described above.

[0095] In some embodiments, the deforming of the energy-absorbing component can comprise compression. For example, the energy-absorbing component can comprise a compressible material or structure. The compressible material or structure can be configured to compress in a way that is at least partially inelastic, as this may help reduce peak forces experienced by the test sphere 202. Examples of such a compressible material include polymers, such as memory foams or the like, or other cellular or open-scaffolding materials capable of being compressed. Such materials may also be designed to absorb force by breaking or crumbling in response to compression.

[0096] In other embodiments, the deforming of the energy-absorbing component can comprise stretching or bending. For example, the energy-absorbing component can take the form of one or more bendable elements, such as a metallic strip or sheet supporting the deflector panel and configured to bend in response to an impact on the deflector panel 116.

[0097] In the context of the term “deformable device”, the term “deformable” means capable of changing its shape or configuration in response to an applied force. Optionally, this changing of the shape of the energy-absorbing component may be at least partly inelastic, as this may assist in absorbing kinetic energy. For example, the deformation may be inelastic to the extent that, in the course of the device being tested in accordance with one or more standard testing procedures, at least 20% of the axial deformation of the energy-absorbing component caused by an impact with the test sphere 202 is inelastic. For example, if the energy-absorbing component is initially 100 mm in axial length (i.e., in the direction of expected axial force), and is deformed to minimum of 40 mm axial length during testing, the inelasticity of the energy-absorbing component is such that it will recover no more than 48 mm (i.e., 80% of the 60 mm deformation). In other implementations, at least 30%, 45%, or 60% of the deformation of the energy-absorbing component is inelastic.

[0098] The use of several energy-absorbing components spaced apart across the deflector panel 1 16 may help spread loads and / or offer improved energy absorption. Relative to the spacing of the energy-absorbing components, the deflector panel 116 and / or the upper support surface 120 are sufficiently rigid to transfer substantially of the forces of the test sphere 202 to the energy-absorbing components. This is the case even if the test sphere 202 impacts the deflector panel 116 at a position laterally halfway between adjacent energyabsorbing components, such that the energy-absorbing components are not aligned with the impact points. Some bending of the deflector panel 116 is acceptable, and may contribute to energy absorption in at least some embodiments.

[0099] The deflector and the energy-absorbing component(s) can be formed from separate components that are joined together. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 17, the deflector is a formed as a separate component (or components, if several sub-panels are employed as described above) to the energy-absorbing component. Similarly, the mount can be formed as a separate component to the deflector and the energyabsorbing component.

[0100] In addition, any of the mount, energy-absorbing component, and deflector can be formed in one piece with any or all of the other components. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, the energy-absorbing component and the mount comprise a one-piece moulded component.

[0101] Figures 22 and 23 show a further embodiment of a deformable device 102, taking the form of a single-piece component in the form of a folded and bent sheet metal component, although it will be appreciated that different materials and / or manufacturing processes may be employed to achieve similar designs. The deflector panel 116 is a flat panel formed from the sheet metal. The support structure 118 is similarly a flat panel, although in some embodiments the mount can take the form of ribbons or fingers of the sheet metal spaced apart along the width of the deformable device 102. The energy-absorbing component 132 takes the form of a vertical region of the sheet metal between the deflector panel 116 and the support structure 1 18.

[0102] Figure 22 shows the deformable device prior to impact with the test sphere 202. Figure 23 shows the deformable device after impact with the test sphere. It will be seen that the energy-absorbing component 132 has bent in response to the impact, while the deflector panel 116 has not bent. This behaviour can be achieved by weakening the energy-absorbing component 132 relative to the deflector panel. For example, holes can be formed in the energy-absorbing component. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more regions of weakness, such as score marks or other thinning or weakening marks, can be formed in or through the energy-absorbing component. Alternatively, or in addition, the energy-absorbing component can be thinned to weaken it relatively to the deflector panel.

[0103] Figures 24 and 25 show a further embodiment of a deformable device 102, taking the form of a single-piece component in the form of a folded and bent sheet metal component. The deflector panel 116 is a flat panel formed from the sheet metal. The support structure 118 is similarly a flat panel, although in some embodiments the mount can take the form of ribbons or fingers of the sheet metal spaced apart along the width of the deformable device 102. In contrast with the embodiment of Figures 22 and 23, the energy-absorbing component 132 in Figures 24 and 25 is integrated with the deflector panel 116. That is, the deflector panel 116 itself deforms to absorb energy during an impact from the sphere 202.

[0104] Figure 24 shows the deformable device prior to impact with the test sphere 202. Figure 25 shows the deformable device after impact with the test sphere. It will be seen that the deflector panel 116 (integrating the energy-absorbing component 132) has bent in response to the impact. This behaviour can be achieved by weakening the deflector panel 116 relative to the rest of the deformable device. For example, holes can be formed in the deflector panel 116. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more regions of weakness, such as score marks or other thinning or weakening marks, can be formed in or through the deflector panel. Alternatively, or in addition, the deflector panel 116 can be thinned to weaken it relatively to the rest of the deformable device.

[0105] Figures 26 to 28 show a further embodiment of a deformable device 102, taking the form of a single-piece component in the form of a folded and bent sheet metal component. The deflector panel 116 is a flat panel formed from the sheet metal. The support structure 118 is similarly a flat panel, although in some embodiments the mount can take the form of ribbons or fingers of the sheet metal spaced apart along the width of the deformable device 102. The energy-absorbing component takes the form of a folded tab 132 connected at one end to the deflector panel 116 and at the other end to the support structure 118.

[0106] Figure 26 shows the deformable device prior to impact with the test sphere 202. Figures 27 and 28 show the deformable device after impact with the test sphere. It will be seen that the folded tab 132 has bent in response to the impact, while the deflector panel 116 has not bent. The folded tab 132 is weaker than the deflector panel 116 as a result of its size and geometry. The folder tab’s relative weakness can be increased by weakening the folded tab 132, for example as described above. A plurality of the folded tabs 132 can be provided spaced apart across the width of the deformable device. The folded tab 132 can be replaced by, for example, a straight or curved tab. One or more weaking formations or initiator regions can be provided to encourage a particular form of deformation, similar to as was described in relation to the crush-canning embodiment of Figures 18 to 20.

[0107] In any of the embodiments of Figures 22 to 28, the deflector panel can be a separate component mounted to the energy-absorbing component.

[0108] It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A deformable device for installation between a rear edge of a bonnet or hood of a vehicle and a lower portion of a windscreen of the vehicle, the deformable device comprising: a deflector configured such that it is raked, when installed, in a rearwards direction relative to the vehicle; a mount configured for mounting the deflector to a support portion of the vehicle; and an energy-absorbing component configured to absorb kinetic energy imparted to the deflector by an object striking it.

2. The deformable device of claim 1 , wherein the energy-absorbing component is configured to absorb the kinetic energy by deforming.

3. The deformable device of claim 2, wherein the deforming comprises crush-canning, telescoping, compressing, and / or stretching.

4. The deformable device of any preceding claim, wherein the energy-absorbing component comprises a collapsible component.

5. The deformable device of claim 4, wherein the collapsible component comprises: a first portion; and a second portion, the second portion being axially offset from the first portion and defining a recess into which the first portion can telescope as the collapsible component collapses.

6. The deformable device of claim 5, wherein the collapsible component comprises at least one tab, extending between the first portion and the second portion, the at least one tab being configured to break as the collapsible component begins to collapse, thereby to allow the first portion to telescope into the recess of the second portion as the collapsible component continues to collapse.

7. The deformable device of any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of the energy-absorbing components, spaced apart along the deflector.

8. The deformable device of any preceding claim, wherein the deflector and the energy-absorbing component are separate components that are joined together.

9. The deformable device of any preceding claim, wherein the energy-absorbing component and the mount comprise an integral component.

10. An integrated mount and energy-absorbing component configured for use with the deformable device of any preceding claim.

11. A deflector configured for use with the deformable device of any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. A vehicle comprising the deformable device of any one of claims 1 to 9.

13. The vehicle of claim 12, wherein the deflector extends above the rear edge of a bonnet or hood of the vehicle.

14. The vehicle of claim 12 or 13, wherein a forward edge ofthe deformable device extends underneath the rear edge of the bonnet or hood of the vehicle.

15. The vehicle according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein a surface at the rear edge ofthe bonnet or hood is flush with, or appears continuous with, an adjacent surface at or adjacent to a forward edge of the deflector.

Images