DE102012101777A1 - Energy absorbing element of vehicle, has inner wall, core and/or outer wall whose thicknesses increase or decrease in direction parallel to longitudinal axis in longitudinal direction and/or circumferential direction of base structure - Google Patents

Abstract

The energy absorbing element (100) has base structure (102) with inner space (114) that is surrounded by ring or jacket. A core (130) is arranged between inner wall (126) and outer wall (128). The inner space is made to face the inner wall. A sandwich structure (124) is formed by inner wall, core and outer wall. The thicknesses of inner wall, core and/or outer wall increase or decrease in direction parallel to longitudinal axis (116) in longitudinal direction (120) and/or circumferential direction (122) of base structure. An independent claim is included for a vehicle.

Description

The present invention relates to an energy absorbing element for absorbing energy, in particular for absorbing impact energy.

Energy absorption elements are used in particular in vehicles, for example in passenger cars, trucks and motorized two-wheelers, application to be able to convert kinetic energy of the vehicle upon impact of the same to an obstacle by deformation of the energy absorbing element and thus protect vehicle occupants from injury.

The present invention has for its object to provide an energy absorbing element which has a low mass and allows a targeted absorption of energy.

This object is achieved in that the energy absorbing element comprises a base body having a perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body taken closed cross-section and surrounding an annular or shell-shaped interior, wherein the base body facing the interior inner wall, an interior facing away from the outer wall and a between the inner wall and the outer wall arranged core, wherein by means of the inner wall, by means of the core and by means of the outer wall, a sandwich structure is formed.

Preferably, the thickness of the inner wall, the thickness of the core and / or the thickness of the outer wall at least partially increases or decreases in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body and / or in a circumferential direction of the base body.

By virtue of the fact that the thickness of the inner wall, the thickness of the core and / or the thickness of the outer wall preferably increases or decreases at least in sections in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body and / or in a circumferential direction of the base body, energy can be selectively absorbed by means of the energy absorption element be specifically deformed by the energy absorption element at a force application.

A closed cross-section in this specification and the appended claims is to be understood as a cross-section which completely surrounds an inner surface.

The terms annular or jacket-shaped, a three-dimensionally closed structure is to be understood, which has any, for example, a round, square or other, basic shape and surrounds a three-dimensional interior at least four interconnected sides.

It may be favorable if the inner wall, the core and / or the outer wall in each case have a closed cross-section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body and surround the inner space in a ring-shaped or jacket-like manner.

The interior is preferably completely surrounded by the inner wall.

The inner wall is preferably completely surrounded by the core.

The core is preferably completely surrounded by the outer wall.

The base body may, for example, have the shape of a straight hollow cylinder with a substantially circular or substantially rectangular base surface. Furthermore, it can be provided that the main body is substantially formed as a hollow truncated cone or a hollow truncated pyramid.

Adjacent walls of the body preferably enclose an angle of at least about 70 °, preferably at least about 80 °, and / or at most about 120 °, for example, at most about 110 °. In particular, it can be provided that adjoining walls of the base body are aligned substantially perpendicular to each other.

A circumferential direction in this description and the appended claims is understood to mean a direction which runs along the base body in a plane taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body.

It can be provided that the thickness of the inner wall, the thickness of the core and / or the thickness of the outer wall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main body extending direction (longitudinal direction) and / or in a circumferential direction of the body at least partially increases substantially continuously and / or at least partially decreases substantially continuously.

Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the thickness of the inner wall, the thickness of the core and / or the thickness of the outer wall is at least partially substantially constant in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body and / or in a circumferential direction of the base body.

It may be favorable if the thickness of the inner wall, the thickness of the core or the thickness of the outer wall increases or decreases in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main body and / or in a circumferential direction of the main body, while the thickness of the core and the thickness of the Outer wall, the thickness of the inner wall and the thickness of the outer wall or the thickness of the inner wall and the thickness of the core are substantially constant.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the thickness of the inner wall and the thickness of the core, the thickness of the inner wall and the thickness of the outer wall or the thickness of the core and the thickness of the outer wall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body and / or in a circumferential direction of the main body increases or decreases, while the thickness of the outer wall, the thickness of the core or the thickness of the inner wall is substantially constant in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body and / or in a circumferential direction of the body.

It may be favorable if the energy absorption element comprises a main body which comprises a core which is isotropic, anisotropic, orthotropic or quasi-isotropic.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the core is at least partially vacuumized.

It may be advantageous if the core of the main body of the energy absorption element is formed from a foam. In this way, an isotropic or quasi-isotropic core can be provided particularly easily. Furthermore, a low-mass core can be provided in this way.

It can be provided that the base body tapers or widens in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body and / or in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base body.

In particular, it may be provided that a cross-sectional area of the main body is reduced or enlarged in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main body and / or in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body.

It may be advantageous if the core comprises at least two mutually different core materials, by means of which different sections of the core are formed from each other.

By a core material is meant in this specification and the appended claims a material having certain chemical and / or physical properties and / or having a particular chemical and / or physical composition. Thus, two different core materials may differ in chemical and / or physical composition and / or chemical and / or physical properties. For example, it can be provided that the core comprises at least two core materials which have mutually different densities.

As a material for the core, in particular a foam, for example polyurethane foam, or a honeycomb structure (honeycomb) made of aluminum, steel or magnesium may be provided.

In general, it can be provided that a core material comprises a foam-like material, wood, aluminum, steel and / or magnesium.

In particular, it can be provided that a core of a foam-like material, made of wood, aluminum, steel and / or magnesium is formed.

The inner wall and / or the outer wall can be formed for example of aluminum, steel and / or magnesium.

In one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the at least two mutually different sections of the core are arranged adjacent to one another with respect to a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body and / or with respect to a circumferential direction of the base body.

It may be favorable if the base body comprises at least one intermediate wall, which is arranged between the inner wall and the outer wall, and at least two cores, wherein at least one core between the inner wall and the at least one intermediate wall is arranged. At least one further core can be arranged between the at least one intermediate wall and the outer wall.

Preferably, the at least one core, which is arranged between the at least one intermediate wall and the outer wall, surrounds the at least one core, which is arranged between the inner wall and the at least one intermediate wall, in particular completely.

It can be provided that at least two cores comprise mutually different core materials.

It may be favorable if the inner wall, the outer wall and / or at least one intermediate wall of the base body comprises at least one triggering device.

In particular, it can be provided that at least one triggering device is designed as a bead, a recess, a depression, a bore, a recess, a notch and / or a bulge.

At least one triggering device preferably extends in a circumferential direction of the base body, in a plane extending essentially perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the base body along the base body and / or substantially spirally about the longitudinal axis and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base body.

It can be provided that the inner wall, the core and / or the outer wall are at least partially plate-shaped, at least partially curved and / or at least partially wavy or wavy.

In particular, it can be provided that the inner wall, the core and / or the outer wall have a rotationally symmetrical basic structure, which is provided with a modulation running in the circumferential direction.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the inner wall, the core and / or the outer wall are formed substantially completely plate-shaped, substantially completely curved or substantially completely wavy or wavy.

It can be provided that the base body is designed to be open at most on one side with respect to the longitudinal axis of the base body.

It may be advantageous if the base body is formed completely closed, so that the interior of the body is completely surrounded by walls of the body.

However, it may also be advantageous if the base body is open at least on one side, in particular on both sides, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the base body.

It can be provided that the base body surrounds several interior spaces.

It may be advantageous if at least one interior is formed on one side or both sides open or closed.

The present invention further relates to a vehicle, for example a passenger car.

The present invention is in this respect the task of providing a vehicle which has a low mass and by means of which energy is specifically absorbed.

This object is achieved according to the invention by means of a vehicle comprising a passenger compartment for receiving at least one passenger and at least one with respect to a direction of travel of the vehicle in front of or behind the passenger compartment arranged energy absorption element, wherein the energy absorption element comprises a base body, which taken perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body has a closed cross-section and surrounds an inner space annular or jacket-shaped, wherein the base body facing the interior inner wall, facing away from the interior outer wall and arranged between the inner wall and the outer core, wherein by means of the inner wall, by means of the core and by means of the outer wall a Sandwich structure is formed and wherein the energy absorbing element forms part of a supporting structure of the vehicle.

Alternatively, the object underlying the present invention is achieved by a vehicle which comprises a passenger compartment for receiving at least one passenger and at least one energy absorption element according to the invention.

A vehicle according to the invention preferably has one or more of the features and / or advantages described in connection with the energy absorption element according to the invention.

It may be favorable if at least two wheels of the vehicle are fixed by means of suspension elements of the vehicle directly to side walls of an energy absorption element. The side walls are preferably arranged opposite one another with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

The vertical longitudinal center plane is preferably a vertical longitudinal center plane of the energy absorption element, the passenger compartment and / or the vehicle.

Under a suspension element is in this description and the appended claims in particular an element to understand, by means of which the wheels are arranged movably on the supporting structure of the vehicle. For example, this may be wishbones, in particular triangular wishbones, dampers, springs, etc., be.

The side walls, which are arranged opposite one another with respect to the vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle, are preferably side walls of the same energy absorbing element.

It can be provided that the energy absorption element comprises an upper wall which is upper in relation to the direction of gravity and which extends in a vehicle transverse direction beyond the side walls of the energy absorption element.

The top wall may be formed horizontally, obliquely, substantially horizontally, stepped or staggered.

The top wall of the energy absorption element then preferably forms a wall, in particular a bottom, of basic bodies of further energy absorption elements, which likewise have a closed cross-section taken perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the respective base body and surround further interior spaces in an annular or jacket-like manner.

It may be favorable if the main bodies of the further energy absorption elements each comprise an inner wall facing the inner space, an outer wall facing away from the inner space and a core arranged between the inner wall and the outer wall, wherein a sandwich structure is formed by means of the inner wall, by means of the core and by means of the outer wall is.

In particular, it can be provided that the further energy absorption elements form side boxes or fenders of the vehicle. In this way, in particular a staggering of the longitudinal rigidity, the transverse rigidity, the torsional rigidity, the bending stiffness and / or the acceleration in the event of a crash can be realized. Furthermore, this can increase the natural vibration frequency.

In one embodiment of the invention it is provided that the further energy absorption elements form part of the supporting structure of the vehicle.

Preferably, the energy absorbing elements together form the substantially complete supporting structure in a front of the vehicle and / or in a rear of the vehicle.

Under a front end of the vehicle is to be understood that portion of the vehicle, which is arranged with respect to the direction of travel in front of the passenger compartment.

Under a rear of the vehicle is to be understood that portion of the vehicle, which is arranged with respect to the direction of travel behind the passenger compartment.

It may be favorable if at least one energy absorption element is arranged on a wall, in particular on the end wall or rear wall, of the passenger compartment of the vehicle such that the longitudinal axis of the main body of the at least one energy absorption element, in particular for the transmission of crash energy, is substantially perpendicular to the wall the passenger compartment is aligned.

In particular, it may be provided that the wall of the base body which surrounds the interior in a ring-shaped or jacket-like manner is oriented at least in sections substantially perpendicular to the surface of the wall of the passenger compartment. The wall of the passenger compartment preferably forms a cover for the interior of the main body of the energy absorption element.

It may be favorable if one end of the main body, which faces the passenger cell with respect to a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main body, is at least partially substantially complementary to the wall of the passenger compartment, so that the main body is completely open along the circumferential direction the wall of the passenger compartment rests and thus forces can be transferred over a large area of the energy absorbing element to the passenger compartment.

It can be provided that the energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, is provided with at least one installation element for arranging at least one wheel suspension element.

Under a built-in element is in particular a so-called "insert" to understand, which forms a local reinforcement of the energy absorption element for arranging at least one suspension element.

In one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, at least in sections plate-shaped and / or at least partially has a curved, wavy or wavy structure.

It can be provided that, in addition to the energy absorption element which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, the vehicle comprises at least one further energy absorption element according to the invention.

It can further be provided that the at least one additional energy absorption element is arranged in the interior of the energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle.

The energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, and the at least one additional energy absorption element preferably have substantially parallel longitudinal axes.

In particular, it may be provided that the longitudinal axis of the energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, extend the longitudinal axis of the at least one additional energy absorption element and / or the direction of travel of the vehicle substantially parallel to one another.

It may be favorable if, by means of the energy absorption element which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, a substantially closed front end and / or a substantially closed rear end of the vehicle is formed.

It may be favorable if the vehicle comprises a passenger compartment which comprises a self-contained ring and a bottom wall arranged below the ring, the ring having a ring inner wall facing the passenger cell interior, a ring outer wall facing away from the passenger cell interior and a ring wall arranged between the ring inner wall and the ring outer wall Ring core comprises, wherein by means of the ring inner wall, by means of the toroidal core and by means of the ring outer wall, a sandwich structure and / or support structure is formed.

The ring inner wall, the ring core, the ring outer wall and the ring itself can preferably have one or more of the features and / or advantages of the inner wall, of the core, of the outer wall or of the energy absorption element itself.

By a ring is meant in this specification and the appended claims a three-dimensional, self-contained structure.

It can be advantageous if the ring is designed as a peripheral carrier, in particular as a circumferential filled carrier.

A support in this specification and the appended claims is to be understood in particular as a load-bearing element which has a ratio between the thickness of the profile and the height of the profile of approximately 0.2 to approximately 5, in particular approximately 0.5 to approximately 2, having.

Preferably, the ring forms part of an outer wall of the passenger compartment. The ring is thus preferably arranged circumferentially in an outer wall of the passenger compartment.

It can be provided that the vehicle comprises at least two seat devices for at least two persons, which are arranged adjacent to one another in a vehicle transverse direction.

It may be favorable if at least one energy absorption region is arranged between the at least two seat devices and / or between at least one of the at least two seat devices and the ring. In particular, it can be provided that the energy absorption region comprises at least one triggering device.

In particular, by means of the energy absorption region, impact energy can be absorbed by deformation of the energy absorption region.

In one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the at least two seat devices are formed by a seat. The seat may for example be arranged continuously between with respect to the longitudinal center plane of the vehicle opposite each other arranged side walls of the passenger compartment, in particular ring side walls of the passenger compartment.

In the region of the seat devices, the seat preferably comprises stiffening structures for stiffening the seat devices in the vehicle transverse direction. Between the seat devices, at least one energy absorption area is preferably formed. For example, it can be provided that the seat is provided in the area between the seat devices with at least one triggering device.

It may be favorable if the energy absorption region is formed by a bottom wall of the passenger compartment, by a center tunnel of the vehicle and / or by a cross member of the vehicle.

In particular, it can be provided that the passenger compartment comprises a substantially U-shaped cross member, which has an energy absorption area, which forms the energy absorption area between the seat devices.

For example, a center tunnel of the vehicle forming an energy absorption area is substantially cuboid. Alternatively, it can be provided that the center tunnel has a perpendicular to the direction of travel of the vehicle taken substantially M-shaped cross-section.

The passenger compartment preferably comprises a bottom wall which is substantially cup-shaped.

In particular, it can be provided that the bottom wall has an edge region, which is formed by the ring.

The ring preferably extends at least approximately in a substantially horizontal plane.

It may be advantageous if the ring is recessed in relation to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle opposite side walls of the passenger compartment. In this way, an entry of people into the vehicle can be facilitated.

It may be advantageous if the passenger compartment comprises at least one vertical ring which extends at least approximately in a substantially vertical plane.

The at least one vertical ring may, for example, extend in a plane which runs essentially perpendicular to the direction of travel.

Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that at least one vertical ring extends in a vertical plane, which with the vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle an angle of at least about 10 °, for example at least about 20 °, in particular at least about 30 °, and / or at most about 80 °, for example at most about 70 °, in particular at most about 60 °. In particular, it can be provided that at least one vertical ring extends in a vertical plane, which forms an angle of approximately 45 ° with the vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

At least one ring of the passenger compartment is preferably formed curvature continuous and preferably allows the force absorption along preferably isotensoidal lines, so that the deformation is distributed by stress and strain distribution to the largest possible range.

At least one seat device is preferably at least partially integrated in a bottom wall of the passenger compartment. For example, it can be provided that a seat portion of the seat device is integrated in a bottom wall of the passenger compartment. Furthermore, it can be provided that a backrest section of at least one seat device is integrated in a bottom wall of the passenger compartment.

In one embodiment of the invention it is provided that the bottom wall comprises a bottom wall facing the passenger compartment interior, a bottom outer wall facing away from the passenger compartment interior and a bottom core arranged between the bottom inner wall and the bottom outer wall, wherein a sandwich structure is formed by means of the bottom inner wall, by means of the bottom core and by means of the bottom outer wall ,

The bottom inner wall, the bottom core, the bottom outer wall and the bottom wall itself preferably have one or more of the features and / or advantages of the inner wall, the core, the outer wall or the energy absorption element itself.

It may be favorable if at least one seat device is arranged hanging or floating between ring side walls, which are arranged opposite one another with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the passenger compartment. In this way, the at least one seat device, in particular in the event of a side impact in the vehicle transverse direction, can escape in order to protect the passengers from serious injuries.

Furthermore, the energy absorption element according to the invention and the vehicle according to the invention can have one or more of the features and / or advantages described below:

The energy absorbing element according to the invention is preferably designed so that crash energy is absorbable and at the same time chassis loads of the vehicle can be absorbed during operation of the vehicle.

Preferably, the energy absorbing element according to the invention forms at least a portion of an outer shell of the vehicle.

The energy absorption element according to the invention can be formed, for example, from stable, stiff, flexurally rigid and / or torsionally rigid plates. Preferably, more will be added Functions integrated in addition to the energy absorption in the energy absorption element according to the invention.

It may be advantageous if at least one energy absorption element forms a fender or side box of the vehicle. In this way, even in accident scenarios with only low frontal coverage (for example at most about 20%) and / or at an oblique impact (for example, about 30 °) energy can be absorbed by the fenders or side boxes. In particular, this can be prevented that the fenders or side boxes are easily sheared off.

An impact surface is preferably increased by means of the energy absorption element according to the invention, so that a higher force introduction and preferably also a better pedestrian protection are possible.

Preferably, substantially identical energy absorbing elements can be used to form the supporting structure of the vehicle's front end and the supporting structure of the rear of the vehicle.

It can be provided that an energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, is arranged on an end wall of a passenger compartment of the vehicle.

Furthermore, it can be provided that an energy absorption element, which forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, is arranged on a rear wall of the passenger compartment opposite the end wall.

In particular, when the passenger compartment comprises a ring having a sandwich structure or a support structure, a collapse of the passenger compartment in a side impact can be prevented.

A ring for reinforcing a support structure of a vehicle is, for example, from DE 10 2009 046 233 A1 known. On the DE 10 2009 046 233 A1 is hereby expressly referred to and its contents are incorporated herein by reference.

By using a ring as part of the passenger compartment, energy introduced into the passenger compartment can be selectively absorbed. In particular, a force can be distributed along the ring through the curved structure of the ring, so that distributed over the ring a deformation takes place and not only locally a failure of the ring occurs.

In the support structure of the DE 10 2009 046 233 A1 the ring is integrated into the soil structure.

In the present invention, however, it is preferably provided that the vehicle comprises a passenger compartment which comprises a self-contained ring and a bottom wall arranged below the ring. By means of the bottom wall arranged below the bottom, a three-dimensional structure of the passenger compartment can be created by means of which energy introduced into the passenger compartment can be absorbed even better.

In particular, it may be provided here that the bottom wall is formed by a shell-shaped structure and / or by carriers, in particular U-shaped and / or annular carriers. In this way, a particularly stable passenger compartment can be provided by means of which passengers located therein can be protected against injury in the event of collisions.

A front of the vehicle formed from at least one energy absorption element according to the invention is preferably connected flat to the passenger compartment, so that forces introduced in a large connection area can be transmitted and a uniform deformation can be induced.

The energy absorption element can be, for example, a sandwich box in sandwich construction.

According to the invention, an extremely lightweight construction can be realized by a high degree of functional integration.

The invention offers the advantage of structural adaptability by Sandwichaufbauvariation, with a uniform folding behavior in the event of a crash and a high energy absorption capacity can be realized. In particular, this can be done by varying wall thicknesses, materials and / or geometries.

Foam and aluminum are preferably used as sandwich materials.

Triggering devices may be provided to allow for targeted wrinkling. The wrinkling can also be achieved by a suitable choice of material, for example by the choice of a core material with compressive properties and / or by the vote of the core material and wall material, to be optimized.

It can be advantageous if in the circumferential direction and / or longitudinal direction, fillings are provided in the energy absorption element.

It can be provided that in the energy absorption element, passages are provided in a spiral arrangement, which run from a region facing the crash to a region facing away from the crash. The inner wall of the base body and / or the outer wall and / or an intermediate wall of the main body can have rectified or counter-rotating spirals.

It can be provided that a percolation and / or a bulge is carried out towards the core and / or away from the core.

It can be advantageous if the core materials vary in the longitudinal direction, that is to say in a direction running parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main body. Furthermore, it can be provided that the core materials vary in the circumferential direction. For example, it can be provided that the core materials vary in the circumferential direction such that when a force is applied, the cross-section can be converted from round to angular and / or the cross-section is tilted to another plane, for example another force application plane.

It may be favorable if the energy absorption element in the region which faces the colliding object is closed.

The invention offers the advantage of adaptability to a specific vehicle weight via the adaptability of the stiffness behavior and / or the strength behavior of the energy absorption element.

An energy absorption element according to the invention can be used, for example, as a front end or rear end of a vehicle, wherein in particular a sandwich front end structure or sandwich rear end structure can be provided.

The invention preferably offers the advantage of high integration of components, drive components, chassis, etc.

Preferably, functions such as the supporting structure, the crash absorption and the subframe functions are integrated.

The crash behavior of the energy absorption element is preferably adjustable.

The energy absorption element according to the invention preferably offers a high energy absorption capacity by folding and Faltengebulen.

In particular, when the energy absorbing element forms part of the supporting structure of the vehicle, a vehicle with high torsional rigidity and / or bending stiffness can be provided.

The geometry of the energy absorption element and / or the vehicle is preferably adaptable to aggregates of the vehicle and offers a high number of variants.

In particular, it can be provided that the vehicle is designed as an electric vehicle which has an electric drive.

It can be provided that aggregate connections and / or in general the inserts and / or their arrangement contribute to defined wrinkling and a defined failure behavior.

Furthermore, a multi-part construction can be provided with a plurality of conically or partially conically extending, closed or partially closed energy absorption elements.

The present invention can offer the advantage that crash energy can be better absorbed in terms of energy and / or weight-specific considerations, and thus a higher lightweight potential can be realized.

The energy absorbing element according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in a side area of a vehicle to protect the vehicle occupants (passengers) in a side impact. Furthermore, the energy absorbing element according to the invention is preferably suitable for use in a rear area of a vehicle.

The energy absorbing element according to the invention may have circumferential or longitudinal directional fills, whereby a more rigid formation of the energy absorbing element is possible.

The energy absorption elements according to the invention can be used, for example, in road-bound or rail-bound vehicles. In particular, when the energy absorption element forms a portion of a vehicle, for example a front end and / or a rear end of the vehicle, it can be provided that one or more of the following functions in the Energy absorption element are integrated: recording of chassis loads, cooling air flow, aerodynamics (if the energy absorbing element forms a portion of an outer shell of the vehicle), energy absorption elements in the event of a crash, forwarding and distribution of forces in the event of a crash, contributing to the torsional and bending stiffness of the vehicle, natural vibration damping and absorption of aggregates , Furthermore, preferably static torsion and / or bending loads as well as dynamic suspension or crash loads can be accommodated.

Preferably, the functional integration allows the elimination of connecting elements, flanges, etc. The vehicle according to the invention can be designed for example as a kart or Cart. Further, the vehicle may be a non-street legal, non-motorized hobby vehicle or children's vehicle.

Further preferred features and / or advantages of the invention are the subject of the following description and the drawings of exemplary embodiments.

In the drawings show:

1 a schematic perspective view of an energy absorbing element, facing a front of the energy absorbing element;

2 a schematic perspective view of the energy absorbing element 1 facing a rear side of the energy absorbing element;

3 to 15 schematic longitudinal sections through various embodiments of energy absorbing elements;

16 a schematic cross section through an energy absorbing element, in which four mutually different core materials are arranged distributed in the circumferential direction;

17 one of the 16 corresponding schematic representation of an energy absorption element, in which two cores are provided;

18 a the 3 to 15 corresponding schematic sectional view of an energy absorbing element whose inner wall and outer wall are provided with Versickungen;

19 a the 16 and 17 corresponding schematic representation of an energy absorption element, which has passages in the inner wall and the outer wall;

20 a schematic side view of an energy absorbing element, which is substantially conical and comprises an outer wall with a spiral-shaped Aufickung;

21 a schematic longitudinal section through an energy absorbing element, which is conical and has an inner wall with a spiral-shaped Aufickung;

22 a schematic side view of an energy absorbing element, which has an outer wall with a spiral Einfickung and an inner wall with a spiral-shaped Aufickung;

23 to 28 the 3 to 15 corresponding schematic sectional views of further embodiments of energy absorbing elements;

29 a schematic perspective view of a plate-shaped energy absorbing element which is provided with cross-shaped Versickungen;

30 a schematic perspective view of an energy absorbing element, which has a wavy structure;

31 a schematic perspective view of an energy absorbing element, which is formed substantially cuboid and has wavy walls;

32 a schematic perspective view of a vehicle;

33 an enlarged view of a front of the vehicle 32 including the adjacent portion of a passenger compartment of the vehicle 32 ;

34 a schematic perspective view of the front of the car 32 ;

35 one of the 34 corresponding schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a front end vehicle;

36 one of the 34 corresponding schematic representation of another alternative embodiment of a front end vehicle;

37 one of the 36 corresponding schematic representation of the front car, wherein on the front wheels of the vehicle are arranged;

38 a schematic top view of a vehicle, which has a in 37 illustrated front, wherein the vehicle has been deformed due to a frontal impact;

39 a schematic sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a front end vehicle;

40 a schematic representation of a passenger compartment of a vehicle;

41 a vertical longitudinal section through a vehicle;

42 one of the 38 corresponding schematic plan view of a vehicle, wherein the vehicle has been deformed due to a side impact;

43 to 46 schematic representations of various embodiments of passenger compartments of the vehicle;

47 a schematic vertical cross section through a vehicle;

48 and 49 schematic sectional views of passenger compartments, which have energy absorption areas;

50 to 56 vertical sections through different embodiments of passenger compartments of a vehicle.

Identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

One in the 1 and 2 shown, as a whole with 100 designated energy absorbing element comprises a main body 102 , which consists of plate-shaped elements 104 is formed and at least approximately has the shape of a hollow truncated pyramid.

The main body 102 includes one with respect to a direction of gravity 106 upper ceiling wall 108 , one with respect to the direction of gravity 106 lower ground 110 and two side walls 112 , which each have the ceiling wall 108 and the floor 110 connect with each other.

The ceiling wall 108 , the floor 110 and the side walls 112 form a self-contained structure, by means of which an interior 114 of the basic body 102 is surrounded annular or jacket-shaped.

The main body 102 thus has a respect to a longitudinal axis 116 of the basic body 102 taken, closed cross section.

By means of a cover 118 is the one through the ceiling wall 108 and the floor 110 as well as the side walls 112 formed annular structure with respect to the longitudinal axis 116 formed closed on one side.

One parallel to the longitudinal axis 116 extending direction is a longitudinal direction 120 of the basic body 102 ,

The side walls 112 are at the in the 1 and 2 illustrated embodiment of the energy absorption element 100 not cuboid, but have one in the longitudinal direction 120 decreasing height, leaving the ceiling wall 108 and the ground 110 , which by means of the side walls 112 are connected to each other, not parallel to each other, but enclose an angle of, for example, approximately 30 ° with each other.

The energy absorption element 100 thus tapers along the longitudinal direction 120 ,

A circumferential direction 122 of the basic body 102 (please refer 2 ) is one along the body in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 120 arranged level extending direction.

The plate-shaped elements 104 are designed as sandwich elements, so that the main body 102 a sandwich structure 124 having.

The main body 102 thus includes a the interior 114 facing inner wall 126 , one to the interior 114 opposite outer wall 128 and one between the inner wall 126 and the outer wall 128 arranged core 130 ,

By means of such an energy absorption element 100 can energy, for example, crash energy, which counter to the longitudinal direction 120 in the energy absorption element 100 is initiated by deformation of the energy absorbing element 100 be recorded specifically. In particular, the energy in this case by folding and Faltenbelulen the plate-shaped elements 104 be recorded.

In alternative embodiments of energy absorbing elements 100 may instead of the angular embodiment according to the 1 and 2 also be provided a substantially rotationally symmetrical design.

It can be provided that the shape of the cross section of the inner wall 126 essentially the shape of the cross section of the outer wall 128 equivalent. For example, it can be provided that both the cross section of the inner wall 126 as well as the cross section of the outer wall 128 essentially round, oval or rectangular, for example square. It can be provided that the cross section of the inner wall 126 and the cross section of the outer wall 128 are essentially rectangular, with rounded corners.

Alternatively, it may be provided that the shape of the cross section of the inner wall 126 of the shape of the cross section of the outer wall 128 different. In particular, various of the above-mentioned forms can be combined with each other in any desired manner.

For example, it can be provided that the cross section of the inner wall 126 round or rectangular, for example, square, while the cross section of the outer wall 128 rectangular, in particular square, or round.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the basic body 102 two interiors 114 includes. It can be provided that each interior 114 from a separate inner wall 126 is surrounded. These inner walls 126 are spaced apart from each other or directly in contact with each other and preferably completely from a core 130 surround. The core 130 is preferably of a single outer wall 128 surround.

It can be provided that the cross sections of the inner walls 126 from each other or from the cross section of the outer wall 128 have different shapes. Alternatively, it may be provided that the shapes of the cross sections of the inner walls 126 and the outer wall 128 are essentially identical.

The 3 to 28 serve to illustrate rotationally symmetrical embodiments of energy absorption elements 100 , In principle, all of the described embodiments of energy absorption elements 100 Instead of substantially rotationally symmetrical embodiments, a square configuration according to the 1 and 2 or an embodiment with a different basic form may be provided.

As 3 can be seen in an energy absorption element 100 , which one around the longitudinal axis 116 rotationally symmetrical basic body 102 includes, be provided that a thickness D _{I of} the inner wall 126 , a thickness D _{A of} the outer wall 128 and a thickness D _{K of} the core 130 along the longitudinal direction 120 of the basic body 102 are essentially constant.

In addition, since the distance of the inner wall 126 , the core 130 and the outer wall 128 from the longitudinal axis 116 along the longitudinal direction 120 is constant, is the energy absorption element 100 at the in 3 illustrated embodiment, a hollow cylinder.

In the 4 illustrated embodiment of the energy absorption element 100 is different from the one in 3 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the thickness D _{A of} the outer wall 128 along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases. In this way, a frusto-conical energy absorbing element 100 to be provided. The interior 114 of the basic body 102 is still cylindrical.

An in 5 illustrated alternative embodiment of the energy absorption element 100 is different from the one in 4 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that the thickness D _{I of} the inner wall 126 along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases. However, since the thickness D _{K of} the core 130 along the longitudinal direction 120 is constant and also the distance of the core 130 from the longitudinal axis 116 along the longitudinal direction 120 is constant, results in the in 5 illustrated embodiment of the energy absorption element 100 a cone-shaped body 102 , where the main body 102 along the longitudinal direction 120 rejuvenated. The interior 114 of the basic body 102 is also cone-shaped, with the interior 114 against the longitudinal direction 120 rejuvenated.

An in 6 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 3 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the distance of the inner wall 126 , the core 130 and the outer wall 128 from the longitudinal axis 116 along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases, leaving a cone-shaped energy absorption element 100 is formed, which has a cone-shaped interior 114 surrounds. Both the main body 102 of the energy absorbing element 100 as well as that of the main body 102 surrounded interior 114 thereby tapering along the longitudinal direction 120 ,

An in 7 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 6 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the thickness D _{A of} the outer wall 128 along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases.

An in 8th illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 7 illustrated embodiment of an energy absorption element 100 essentially only in that the thickness D _{I of} the inner wall 126 along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases.

An in 9 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element is different from that in 3 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that the thickness D _{K of} the core 130 along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases and at the same time the distance of the core 130 and the inner wall 126 from the longitudinal axis 116 along the longitudinal direction 120 increases. In this way, a substantially cone-shaped energy absorbing element 100 educated. One of the main body 102 of the energy absorbing element 100 surrounded interior 114 is also cone-shaped. The cone-shaped basic body 102 tapers along the longitudinal direction 120 , The interior 114 on the other hand, it tapers counter to the longitudinal direction 120 ,

An in 10 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 9 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that the thickness D _{I of} the inner wall 126 and the thickness D _{A of} the outer wall 128 along the longitudinal direction 120 lose weight.

An in 11 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 10 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that the thickness D _{I of} the inner wall 126 along the longitudinal direction 120 is essentially constant.

The in the 12 to 14 illustrated embodiments of energy absorbing elements 100 differ from those in the 6 to 8th illustrated embodiments substantially only in that the thickness D _{K of} the core 130 is not constant, but along the longitudinal direction 120 decreases. Incidentally, the votes in the 12 to 14 Embodiments shown in terms of their structure and their function with in the 6 to 8th illustrated embodiments, so that reference is made to the foregoing description in this respect.

An in 15 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 3 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the core 130 in three with respect to the longitudinal direction 120 successively arranged sections 132 is divided, each of the sections 132 of the core 130 from another nuclear material 134 consists. As a result, a targeted deformation behavior of the energy absorption element 100 obtained at the initiation of crash energy.

An in 16 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 15 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the sections 132 of the core 130 not with regard to the longitudinal direction 120 one behind the other but with respect to the circumferential direction 122 are arranged adjacent to each other.

An in 17 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 16 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the in 16 the outer wall 128 forming wall an intermediate wall 136 of the basic body 102 forms, which of another core 130 is surrounded. The further core 130 Finally, there is an outer wall 128 of the basic body 102 surround.

At the in 17 illustrated embodiment of an energy absorption element 100 is thus provided that an inner wall 126 from one of four different core materials 134 existing first core 130 are surrounded. The first core 130 is from the partition 136 surround. The intermediate wall 136 is from a second core 130 surrounded, which in turn from the outer wall 128 is surrounded.

An in 18 illustrated embodiment of an energy absorption element 100 is different from the one in 3 illustrated first embodiment substantially in that the outer wall 128 and the inner wall 126 with trigger devices 138 are provided. The trigger devices 138 are doing as beads 140 (Fillings) in the outer wall 128 and the inner wall 126 educated. The beads 140 extend in the direction of the interior 114 of the energy absorbing element 100 , The space between the outer wall 128 and the inner wall 126 is complete with the core 130 filled.

The number of beads 140 in the outer wall 128 differs from the number of beads 140 in the inner wall 126 , As a result, a targeted deformation behavior of the energy absorption element 100 be set.

An in 19 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 18 illustrated embodiment essentially in that the beads 140 not in the circumferential direction 122 but in longitudinal direction 120 are arranged and that the beads 140 in the inner wall 126 from the interior 114 protrude.

An in 20 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 18 illustrated embodiment essentially in that the distance of the inner wall 126 , the core 130 and the outer wall 128 against the longitudinal direction 120 decreases, so that a substantially conically shaped energy absorbing element 100 is formed. In this energy absorption element 100 is just a bead 140 as a trigger device 138 intended. This bead 140 is in the outer wall 128 of the energy absorbing element 100 arranged and runs substantially helically.

An in 21 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 20 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that the spiral bead 140 not in the outer wall 128 but in the inner wall 126 is arranged.

An in 22 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 20 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that both the inner wall 126 as well as the outer wall 128 with essentially spiral-shaped beads 140 are provided.

An in 23 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 18 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the triggering devices 138 not as beads 140 but as bulges 142 in the outer wall 128 are formed so that portions of increased thickness D _{A of} the outer wall 128 are formed. This also makes it possible to obtain a targeted failure behavior of the energy absorption element in the event of the initiation of crash energy.

An in 24 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 23 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that in addition to the bulges 142 on the outer wall 128 Versickungen 140 in the inner wall 126 are provided.

An in 25 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 includes an inner wall 126 , a first core 130 , an intermediate wall 136 , a second core 130 and an outer wall 128 , Here are the inner wall 126 and the outer wall 128 with spills 140 provided, each of the intermediate wall 136 protrude.

An in 26 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 25 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that no intermediate wall 136 is provided, but between the outer wall 128 and the inner wall 126 a unified core 130 is provided.

An in 27 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 23 illustrated embodiment substantially only in that in addition to that of the interior 114 of the energy absorbing element 100 protruding bulges 142 in the outer wall 128 additional bulges 142 in the outer wall 128 are arranged, which are in the direction of the interior 114 of the energy absorbing element 100 protrude.

An in 28 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is different from the one in 23 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that the triggering devices 138 not as bulges 142 but as beading 140 in the outer wall 128 are formed.

An in 29 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 comprises a plate-shaped element 104 , which is arranged with substantially cross-shaped beads 140 in the outer wall 128 is provided. In this way, a set of beads can be formed.

An in 30 illustrated alternative embodiment of an energy absorbing element 100 is substantially plate-shaped, wherein the plate-shaped elements 104 have a wavy or wavy structure.

By means of the plate-shaped elements 104 , which partially in 30 can be shown, for example, in 31 illustrated, substantially cuboid energy absorption element 100 be formed.

An in 32 shown, as a whole with 150 designated vehicle is designed for example as a passenger car and as such comprises a passenger compartment 152 for accommodating passengers (vehicle occupants), in particular persons, a front end 154 and a rear car 156 ,

The front end 154 is doing with respect to a direction of travel 162 of the vehicle 150 before the cabin 152 arranged. The rear car 156 is regarding the direction of travel 162 behind the passenger compartment 152 arranged.

By means of the front car 154 , the passenger cell 152 and the back car 156 is a supporting structure 158 of the vehicle 150 formed, which in normal operation of the vehicle 150 occurring dynamic loads, especially chassis loads, absorbs. In a crash case of the vehicle 150 takes the supporting structure 158 of the vehicle 150 Crash energy due to deformation on to the passengers of the vehicle 150 to protect against injury.

The passenger compartment 152 of the vehicle 150 includes a ring 160 , which runs in a substantially horizontal plane, one with respect to the direction of travel 162 of the vehicle 150 front end wall 164 at which the front end 154 of the vehicle 150 is arranged, and one of the front wall 164 opposite back wall 166 at which the rear car 156 is arranged.

The ring 160 includes two each the end wall 164 with the back wall 166 connecting, at least in sections along the direction of travel 162 running ring side walls 167 ,

Further, the passenger compartment includes 152 of the vehicle 150 an example cup-shaped bottom wall 168 which have a center tunnel 170 and a crossbeam 172 of the vehicle 150 includes. One as a vertical ring 174 trained roll bar 176 of the vehicle 150 is also part of the passenger compartment 152 and serves to absorb torsional forces during normal operation of the vehicle 150 as well as the stiffening of the passenger compartment 152 in case of a rollover of the vehicle 150 ,

In the passenger compartment 152 are seating devices 178 provided on which the passengers of the vehicle 150 can settle.

At the in 32 illustrated embodiment of the vehicle 150 are two seating devices 178 provided, which with respect to a vehicle transverse direction 180 that are horizontal and perpendicular to the direction of travel 162 of the vehicle 150 runs, are arranged adjacent to each other.

The seating devices 178 include one example, in the cross member 172 the bottom wall 168 integrated seat section 182 and a backrest section 184 ,

Both the front end 154 as well as the rear car 156 of the vehicle 150 are preferably made of energy absorbing elements 100 educated. In particular 33 can be seen, this is a plurality of plate-shaped elements 104 provided by means of which a with respect to the vehicle transverse direction 180 centrally located, carrying energy absorbing element 186 as well as other energy absorption elements 100 , which side boxes 188 or fenders 190 of the vehicle 150 form, formed. The ceiling wall 108 the central energy absorption element 186 extends in the horizontal direction over the side walls 112 the central energy absorption element 186 out and forms in the towering sections the floors 110 as side boxes 188 or as a fender 190 serving further energy absorption elements 100 , In this way, a particularly stable and rigid structure of the front end 154 to be obtained.

An additional stiffener is available through the side walls 112 the central energy absorption element 186 at the same time sidewalls 112 the further energy absorption elements 100 make up the side boxes 188 or fenders 190 of the vehicle 150 form.

Both the central energy absorbing element 186 as well as the other energy absorption elements 100 are at the passenger compartment 152 facing end substantially complementary to the shape of the end wall 164 the passenger compartment 152 designed so that one over the entire end wall 164 the passenger compartment 152 distributed, uniform force application or power transmission from the front end 154 on the passenger compartment 152 is possible.

An in 35 illustrated alternative embodiment of a front end 154 is different from the one in the 32 to 34 illustrated embodiment essentially in that the further energy absorption elements 100 , which side boxes 188 or fenders 190 of the vehicle 150 form, as well as the side walls 112 the central energy absorption element 126 have rounded shapes. This serves in particular for optimized aerodynamics of the vehicle 150 ,

An in 36 illustrated embodiment of a front end 154 of the vehicle 150 is different from the one in 35 illustrated embodiment essentially in that the further energy absorption elements 186 , which side boxes 188 or fenders 190 of the vehicle 150 form, with respect to the direction of travel 162 of the vehicle 150 opposite the central energy absorbing element 186 are arranged offset back, as well as in the in the 32 to 34 illustrated embodiment of the front end 154 the case is.

In 37 is the front end 154 out 36 with two wheels 192 of the vehicle 150 shown.

The wheels 192 of the vehicle 150 are here by means of suspension elements 194 , For example, triangular wishbones, with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane 196 of the vehicle 150 opposite side walls 112 the central energy absorption element 186 arranged.

By using the central energy absorbing element 186 as part of the load-bearing structure 158 of the vehicle 150 , in particular the front end 154 of the vehicle 150 , can be used for suspension of the wheels 192 of the vehicle 150 in the area of the front end 154 that is the front wheels of the vehicle 150 , on additional longitudinal or transverse beams of the vehicle 150 be waived. This is a particularly light and stable front end 154 and thus also a particularly light and stable vehicle 150 realizable.

In 38 is one with the front end 154 out 37 provided vehicle 150 shown in a plan view from above, wherein the vehicle 150 due to an impact on an obstacle 198 in the area of the front end 154 was deformed.

As 38 As can be seen, was due to the impact of the central energy absorption element 186 deformed to absorb crash energy. This was the wheels 192 against the driving direction 162 of the vehicle 150 postponed. Furthermore, crash energy was due to the deformation of the other energy absorbing elements 100 , which side boxes 188 or fenders 190 form the vehicle, and by deformation of the front wall 164 , the ring 160 and / or the center tunnel 170 of the vehicle 150 absorbed.

An in 39 illustrated alternative embodiment of a front end 154 is different from the one in 37 illustrated embodiment essentially only in that in the interior 114 the central energy absorption element 186 additional energy absorption elements 100 , For example, cylindrical energy absorption elements 100 , are arranged, by means of which in the front end 154 initiated crash energy is absorbed by deformation of the same.

The additional energy absorption elements 100 are on the front wall 164 the passenger compartment 152 arranged and extend from the end wall 164 parallel to the direction of travel 162 of the vehicle 150 forward, so especially against the direction of travel 162 initiated crash energy can be targeted.

In 40 is a schematic representation of a passenger compartment 152 to see where the ring is 160 the passenger compartment 152 two seating areas 200 and one between the two seating areas 200 arranged energy absorption area 202 surrounds.

The seating areas 200 and the energy absorption area 202 are part of a passenger cell interior 204 the passenger compartment 152 ,

As 40 it can also be seen, the ring has 160 a sandwich structure 124 on.

The ring 160 thus comprises a ring inner wall 206 which the passenger compartment interior 204 is arranged facing, a Ringaußenwandung 208 which the passenger compartment interior 204 is arranged facing away and one between the ring inner wall 206 and the ring outer wall 208 arranged toroidal core 210 ,

The ring 160 is there as a circulating carrier 212 the passenger compartment 152 arranged and thus no plate-shaped element.

Alternatively, however, it can also be provided that the ring 160 from plate-shaped elements 104 is formed.

By doing that, between the seating areas 200 an energy absorption area 202 can be arranged at a deformation of the ring 160 and thus a deformation of the passenger compartment 152 Energy between the seating areas 200 be included in the vehicle 150 passengers are protected from injury.

In 41 is an alternative embodiment of a vehicle 150 shown, in which the bottom wall 168 is substantially cup-shaped and an edge region 214 the bottom wall 168 through the ring 160 is formed.

Also the bottom wall 168 preferably has a sandwich structure 124 on.

The bottom wall 168 thus includes a passenger compartment interior 204 facing Bodeninnenwandung 216 , a passenger compartment interior 204 opposite Bodenaußenwandung 218 and one between the bottom inner wall 216 and the floor exterior wall 218 arranged soil core 220 ,

It can be advantageous if the bottom wall 168 and the ring 160 are integrally formed, so that the Bodenaußenwandung 218 at the edge 214 the bottom wall 168 in the ring outer wall 208 of the ring 160 passes. The Bodeninnenwandung 216 goes in the edge area 214 the bottom wall 168 then preferably in the ring inner wall 206 of the ring 160 above. Furthermore, the soil core goes 220 the bottom wall 168 at the edge 214 the bottom wall 168 in the ring core 210 of the ring 160 above.

In this way, a particularly stable passenger compartment 152 to be provided.

It can be advantageous if in the bottom wall 168 at least one seat device 178 , in particular a seat portion 182 at least one seat device 178 , is integrated. In particular, it may be provided that at least one seat portion 182 in a crossbeam 172 the bottom wall 168 is integrated. As a result, the rigidity of the passenger compartment 152 increase.

In particular 42 it can be seen in a side impact of the vehicle 150 on a colliding object 221 the ring 160 the passenger compartment 152 deformed. Due to the sandwich structure 124 of the ring 160 can be a complete failure of the ring 160 in which it is kinked and can not absorb any more crash energy can be prevented.

The in the vehicle 150 passengers can be better protected from injury.

In 43 is an alternative embodiment of a passenger compartment 152 shown in which a along the vertical longitudinal center plane 196 of the vehicle 150 extending vertical ring 174 , as well as below the ring 160 extending part ring 222 are provided.

A seat device 178 is preferably floating or hanging between the vertical ring 174 and the ring 160 arranged so that the seating device 178 in the event of a side impact of the vehicle 150 on a colliding object 221 not deformed, but merely postponed.

An in 44 illustrated alternative embodiment of a passenger compartment 152 is different from the one in 43 illustrated embodiment essentially in that a plurality of vertical rings 174 are provided, which essentially span a ball scaffold. The vertical rings 174 In this case, they preferably run in vertical planes, which coincide with the longitudinal center plane of the vehicle 150 an angle of, for example, about 30 °.

By means of such vertical rings 174 can in the passenger compartment 152 introduced forces are optimally derived especially along geodetic lines.

An in 45 illustrated alternative embodiment of a passenger compartment 152 is different from the one in 43 illustrated embodiment essentially in that for stiffening the ring 160 a horizontally arranged cross member 172 and one parallel to the direction of travel 162 extending, with respect to the vehicle transverse direction 180 centrally arranged side member 224 are provided. The crossbeam 172 and the side member 224 form a cross-shaped stiffening structure 226 for stiffening the ring 160 ,

An in 46 illustrated alternative embodiment of a passenger compartment 152 is different from the one in 45 illustrated embodiment essentially in that no cross member 172 is provided.

Both at the in 45 illustrated embodiment of a passenger compartment 152 as well as at the 46 illustrated embodiment of a passenger compartment 152 is the at least one seat device 178 hanging or floating between the side member 224 and the ring 160 arranged in case of impact of the vehicle 150 on a colliding object 221 a deformation of the seat device 178 to avoid.

As 47 it can be seen in one embodiment, the passenger compartment 152 two with respect to the vehicle transverse direction 180 Seating devices arranged adjacent to one another 178 intended. Between the seat devices 178 is the energy absorption area 202 intended.

In particular, it is provided that a center tunnel 170 of the vehicle 150 the energy absorption area 202 forms. Thus, the center tunnel 170 at the in 47 illustrated embodiment of the passenger compartment 152 deformed to absorb energy.

In particular 48 can be seen here, it can be provided that the energy absorption area 202 the passenger compartment 152 triggering devices 138 includes a targeted deformation in the energy absorption area 202 to enable.

It can be advantageous if the seat devices 178 through a bench 232 are formed.

The bench 232 extends along the vehicle transverse direction 180 consistently between opposing side walls of the passenger compartment 152 , especially each other opposite Ringseitenwandungen 167 of the ring 160 ,

The bench 232 includes in the field of seating devices 178 stiffening structures 234 which, for example, as at least partially parallel to the vehicle transverse direction 180 extending beads or stiffening ribs are formed and the stiffening of the seat devices 178 in the vehicle transverse direction 180 serve.

The area of the seat 232 between the seating devices 178 is the energy absorption area 202 , which with trigger devices 138 is provided.

Through the trigger devices 138 and the stiffening structures 234 can be a deliberate failure behavior of the seat 232 in the event of a side impact of the vehicle 150 on a colliding object 221 to be obtained. In particular, this can be ensured that the seat 232 not in the field of seating devices 178 but only between the seating devices 178 that is in the energy absorption area 202 , deformed. The vehicle occupants can be protected from injury.

The bench 232 can in particular in the bottom wall 186 be integrated.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the seat 232 a supporting function of the passenger compartment 152 takes over.

By means of the seat 232 in particular, the torsional stiffness of the passenger compartment 152 increase.

Alternatively, it may be provided that between the seating areas 200 at least one predetermined breaking point 228 is provided to move the seating areas 200 relative to each other (see 49 ).

In addition, it can also be provided for this purpose that in an area between the ring 160 the passenger compartment 152 and the seating area 200 an additional energy absorption area 202 is provided (see 48 ).

The functioning of the energy absorption area 202 between the seating areas 200 is in particular the 50 to 52 refer to.

50 shows the passenger compartment 152 in an undeformed state.

By force in the vehicle transverse direction 180 can by means of the passenger compartment 152 in the energy absorption area 202 Energy is absorbed by the passenger compartment 152 in the energy absorption area 202 is deformed (see 51 ).

Only with excessive force and complete deformation of the energy absorption area 202 Finally, an undesirable deformation of the bottom wall takes place 168 and the ring 160 in the seating areas 200 (please refer 52 ).

In 53 is an embodiment of a bottom wall 168 represented by means of which energy targeted in the energy absorption area 202 the passenger compartment 152 is absorbable.

In the bottom wall 168 is the center tunnel 170 integrated by the bottom inner wall 216 the bottom wall 168 into the passenger compartment 204 extends and thus in a predetermined range an increased distance to the in this area substantially flat bottom outer wall 218 the bottom wall 168 having. As well as this enlarged space with nuclear material 134 is filled, the passenger compartment 152 reinforced by this, but allows a suitable design and a targeted deformation.

In particular, it can be provided that the bottom core 220 sections 132 with different core materials 134 includes. For example, it may be provided that substantially vertically extending sections 132 of the soil core 220 with a first, for example formed from a foam, core material 134 are provided. Essentially horizontal sections 132 of the soil core 220 are preferably with a different core material 134 , for example with a core material 134 honeycomb structure. In a section 132 of the soil core 220 which the center tunnel 170 of the vehicle 150 finally, another, different core material can form 134 be provided. In particular, in this case, a core material 134 be provided, which a targeted deformation in the area of the center tunnel 170 facilitated.

By using different core materials 134 for the soil core 220 can be a behavior of the bottom wall 168 be specifically set in the event of a crash and also optimized weight-specific.

The area of the center tunnel can be optimized 170 In addition, the fact that the bottom inner wall 216 and / or the Bodenaußenwandung 218 compared to the other areas of the bottom wall 168 have lower material thicknesses (wall thicknesses).

54 shows an alternative embodiment of a bottom wall 168 in which the bottom wall 168 has a substantially continuous thickness, but due to the shape, for example, a seat portion 182 a seat device 178 is formed.

An in 55 illustrated alternative embodiment of a bottom wall 168 the passenger compartment 152 is different from the one in 53 illustrated embodiment essentially in that the center tunnel 170 through an additional hollow structure 230 is formed, which are along the direction of travel 162 and with respect to the vehicle transverse direction 180 centrally in the passenger compartment 152 extends and between the Bodenaußenwandung 218 and the bottom inner wall 216 the bottom wall 168 is arranged. At the in 55 illustrated embodiment of the passenger compartment 152 has the hollow structure 230 one perpendicular to the direction of travel 162 taken, essentially trapezoidal cross section.

An in 56 illustrated alternative embodiment of the passenger compartment 152 is different from the one in 55 illustrated embodiment substantially only by the hollow structure 230 one perpendicular to the direction of travel 162 taken, has substantially M-shaped cross-section.

In other (not shown) alternative embodiments of the passenger compartment 152 can several, with respect to the vehicle transverse direction 180 adjacent to each other and arranged parallel to the direction of travel 162 aligned hollow structures 230 be provided. In this case, the hollow structures may, for example, have a substantially triangular cross-section.

In further alternative embodiments, it may be provided that the center tunnel 170 of the vehicle 150 forming carrier, in particular longitudinal beams 224 , on a bottom wall 168 , in particular on a bottom wall 216 is applied. This can be done in particular by welding, gluing, riveting and other non-positive and / or positive connection options.

Such an additional carrier can have any desired shapes, for example a substantially U-shaped profile or a rectangular hollow profile.

In further (not shown) alternative embodiments of the passenger compartment 152 can also be provided that the cross member 172 in which, for example, at least one seat device 178 is integrated or which, for example, a part of a seat 232 forms, in the bottom wall 168 is integrated or on the bottom inner wall 216 applied and fixed to the same.

In principle, one or more features of different embodiments of energy absorption elements 100 , Front end 154 , Passenger compartments 152 or vehicles 150 to form further, not shown, advantageous embodiments are combined.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

 Energy absorbing element

102

 body

104

 plate-shaped elements

106

 The direction of gravity

108

 top wall

110

 ground

112

 sidewall

114

 inner space

116

 longitudinal axis

118

 cover

120

 longitudinal direction

122

 circumferentially

124

 sandwich structure

126

 inner wall

128

 outer wall

130

 core

132

 Section of the core

134

 nuclear material

136

 intermediate wall

138

 triggering device

140

 Beading

142

 bulge

150

 vehicle

152

 cabin

154

 front end

156

 rear car

158

 carrying structure

160

 ring

162

 direction of travel

164

 bulkhead

166

 rear wall

167

 Ringseitenwandung

168

 bottom wall

170

 center tunnel

172

 crossbeam

174

 vertical ring

176

 Roll bar

178

 seat device

180

 Vehicle transverse direction

182

 seat section

184

 back portion

186

 carrying energy absorption element

188

 page box

190

 fender

192

 wheel

194

 suspension element

196

 vertical longitudinal center plane

198

 obstacle

200

 sitting area

202

 Energy absorption area

204

 Cabin interior

206

 Ringinnenwandung

208

 Ringaußenwandung

210

 toroidal

212

 circulating carrier

214

 border area

216

 Bodeninnenwandung

218

 Bodenaußenwandung

220

 soil core

221

 colliding object

222

 partial ring

224

 longitudinal beams

226

 stiffening structure

228

 Breaking point

230

 hollow structure

232

 seat

234

 stiffening structure

D _I

 Thickness of the inner wall

D _K

 Thickness of the core

D _A

 Thickness of the outer wall

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102009046233 A1 [0111, 0111, 0113]

Claims (41)

Energy absorption element ( 100 ) comprising a main body ( 102 ) which is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) has taken closed closed cross-section and an interior ( 114 ) surrounds annular or jacket-shaped, wherein the main body ( 102 ) one the interior ( 114 ) facing inner wall ( 126 ), an interior ( 114 ) facing away from the outer wall ( 128 ) and one between the inner wall ( 126 ) and the outer wall ( 128 ) arranged core ( 130 ), wherein by means of the inner wall ( 126 ), by means of the core ( 130 ) and by means of the outer wall ( 128 ) a sandwich structure ( 124 ) and wherein the thickness (D _I ) of the inner wall ( 126 ), the thickness (D _K ) of the core ( 130 ) and / or the thickness (D _A ) of the outer wall ( 128 ) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) running direction ( 120 ) and / or in a circumferential direction ( 122 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) at least partially increases or decreases. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the thickness (D _I ) of the inner wall ( 126 ), the thickness (D _K ) of the core ( 130 ) and / or the thickness (D _A ) of the outer wall ( 128 ) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) running direction ( 120 ) and / or in a circumferential direction ( 122 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) increases at least in sections substantially continuously and / or at least partially decreases substantially continuously. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the thickness (D _I ) of the inner wall ( 126 ), the thickness (D _K ) of the core ( 130 ) and / or the thickness (D _A ) of the outer wall ( 128 ) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) running direction ( 120 ) and / or in a circumferential direction ( 122 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) is at least partially substantially constant. Energy absorption element ( 100 ), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a main body ( 102 ) which is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) has taken closed closed cross-section and an interior ( 114 ) surrounds annular or jacket-shaped, wherein the main body ( 102 ) one the interior ( 114 ) facing inner wall ( 126 ), an interior ( 114 ) facing away from the outer wall ( 128 ) and one between the inner wall ( 126 ) and the outer wall ( 128 ) arranged core ( 130 ), wherein by means of the inner wall ( 126 ), by means of the core ( 130 ) and by means of the outer wall ( 128 ) a sandwich structure ( 124 ) and wherein the core ( 130 ) is isotropic or quasi-isotropic. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the basic body ( 102 ) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) running direction ( 120 ) and / or in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) running direction tapers or widened. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the core ( 130 ) at least two mutually different core materials ( 134 ), by means of which different sections ( 132 ) of the core ( 130 ) are formed. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least two mutually different sections ( 132 ) of the core ( 130 ) with respect to a parallel to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) running direction ( 120 ) and / or with respect to a circumferential direction ( 122 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) are arranged adjacent to each other. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the basic body ( 102 ) at least one intermediate wall ( 136 ), which between the inner wall ( 126 ) and the outer wall ( 128 ) and at least two cores ( 130 ), wherein at least one core ( 130 ) between the inner wall ( 126 ) and the at least one intermediate wall ( 136 ) and wherein at least one further core ( 130 ) between the at least one intermediate wall ( 136 ) and the outer wall ( 128 ) is arranged. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to claim 8, characterized in that at least two cores ( 130 ) different core materials ( 134 ). Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the inner wall ( 126 ), the outer wall ( 128 ) and / or at least one intermediate wall ( 136 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) at least one triggering device ( 138 ). Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to claim 10, characterized in that at least one triggering device ( 138 ) as a bead ( 140 ), a recess, a bore, a recess, a notch and / or a bulge ( 142 ) is trained. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that at least one triggering device ( 138 ) in a circumferential direction ( 122 ) of the basic body ( 102 ), in a direction substantially perpendicular to the circumferential direction ( 122 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) extending plane along the body ( 102 ) and / or substantially helically about the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ). Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the inner wall ( 126 ), the core ( 130 ) and / or the outer wall ( 128 ) are at least partially plate-shaped, at least partially curved and / or formed at least partially wavy or wavy. Energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the basic body ( 102 ) with respect to the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) is formed at most open on one side. Vehicle ( 150 ), comprising a passenger compartment ( 152 ) for receiving at least one passenger and at least one with respect to a direction of travel ( 162 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) in front of or behind the passenger compartment ( 152 ) arranged energy absorbing element 100 that has a basic body ( 102 ) which is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) has taken closed closed cross-section and an interior ( 114 ) surrounds annular or jacket-shaped, wherein the main body ( 102 ) one the interior ( 114 ) facing inner wall ( 126 ), an interior ( 114 ) facing away from the outer wall ( 128 ) and one between the inner wall ( 126 ) and the outer wall ( 128 ) arranged core ( 130 ), wherein by means of the inner wall ( 126 ), by means of the core ( 130 ) and by means of the outer wall ( 128 ) a sandwich structure ( 124 ) and wherein the energy absorbing element 100 a part of a supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ). Vehicle ( 150 ), comprising a passenger compartment ( 152 ) for receiving at least one passenger and at least one energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 14. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 or 16, characterized in that at least two wheels ( 192 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) by means of suspension elements ( 194 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) directly to side walls ( 112 ) of an energy absorption element ( 100 ), the side walls ( 112 ) with respect to a vertical longitudinal median plane ( 196 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) are arranged opposite one another. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the energy absorption element ( 100 ) one with respect to the direction of gravity ( 106 ) upper ceiling wall ( 108 ), which extend in a vehicle transverse direction ( 180 ) over the side walls ( 112 ) of the energy absorption element ( 100 ) extends. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 18, characterized in that the top wall ( 108 ) of the energy absorption element ( 100 ) a wall ( 110 ) of basic bodies ( 102 ) of further energy absorption elements ( 100 ), which is also perpendicular to a longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the respective basic body ( 102 ) have closed cross-section taken and further interior spaces ( 114 ) surrounded ring-shaped or shell-shaped. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 19, characterized in that the basic body ( 102 ) of the further energy absorption elements ( 100 ) one each the interior ( 114 ) facing inner wall ( 126 ), an interior ( 114 ) facing away from the outer wall ( 128 ) and one between the inner wall ( 126 ) and the outer wall ( 128 ) arranged core ( 130 ), wherein by means of the inner wall ( 126 ), by means of the core ( 130 ) and by means of the outer wall ( 128 ) a sandwich structure ( 124 ) is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 19 or 20, characterized in that the further energy absorption elements ( 100 ) a part of a supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) form. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 to 21, characterized in that at least one energy absorption element ( 100 ) on a wall ( 164 ) of the passenger compartment ( 152 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) is arranged, that the longitudinal axis ( 116 ) of the basic body ( 102 ) of the at least one energy absorption element ( 100 ) substantially perpendicular to the wall ( 164 ) of the passenger compartment ( 152 ) is aligned. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 to 22, characterized in that the energy absorption element ( 100 ), which forms part of the supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ), with at least one installation element for arranging at least one suspension element ( 194 ) is provided. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 to 23, characterized in that the energy absorption element ( 100 ), which forms part of the supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ), at least in sections is plate-shaped and / or at least partially has a curved, wavy or wavy structure. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 to 24, characterized in that the vehicle ( 150 ) in addition to the energy absorption element ( 100 ), which forms part of the supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ), at least one energy absorption element ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 14. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 25, characterized in that the at least one additional energy absorption element ( 100 ) in the interior ( 114 ) of the energy absorption element ( 100 ), which forms part of the supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ). Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 25 or 26, characterized in that the energy absorption element ( 100 ), which forms part of the supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ), and the at least one additional energy absorption element ( 100 ) substantially parallel longitudinal axes ( 116 ) exhibit. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 15 to 27, characterized in that by means of the energy absorption element ( 100 ), which forms part of the supporting structure ( 158 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ), a substantially closed front end ( 154 ) and / or a substantially closed rear carriage ( 156 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ), in particular according to one of claims 15 to 28, characterized in that the vehicle ( 150 ) a passenger compartment ( 152 ) comprising a self-contained ring ( 160 ) and one below the ring ( 160 ) arranged bottom wall ( 168 ), wherein the ring ( 160 ) a passenger compartment interior ( 204 ) facing Ringinnenwandung ( 206 ), a passenger compartment interior ( 204 ) facing away from the outer ring wall ( 208 ) and one between the Ringinnenwandung ( 206 ) and the ring outer wall ( 208 ) arranged ring core ( 210 ), wherein by means of the ring inner wall ( 206 ), by means of the toroidal core ( 210 ) and by means of the ring outer wall ( 208 ) a sandwich structure ( 124 ) and / or support structure is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 29, characterized in that the ring ( 160 ) as a circulating, preferably filled carrier ( 212 ) is trained. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 or 30, characterized in that the vehicle ( 150 ) at least two seating devices ( 178 ) for at least two passengers traveling in a vehicle transverse direction ( 180 ) are arranged adjacent to each other. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 31, characterized in that between the at least two seating devices ( 178 ) and / or between at least one of the at least two seating devices ( 178 ) and the ring ( 160 ) at least one energy absorption area ( 202 ) is arranged. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 32, characterized in that the at least two seating devices ( 178 ) by a bench ( 232 ), wherein the at least two seating devices ( 178 ) Stiffening structures ( 234 ) for stiffening the at least two seating devices ( 178 ) in the vehicle transverse direction ( 180 ) and between the at least two seating devices ( 178 ) an energy absorption area ( 202 ) in the seat ( 232 ) is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 32 or 33, characterized in that the energy absorption region ( 202 ) by a bottom wall ( 168 ) of the passenger compartment ( 152 ), through a center tunnel ( 170 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) and / or by a cross member ( 172 ) of the vehicle ( 150 ) is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 to 34, characterized in that the bottom wall ( 168 ) is substantially cup-shaped and / or a curved support structure ( 222 ) having. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to claim 35, characterized in that the bottom wall ( 168 ) a border area ( 214 ) which passes through the ring ( 160 ) is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 to 36, characterized in that the ring ( 160 ) extends at least approximately in a substantially horizontal plane. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 to 37, characterized in that the passenger compartment ( 152 ) at least one vertical ring ( 174 ) which extends at least approximately in a substantially vertical plane. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 to 38, characterized in that at least one seat device ( 178 ) at least in sections in a bottom wall ( 168 ) of the passenger compartment ( 152 ) is integrated. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 to 39, characterized in that the Bottom wall ( 168 ) a the passenger compartment interior ( 204 ) facing Bodeninnenwandung ( 216 ), a passenger compartment interior ( 204 ) facing away from the bottom wall ( 218 ) and one between the Bodeninnenwandung ( 216 ) and the Bodenaußenwandung ( 218 ) arranged soil core ( 220 ), wherein by means of the bottom inner wall ( 216 ), by means of the soil core ( 220 ) and by means of the bottom outer wall ( 218 ) a sandwich structure ( 124 ) is formed. Vehicle ( 150 ) according to one of claims 29 to 40, characterized in that at least one seat device ( 178 ) hanging or floating between ring sidewalls ( 167 ) is arranged, which with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane ( 196 ) of the passenger compartment ( 152 ) are arranged opposite one another.

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