US20020050723A1 - Self-locking telescoping device - Google Patents
Self-locking telescoping device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020050723A1 US20020050723A1 US09/921,023 US92102301A US2002050723A1 US 20020050723 A1 US20020050723 A1 US 20020050723A1 US 92102301 A US92102301 A US 92102301A US 2002050723 A1 US2002050723 A1 US 2002050723A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- inner tube
- actuator rod
- outer tube
- cone
- shaped ramp
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R19/00—Wheel guards; Radiator guards, e.g. grilles; Obstruction removers; Fittings damping bouncing force in collisions
- B60R19/02—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects
- B60R19/24—Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles
- B60R19/38—Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles adjustably or movably mounted, e.g. horizontally displaceable for securing a space between parked vehicles
- B60R19/40—Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles adjustably or movably mounted, e.g. horizontally displaceable for securing a space between parked vehicles in the direction of an obstacle before a collision, or extending during driving of the vehicle, i.e. to increase the energy absorption capacity of the bumper
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R19/00—Wheel guards; Radiator guards, e.g. grilles; Obstruction removers; Fittings damping bouncing force in collisions
- B60R19/02—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects
- B60R19/24—Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles
- B60R19/26—Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles comprising yieldable mounting means
- B60R19/34—Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles comprising yieldable mounting means destroyed upon impact, e.g. one-shot type
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
- B60R21/02—Occupant safety arrangements or fittings, e.g. crash pads
- B60R21/16—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags
- B60R21/23—Inflatable members
- B60R21/231—Inflatable members characterised by their shape, construction or spatial configuration
- B60R2021/23123—Heat protection panels
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
- Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
- Y10T74/2045—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable] and sheath support, connector, or anchor
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
- Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
- Y10T74/20462—Specific cable connector or guide
Definitions
- This invention relates to a self-locking telescoping device capable of functioning under impact as an energy absorber.
- a motor vehicle typically includes a bumper bar and an energy absorber which supports the bumper bar on a body of the motor vehicle for translation though a relatively short energy-absorbing stroke in response to a low speed impact on the bumper bar.
- a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact is converted by the energy absorber into work.
- its short energy-absorbing stroke is quickly traversed and most of the kinetic energy of the impact is converted into work by plastic deformation of body structure of the motor vehicle behind the bumper bar.
- 5,370,429 supports a bumper bar close to a body of a motor vehicle except when sensors on the vehicle detect an impending impact. Then, the telescoping device extends the bumper bar out from the body to maximize the energy-absorbing stroke of the bumper bar. During the energy-absorbing stroke, hydraulic fluid is throttled through an orifice of the telescoping device to absorb a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact.
- the telescoping device described in the aforesaid U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,429 is not “self-locking”, i.e., does not become structurally rigid in compression under any circumstances, and requires a fluid reservoir and fluid seals which may leak during the service life of the device. Accordingly, manufacturers continue to seek improved telescoping devices which are self-locking and which are also suitable for use as bumper energy absorbers.
- This invention is a new and improved self-locking telescoping device including a stationary outer tube, an inner tube telescoped into the outer tube having a cone-shaped ramp at an inboard end thereof, and a plurality of metal spheres between the cone-shaped ramp and the outer tube.
- the metal spheres become wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the outer tube when the inner tube is thrust into the outer tube in a collapse direction corresponding to a decrease in the length of the telescoping device thereby locking the inner and outer tubes together and rendering the telescoping device structurally rigid in the collapse direction.
- the self-locking telescoping device further includes an actuator rod, a driver which translates the actuator in the collapse direction and in an opposite expansion direction corresponding to an increase in the length of the telescoping device, a first clutch which translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the expansion direction, a second clutch which translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the collapse direction, and a tubular retainer on the actuator rod having a plurality of closed-ended slots around respective ones of the metal spheres. The ends of the slots prevent the spheres from becoming wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the outer tube when the second clutch translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the collapse direction.
- FIG. 1 is a partially broken-away perspective view of a self-locking telescoping device according to this invention
- FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention.
- FIG. 3 is similar to FIG. 2 showing structural elements of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in different relative positions;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in a motor vehicle bumper energy absorber application;
- FIG. 5 is a graphic representation of an algorithm controlling the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in the motor vehicle bumper energy absorber application;
- FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a modified embodiment of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention.
- FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 6 showing structural elements of the modified self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in different relative positions;
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the portion of FIG. 6 identified by the reference circle 8 in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 9 is a fragmentary perspective view of another modified embodiment of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention.
- a self-locking telescoping device 10 includes a stationary outer tube 12 having an inside cylindrical wall 14 and an inner tube 16 telescoped into the outer tube through an end 18 of the latter.
- An end fitting 20 rigidly attached to the inner tube constitutes an inboard end thereof in the outer tube and includes an outside cylindrical wall 22 bearing against and cooperating with the inside cylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube in supporting the inner tube on the outer tube for translation in an expansion direction “E” corresponding to an increase in the length of the device 10 and in a opposite collapse direction “C” corresponding to a decrease in the length of the device each parallel to a longitudinal centerline 24 of the outer tube.
- An annular groove 26 in the outside cylindrical wall 22 of the end fitting 20 includes a bottom 28 , a small diameter end 30 , and a big diameter end 32 .
- the bottom 28 of the groove annular flares outward, i.e., toward the inside cylindrical wall 14 , from the small diameter end 30 to the big diameter end 32 and constitutes a cone-shaped ramp 34 on the inner tube at the inboard end thereof.
- a plurality of hard steel spheres 36 are disposed in the annular groove 26 .
- the spheres 36 are cupped in the annular groove 26 against the small diameter end 30 thereof, FIG. 2, where they slide along the inside cylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube without obstructing translation of the inner tube.
- the spheres roll up the cone-shaped ramp 34 and quickly become wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the inside cylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube thereby effectively locking the inner and the outer tubes together and rendering the self-locking telescoping device structurally rigid in the collapse direction “C”.
- the telescoping device 10 When the thrust on the inner tube in the collapse direction “C” is attributable to an extreme impact on the inner tube, the telescoping device 10 functions as an energy absorber. That is, with the steel spheres 36 wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the inside cylindrical wall of the outer tube, and the self-locking telescoping device therefore structurally rigid in the collapse direction “C”, the steel spheres plastically deform the outer tube 12 by rolling tracks therein when the thrust attributable to the extreme impact exceeds the yield strength of the material from which the outer tube 12 is constructed. Such plastic deformation absorbs energy by converting into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact.
- the inner and outer tubes 16 , 12 are interrupted by a plurality of perforations 39 .
- the interstices between the perforations 39 constitute crush initiators.
- the outer tube plastically deforms at the crush initiators when the thrust attributable to the extreme impact exceeds the yield strength of the material from which the outer tube 12 is constructed.
- Such plastic deformation absorbs energy by converting into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact.
- the self-locking telescoping device 10 further includes an actuator rod 38 telescoped into a second end 40 of the outer tube 12 and into a bore 42 in the end fitting 20 on the inner tube.
- the actuator rod has a rack gear 44 thereon which meshes with a pinion gear 46 .
- the pinion gear 46 is connected by a pinion shaft 48 to a prime mover in the form of an electric motor 50 so that the motor, the pinion gear, and the rack gear constitute a drive means operable to translate the actuator rod back and forth in the expansion and collapse directions “E”, “C” of the inner tube.
- a tubular hub 52 is rigidly attached to the actuator rod 38 and supports the actuator rod in the bore 42 in the end fitting 20 for translation relative to the inner tube in the direction of the longitudinal centerline 24 of the outer tube.
- a ring 54 is rigidly attached to the hub 52 at the end thereof facing the rack gear 44 on the actuator rod and cooperates with the inside cylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube in supporting the actuator rod on the outer tube for back and forth translation in the expansion and collapse directions “E”, “C” of the inner tube.
- An annular flange 56 on the end of the hub 52 opposite the ring 54 faces an annular shoulder 58 , FIG. 3, on the end fitting 20 around the bore 42 .
- a compression spring 60 seats against the ring 54 and against the end fitting 20 and biases the end fitting and the actuator rod in opposite directions until the annular flange 56 seats against the annular shoulder 58 .
- a tubular retainer 62 of the telescoping device 10 surrounds the compression spring 60 and overlaps the gap between the end fitting 20 and the ring 54 .
- the retainer includes a hooked end 64 , FIG. 2, seated in a corresponding annular groove in the ring 54 whereby the retainer is rigidly attached to the ring and, therefore, to the actuator rod 38 .
- the tubular retainer has a plurality of slots 66 , FIG. 1, parallel to the longitudinal centerline 24 of the outer tube each of which terminates at a closed end 68 .
- Each slot receives a corresponding one of the spheres 36 and has a length calculated to locate its closed end 68 close to the corresponding sphere when the spring 60 thrusts the annular flange 56 on the hub 52 against the annular shoulder 58 on the end fitting 20 , FIG. 2.
- the ring 54 and the spring 60 constitute a first clutch which effects unitary translation of the actuator rod and the inner tube in the expansion direction “E” in response to corresponding rotation of the pinion gear 46 . That is, when the pinion gear rotates clockwise, FIGS. 2 - 3 , the thrust applied to the actuator rod is transferred to the end fitting 20 through the ring 54 and the spring 60 and urges the inner tube in the expansion direction “E”. At the same time, the spheres 36 remain cupped against the small diameter end 30 of the annular groove 26 where they slide along the inside cylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube without interfering with translation of the outer tube.
- the annular flange 56 on the hub and the annular shoulder 58 on the end fitting 20 constitute a second clutch which effects unitary translation of the actuator rod and the inner tube 16 in the collapse direction “C” in response to corresponding rotation of the pinion gear 46 . That is, when the pinion gear rotates counterclockwise, FIGS. 2 - 3 , the thrust applied to the actuator rod 38 is transferred directly to the end fitting through the flange 56 and the annular shoulder 58 and urges the inner tube in the collapse direction “C”. At the same time, the ring 54 translates with the actuator rod in the collapse direction “C” so that the retainer 62 and the end fitting 20 translate as a unit in the same direction.
- the closed ends 68 of the slots 66 prevent the spheres 36 from rolling up the cone-shaped ramp 34 and thus prevent the spheres from becoming wedged between the end fitting 20 and the outer tube 14 and interfering with translation of the inner tube in the collapse direction “C”.
- FIGS. 4 - 5 a pair of the self-locking telescoping devices 10 are illustrated in a bumper energy absorber application on a schematically represented motor vehicle 70 having a frame 72 and a bumper bar 74 .
- the outer tubes 12 are rigidly attached to the frame 72 on opposite sides of thereof and the inner tubes 16 are rigidly attached to the bumper bar.
- An electronic control module (ECM) 76 on the motor vehicle is connected to each of the electric motors 50 and to a transducer 78 which provides electronic signals to the ECM corresponding to the velocity of the motor vehicle.
- ECM electronice control module
- the bumper bar 74 is translated by the actuator rods and the inner tubes from a retracted position to an extended position, illustrated respectively in solid and broken lines in FIG. 4, in which the bumper bar protrudes further in front of the frame 72 .
- the bumper bar is translated by the actuator rods and the inner tubes from its extended position back to its retracted position.
- a flow chart 80 depicts an algorithm according to which the ECM 76 turns the electric motors 50 on and off including a start block 82 initiated when the electrical system of the motor vehicle is turned on with the bumper bar in its retracted position.
- the algorithm monitors the velocity of the motor vehicle through an electrical signal from the transducer 78 and asks at a decision block 84 whether the velocity of the motor vehicle is in a high range, e.g., above 15 miles per hour (MPH), in which a high speed impact is possible. If the answer is no, the ECM does not turn on the electric motors and the bumper bar remains in its retracted position. If the answer is yes, the algorithm turns on the electric motors through the ECM to translate the bumper bar 74 to its extended position more remote from the frame 72 where it affords increased protection against a high speed impact.
- MPH miles per hour
- the algorithm monitors the velocity of the motor vehicle through the electrical signal from the transducer 78 and asks at a decision block 86 whether the velocity of the motor vehicle is in a low range, e.g., less than 10 MPH, in which a high speed impact is improbable. If the answer is no, then the algorithm repeats the interrogation of vehicle velocity between the decision blocks 84 , 86 . If the answer is yes, the algorithm interrogates vehicle velocity a second time after a delay of about three seconds and asks at a decision block 88 whether vehicle velocity is still in the low range. If the answer is no, then the algorithm repeats the interrogation of vehicle velocity between the decision blocks 84 , 86 . If the answer is still yes, the algorithm turns on the electric motors 50 through the ECM to translate the bumper bar back to its retracted position.
- a low range e.g. 10 MPH
- FIGS. 6 - 8 another modified self-locking telescoping device 90 according to this invention is identical to the self-locking telescoping device 10 described above except as now recited. Structural elements common to the device 10 and the modified device 90 are identified in FIGS. 6 - 8 with primed reference characters.
- the modified device 90 includes a retaining ring 92 , an annular wave spring 94 , and a thrust washer 96 , FIG. 8, which constitute a preload means of the modified device.
- the retaining ring 92 is supported on the end fitting 20 ′ on the inner tube 16 ′ and constitutes the small diameter end of the annular groove in the outside cylindrical surface 22 ′ of the end fitting.
- the thrust washer 96 loosely encircles the cone-shaped ramp 34 ′ between the retaining ring 92 and the spheres 36 ′.
- the wave spring encircles the cone-shaped ramp between the retaining ring 92 and the thrust washer 96 .
- the pinion gear 46 ′ translates the inner tube 16 ′ of the modified self-locking telescoping device 90 in the collapse direction “C” through the actuator rod 38 ′, the annular flange 56 ′ on the hub 52 ′, and the annular shoulder 58 ′ on the end fitting 20 ′.
- the closed ends 68 ′, FIG. 8, of the slots 66 ′ in the tubular retainer 62 ′ prevent the spheres 36 ′ from rolling up the cone-shaped ramp 34 ′ and becoming wedged between the end fitting and the outer tube, FIG. 6, while maintaining the wave spring flexed in compression between the thrust washer and the retaining ring.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Vibration Dampers (AREA)
- Fluid-Damping Devices (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This invention relates to a self-locking telescoping device capable of functioning under impact as an energy absorber.
- A motor vehicle typically includes a bumper bar and an energy absorber which supports the bumper bar on a body of the motor vehicle for translation though a relatively short energy-absorbing stroke in response to a low speed impact on the bumper bar. During the energy-absorbing stroke, a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact is converted by the energy absorber into work. In a high speed impact on the bumper bar, however, its short energy-absorbing stroke is quickly traversed and most of the kinetic energy of the impact is converted into work by plastic deformation of body structure of the motor vehicle behind the bumper bar. As motor vehicles have become more compact, the energy-absorbing capability of their body structures has decreased due to the smaller span between the vehicle's passenger compartment and bumper bar. A telescoping device described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,429 supports a bumper bar close to a body of a motor vehicle except when sensors on the vehicle detect an impending impact. Then, the telescoping device extends the bumper bar out from the body to maximize the energy-absorbing stroke of the bumper bar. During the energy-absorbing stroke, hydraulic fluid is throttled through an orifice of the telescoping device to absorb a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact. The telescoping device described in the aforesaid U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,429 is not “self-locking”, i.e., does not become structurally rigid in compression under any circumstances, and requires a fluid reservoir and fluid seals which may leak during the service life of the device. Accordingly, manufacturers continue to seek improved telescoping devices which are self-locking and which are also suitable for use as bumper energy absorbers.
- This invention is a new and improved self-locking telescoping device including a stationary outer tube, an inner tube telescoped into the outer tube having a cone-shaped ramp at an inboard end thereof, and a plurality of metal spheres between the cone-shaped ramp and the outer tube. The metal spheres become wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the outer tube when the inner tube is thrust into the outer tube in a collapse direction corresponding to a decrease in the length of the telescoping device thereby locking the inner and outer tubes together and rendering the telescoping device structurally rigid in the collapse direction. When the thrust is attributable to a severe impact on the inner tube, the spheres plastically deform the outer tube by plowing tracks therein thereby to convert into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact. The self-locking telescoping device further includes an actuator rod, a driver which translates the actuator in the collapse direction and in an opposite expansion direction corresponding to an increase in the length of the telescoping device, a first clutch which translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the expansion direction, a second clutch which translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the collapse direction, and a tubular retainer on the actuator rod having a plurality of closed-ended slots around respective ones of the metal spheres. The ends of the slots prevent the spheres from becoming wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the outer tube when the second clutch translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the collapse direction.
- FIG. 1 is a partially broken-away perspective view of a self-locking telescoping device according to this invention;
- FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention;
- FIG. 3 is similar to FIG. 2 showing structural elements of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in different relative positions;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in a motor vehicle bumper energy absorber application;
- FIG. 5 is a graphic representation of an algorithm controlling the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in the motor vehicle bumper energy absorber application;
- FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a modified embodiment of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention;
- FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 6 showing structural elements of the modified self-locking telescoping device according to this invention in different relative positions;
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the portion of FIG. 6 identified by the
reference circle 8 in FIG. 6; and - FIG. 9 is a fragmentary perspective view of another modified embodiment of the self-locking telescoping device according to this invention.
- Referring to FIGS.1-3, a self-
locking telescoping device 10 according to this invention includes a stationaryouter tube 12 having an insidecylindrical wall 14 and aninner tube 16 telescoped into the outer tube through anend 18 of the latter. An end fitting 20 rigidly attached to the inner tube constitutes an inboard end thereof in the outer tube and includes an outsidecylindrical wall 22 bearing against and cooperating with the insidecylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube in supporting the inner tube on the outer tube for translation in an expansion direction “E” corresponding to an increase in the length of thedevice 10 and in a opposite collapse direction “C” corresponding to a decrease in the length of the device each parallel to alongitudinal centerline 24 of the outer tube. - An
annular groove 26 in the outsidecylindrical wall 22 of theend fitting 20 includes abottom 28, asmall diameter end 30, and abig diameter end 32. Thebottom 28 of the groove annular flares outward, i.e., toward the insidecylindrical wall 14, from thesmall diameter end 30 to thebig diameter end 32 and constitutes a cone-shaped ramp 34 on the inner tube at the inboard end thereof. A plurality ofhard steel spheres 36 are disposed in theannular groove 26. - During translation of the
inner tube 16 in the expansion direction “E”, thespheres 36 are cupped in theannular groove 26 against thesmall diameter end 30 thereof, FIG. 2, where they slide along the insidecylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube without obstructing translation of the inner tube. Conversely, at the onset of translation of the inner tube in the collapse direction “C”, the spheres roll up the cone-shaped ramp 34 and quickly become wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the insidecylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube thereby effectively locking the inner and the outer tubes together and rendering the self-locking telescoping device structurally rigid in the collapse direction “C”. - When the thrust on the inner tube in the collapse direction “C” is attributable to an extreme impact on the inner tube, the
telescoping device 10 functions as an energy absorber. That is, with thesteel spheres 36 wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the inside cylindrical wall of the outer tube, and the self-locking telescoping device therefore structurally rigid in the collapse direction “C”, the steel spheres plastically deform theouter tube 12 by rolling tracks therein when the thrust attributable to the extreme impact exceeds the yield strength of the material from which theouter tube 12 is constructed. Such plastic deformation absorbs energy by converting into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact. - In a modified self-
locking telescoping device 37 according to this invention, FIG. 9, the inner andouter tubes perforations 39. The interstices between theperforations 39 constitute crush initiators. With thesteel spheres 36 wedged between the cone-shaped ramp and the inside cylindrical wall of the outer tube, and the self-locking telescoping device therefore structurally rigid in the collapse direction “C”, the outer tube plastically deforms at the crush initiators when the thrust attributable to the extreme impact exceeds the yield strength of the material from which theouter tube 12 is constructed. Such plastic deformation absorbs energy by converting into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact. - The self-
locking telescoping device 10 further includes anactuator rod 38 telescoped into asecond end 40 of theouter tube 12 and into abore 42 in the end fitting 20 on the inner tube. The actuator rod has arack gear 44 thereon which meshes with apinion gear 46. Thepinion gear 46 is connected by apinion shaft 48 to a prime mover in the form of anelectric motor 50 so that the motor, the pinion gear, and the rack gear constitute a drive means operable to translate the actuator rod back and forth in the expansion and collapse directions “E”, “C” of the inner tube. - A
tubular hub 52 is rigidly attached to theactuator rod 38 and supports the actuator rod in thebore 42 in the end fitting 20 for translation relative to the inner tube in the direction of thelongitudinal centerline 24 of the outer tube. Aring 54 is rigidly attached to thehub 52 at the end thereof facing therack gear 44 on the actuator rod and cooperates with the insidecylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube in supporting the actuator rod on the outer tube for back and forth translation in the expansion and collapse directions “E”, “C” of the inner tube. Anannular flange 56 on the end of thehub 52 opposite thering 54 faces anannular shoulder 58, FIG. 3, on the end fitting 20 around thebore 42. Acompression spring 60 seats against thering 54 and against the end fitting 20 and biases the end fitting and the actuator rod in opposite directions until theannular flange 56 seats against theannular shoulder 58. - A
tubular retainer 62 of thetelescoping device 10 surrounds thecompression spring 60 and overlaps the gap between the end fitting 20 and thering 54. The retainer includes ahooked end 64, FIG. 2, seated in a corresponding annular groove in thering 54 whereby the retainer is rigidly attached to the ring and, therefore, to theactuator rod 38. The tubular retainer has a plurality ofslots 66, FIG. 1, parallel to thelongitudinal centerline 24 of the outer tube each of which terminates at a closedend 68. Each slot receives a corresponding one of thespheres 36 and has a length calculated to locate its closedend 68 close to the corresponding sphere when thespring 60 thrusts theannular flange 56 on thehub 52 against theannular shoulder 58 on the end fitting 20, FIG. 2. - The
ring 54 and thespring 60 constitute a first clutch which effects unitary translation of the actuator rod and the inner tube in the expansion direction “E” in response to corresponding rotation of thepinion gear 46. That is, when the pinion gear rotates clockwise, FIGS. 2-3, the thrust applied to the actuator rod is transferred to the end fitting 20 through thering 54 and thespring 60 and urges the inner tube in the expansion direction “E”. At the same time, thespheres 36 remain cupped against thesmall diameter end 30 of theannular groove 26 where they slide along the insidecylindrical wall 14 of the outer tube without interfering with translation of the outer tube. If the actuator rod translates in the expansion direction “E” relative to the inner tube because of friction between the inner and outer tubes, theclosed ends 68 of theslots 66 in theretainer 62 separate harmlessly from thespheres 36 until the thrust on the inner tube exceeds the friction. - Conversely, the
annular flange 56 on the hub and theannular shoulder 58 on the end fitting 20 constitute a second clutch which effects unitary translation of the actuator rod and theinner tube 16 in the collapse direction “C” in response to corresponding rotation of thepinion gear 46. That is, when the pinion gear rotates counterclockwise, FIGS. 2-3, the thrust applied to theactuator rod 38 is transferred directly to the end fitting through theflange 56 and theannular shoulder 58 and urges the inner tube in the collapse direction “C”. At the same time, thering 54 translates with the actuator rod in the collapse direction “C” so that theretainer 62 and the end fitting 20 translate as a unit in the same direction. In that circumstance, theclosed ends 68 of theslots 66 prevent thespheres 36 from rolling up the cone-shaped ramp 34 and thus prevent the spheres from becoming wedged between the end fitting 20 and theouter tube 14 and interfering with translation of the inner tube in the collapse direction “C”. - Referring to FIGS.4-5, a pair of the self-
locking telescoping devices 10 are illustrated in a bumper energy absorber application on a schematically represented motor vehicle 70 having aframe 72 and a bumper bar 74. Theouter tubes 12 are rigidly attached to theframe 72 on opposite sides of thereof and theinner tubes 16 are rigidly attached to the bumper bar. An electronic control module (ECM) 76 on the motor vehicle is connected to each of theelectric motors 50 and to atransducer 78 which provides electronic signals to the ECM corresponding to the velocity of the motor vehicle. When theECM 76 turns on the electric motors to rotate the pinion gears 46 in the expansion direction “E” of the inner tubes, the bumper bar 74 is translated by the actuator rods and the inner tubes from a retracted position to an extended position, illustrated respectively in solid and broken lines in FIG. 4, in which the bumper bar protrudes further in front of theframe 72. When the ECM turns on the electric motors to rotate the pinion gears in the collapse direction “C” of the inner tubes, the bumper bar is translated by the actuator rods and the inner tubes from its extended position back to its retracted position. - With the
electric motors 50 turned off and the bumper bar in its extended position, a severe impact on the bumper bar 74 initiates translation of theinner tubes 16 of thedevices 10 in the collapse direction “C” relative to the outer tubes and the actuator rods. Theend fittings 20 plunge toward therings 54 against the resistance of thesprings 60 while the closed ends 68 of theslots 66 in the tubular retainers separate from thespheres 36, FIG. 3. The spheres then roll up the cone-shapedramps 34, become wedged against the insidecylindrical walls 14 of the outer tubes, and commence plowing tracks in the outer tubes to convert into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact on the bumper bar. - A
flow chart 80, FIG. 5, depicts an algorithm according to which theECM 76 turns theelectric motors 50 on and off including astart block 82 initiated when the electrical system of the motor vehicle is turned on with the bumper bar in its retracted position. From thestart block 82, the algorithm monitors the velocity of the motor vehicle through an electrical signal from thetransducer 78 and asks at adecision block 84 whether the velocity of the motor vehicle is in a high range, e.g., above 15 miles per hour (MPH), in which a high speed impact is possible. If the answer is no, the ECM does not turn on the electric motors and the bumper bar remains in its retracted position. If the answer is yes, the algorithm turns on the electric motors through the ECM to translate the bumper bar 74 to its extended position more remote from theframe 72 where it affords increased protection against a high speed impact. - With the bumper bar in its extended position, the algorithm monitors the velocity of the motor vehicle through the electrical signal from the
transducer 78 and asks at adecision block 86 whether the velocity of the motor vehicle is in a low range, e.g., less than 10 MPH, in which a high speed impact is improbable. If the answer is no, then the algorithm repeats the interrogation of vehicle velocity between the decision blocks 84,86. If the answer is yes, the algorithm interrogates vehicle velocity a second time after a delay of about three seconds and asks at adecision block 88 whether vehicle velocity is still in the low range. If the answer is no, then the algorithm repeats the interrogation of vehicle velocity between the decision blocks 84,86. If the answer is still yes, the algorithm turns on theelectric motors 50 through the ECM to translate the bumper bar back to its retracted position. - Referring to FIGS.6-8, another modified self-locking
telescoping device 90 according to this invention is identical to the self-lockingtelescoping device 10 described above except as now recited. Structural elements common to thedevice 10 and the modifieddevice 90 are identified in FIGS. 6-8 with primed reference characters. In place of thecompression spring 60 indevice 10, the modifieddevice 90 includes a retainingring 92, anannular wave spring 94, and athrust washer 96, FIG. 8, which constitute a preload means of the modified device. The retainingring 92 is supported on the end fitting 20′ on theinner tube 16′ and constitutes the small diameter end of the annular groove in the outsidecylindrical surface 22′ of the end fitting. Thethrust washer 96 loosely encircles the cone-shapedramp 34′ between the retainingring 92 and thespheres 36′. The wave spring encircles the cone-shaped ramp between the retainingring 92 and thethrust washer 96. - The
pinion gear 46′ translates theinner tube 16′ of the modified self-lockingtelescoping device 90 in the collapse direction “C” through theactuator rod 38′, theannular flange 56′ on thehub 52′, and theannular shoulder 58′ on the end fitting 20′. At the same time, the closed ends 68′, FIG. 8, of theslots 66′ in thetubular retainer 62′ prevent thespheres 36′ from rolling up the cone-shapedramp 34′ and becoming wedged between the end fitting and the outer tube, FIG. 6, while maintaining the wave spring flexed in compression between the thrust washer and the retaining ring. When thepinion gear 46′ rotates in the opposite direction to translate the actuator rod in the expansion direction “E”, theinner tube 16′ and the end fitting 20′ remain stationary due to friction until thering 54′ on the actuator rod seats against the end fitting, FIG. 7. The ring and the end fitting thus constitute the aforesaid first clutch of the modifieddevice 90 which translates the inner tube as a unit with the actuator rod in the expansion direction “E”. - When the
pinion gear 46′ is stationary, thrust on the inner tube in the collapse direction “C” initiates translation of the end fitting in the same direction relative to the actuator rod while the closed ends of the slots in theretainer 62′ separate from thespheres 36′. At the same time, theannular wave spring 94 separates the retainingring 92 and thethrust washer 96 to positively and substantially instantly thrust thespheres 36′ up the cone-shapedramp 34′ into wedging engagement between the end fitting and the inside cylindrical wall of the outer tube. Thespheres 36′ thus render the modified self-lockingtelescoping device 90 structurally rigid in the collapse direction “C” unless the thrust is attributable to a severe impact on the inner tube. Then, the spheres plastically deform the outer tube by plowing tracks therein to convert into work a fraction of the kinetic energy of the impact.
Claims (14)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/921,023 US6401565B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2001-08-02 | Self-locking telescoping device |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/702,138 US6302458B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2000-10-31 | Self-locking telescope device |
US09/921,023 US6401565B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2001-08-02 | Self-locking telescoping device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/702,138 Division US6302458B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2000-10-31 | Self-locking telescope device |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020050723A1 true US20020050723A1 (en) | 2002-05-02 |
US6401565B1 US6401565B1 (en) | 2002-06-11 |
Family
ID=24819997
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/702,138 Expired - Lifetime US6302458B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2000-10-31 | Self-locking telescope device |
US09/921,023 Expired - Lifetime US6401565B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2001-08-02 | Self-locking telescoping device |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/702,138 Expired - Lifetime US6302458B1 (en) | 2000-10-31 | 2000-10-31 | Self-locking telescope device |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6302458B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1201506B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2002200949A (en) |
DE (1) | DE60103228T2 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP1486381A2 (en) * | 2003-06-13 | 2004-12-15 | Innotec Forschungs- und Entwicklungs-GmbH | Bumper for motor vehicle |
US20050103579A1 (en) * | 2003-11-18 | 2005-05-19 | Meernik Paul R. | Self locking apparatus |
US20070007780A1 (en) * | 2002-12-09 | 2007-01-11 | Lucjan Lagiewka | Kinetic energy absorber, particularly for large mobile objects |
US7299630B2 (en) | 2004-03-12 | 2007-11-27 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Positioning and locking mechanisms and articles that employ the same |
US20090295176A1 (en) * | 2005-12-06 | 2009-12-03 | Kousuke Matsubara | Impact absorbing device |
CN102770309A (en) * | 2010-02-26 | 2012-11-07 | 罗伯特·博世有限公司 | Crashbox for a motor vehicle |
US10308200B2 (en) * | 2017-09-11 | 2019-06-04 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Method and apparatus for attaching push bars |
DE102019206067A1 (en) * | 2019-04-29 | 2020-10-29 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Support device for a bumper arrangement of a vehicle and a correspondingly equipped bumper arrangement |
CN113086032A (en) * | 2021-05-13 | 2021-07-09 | 蒙阴县鹏程万里车辆有限公司 | Semitrailer capable of testing distance between semitrailer and front and rear semitrailers |
Families Citing this family (59)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2785028B1 (en) * | 1998-10-23 | 2000-12-15 | Dytesys | SHOCK ABSORBER DEVICE |
US6641166B2 (en) * | 2001-05-25 | 2003-11-04 | General Motors Corporation | Extendable and retractable knee bolster system |
DE20205514U1 (en) * | 2002-04-09 | 2003-08-28 | Dura Automotive Systems Reiche | Bumpers fixed to a vehicle frame in a changeable position |
US6702366B1 (en) | 2002-09-05 | 2004-03-09 | General Motors Corporation | Volume filling mechanical structures for modifying crash deceleration pulse |
GB2395693A (en) * | 2002-11-28 | 2004-06-02 | Autoliv Dev | A motor vehicle bonnet lifting device |
US6773044B2 (en) * | 2002-12-19 | 2004-08-10 | Daimlerchrysler Corporation | Active vehicle front structure for energy management |
US6709035B1 (en) * | 2002-12-19 | 2004-03-23 | General Motors Corporation | Extendible bumper system and method of control |
US6910558B2 (en) * | 2002-12-19 | 2005-06-28 | General Motors Corporation | Self-locking mechanism for a telescoping column |
FR2848947B1 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2006-01-13 | Pyroalliance | SAFETY DEVICE FOR RAISING A COVER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE IN THE EVENT OF COLLISION |
US6726260B1 (en) | 2003-02-20 | 2004-04-27 | General Motors Corporation | Extending bumper with combined stiffener and method |
US6834898B2 (en) | 2003-02-20 | 2004-12-28 | General Motors Corporation | Actuator mounting and method for motor vehicle bumper |
US6869132B2 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2005-03-22 | General Motors Corporation | Cross-car beam systems |
GB2400353A (en) * | 2003-04-09 | 2004-10-13 | Autoliv Dev | Pedestrian detecting system provided on a motor vehicle |
US6969088B2 (en) * | 2003-04-29 | 2005-11-29 | General Motors Corporation | Seat belt buckle presenter and method of use therefor |
US7159901B2 (en) * | 2003-06-10 | 2007-01-09 | General Motors Corporation | Deployable knee bolster for instrument panel |
US6926322B2 (en) * | 2003-11-24 | 2005-08-09 | General Motors Corporation | Laterally extendable bumper system |
US6976565B2 (en) * | 2004-02-10 | 2005-12-20 | General Motors Corporation | Load carrying axial positioners with overload energy absorption |
FR2866613B1 (en) * | 2004-02-25 | 2007-06-08 | Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa | ABSORPTION SYSTEM OF ESSENTIALLY FRONTAL SHOCKS FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE, AND A MOTOR VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A SYSTEM |
US7025547B2 (en) * | 2004-03-29 | 2006-04-11 | Boydstun Metal Works, Inc. | Vehicle transporter with screw actuators |
US7334656B2 (en) * | 2004-05-25 | 2008-02-26 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Hood elevation system |
US8419111B2 (en) * | 2005-03-02 | 2013-04-16 | Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation | Vehicle body reinforcing member |
JP4934283B2 (en) * | 2005-03-02 | 2012-05-16 | 住友金属工業株式会社 | Body reinforcement members |
CN100360347C (en) * | 2005-04-12 | 2008-01-09 | 赵铁生 | Freely telescopic buffering and energy absorbing vehicle bumper |
US7568405B2 (en) * | 2005-04-26 | 2009-08-04 | Dura Global Technologies, Inc. | Gear driven parklock assembly with terminal snap-fit housing |
US7290812B2 (en) * | 2005-05-19 | 2007-11-06 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Vehicle impact energy management system |
US7210718B1 (en) * | 2005-10-14 | 2007-05-01 | Alan Budhu | Apparatus for protecting the exterior of a vehicle |
US7275776B2 (en) * | 2005-11-29 | 2007-10-02 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Vehicle impact energy management system |
US7575402B2 (en) * | 2006-07-06 | 2009-08-18 | Toyota Motor Credit Corporation | Vehicle transporter with screw actuators |
US7347465B2 (en) * | 2006-08-22 | 2008-03-25 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Retractable automotive front end with wedge locking members |
DE102006058043B4 (en) | 2006-12-07 | 2012-11-15 | Autoliv Development Ab | bumper assembly |
US7374008B1 (en) | 2007-05-08 | 2008-05-20 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Hood elevation system |
JP2008302714A (en) * | 2007-06-05 | 2008-12-18 | Nhk Spring Co Ltd | Shock absorbing device |
JP2008302712A (en) | 2007-06-05 | 2008-12-18 | Nhk Spring Co Ltd | Shock absorbing device |
US7597027B2 (en) * | 2007-07-19 | 2009-10-06 | Young Dae Kwon | Isolator for a motion transmitting remote control assembly |
US20090026807A1 (en) * | 2007-07-24 | 2009-01-29 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Energy-Absorbing Vehicle Hood Assembly with Cushion Inner Structure |
US7735908B2 (en) * | 2007-07-24 | 2010-06-15 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Vehicle hood with sandwich inner structure |
US7699347B2 (en) * | 2007-08-27 | 2010-04-20 | Shoap Stephen D | Method and apparatus for a shared crumple zone |
FR2920840B1 (en) * | 2007-09-07 | 2012-10-05 | Poudres & Explosifs Ste Nale | CURRENT RUNNING CYLINDER, PARTICULARLY FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEM FOR PEDESTRIAN PROTECTION. |
US7635157B2 (en) * | 2007-09-11 | 2009-12-22 | GM Global Technology Operation, INC | Vehicle hood assembly with rippled cushion support |
US8489289B2 (en) * | 2008-02-19 | 2013-07-16 | Conti Temic Microelectronic Gmbh | Converter for signals between a safety device and a safety control device for a vehicle |
FR2928980B1 (en) | 2008-03-18 | 2013-03-01 | Snpe Materiaux Energetiques | VERIN LEVE HOOD WITH BRAKE ARRANGEMENT IN RETURN DESAMORCABLE |
US8113554B2 (en) * | 2008-10-30 | 2012-02-14 | Shoap Stephen D | Method and apparatus for an attachable and removable crumple zone |
DE102009015139B4 (en) * | 2009-03-31 | 2013-04-11 | Benteler Automobiltechnik Gmbh | Bumper arrangement for a motor vehicle |
KR101022784B1 (en) * | 2009-08-19 | 2011-03-17 | 한국과학기술원 | Apparutus for absorbing colliding energy of car with varable length |
US8113555B2 (en) | 2009-08-21 | 2012-02-14 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Vehicle impact mitigation system |
US8016332B1 (en) | 2009-12-28 | 2011-09-13 | Shoap Stephen D | Method and apparatus for a crumple zone with selectable volume |
WO2013133830A2 (en) * | 2012-03-08 | 2013-09-12 | Thomson Industries, Inc. | Telescoping linear actuator with screw drives |
US8465054B1 (en) * | 2012-05-04 | 2013-06-18 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | System for providing crash compatibility between automotive vehicles |
US9068616B1 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2015-06-30 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Vehicle suspension system |
CN203879127U (en) * | 2014-05-19 | 2014-10-15 | 南京东屋电气有限公司 | Safety locking mechanism for lock |
SE1550691A1 (en) * | 2015-05-28 | 2016-10-25 | Autoliv Dev | Pedestrian safety arrangement for a vehicle |
DE102015112496A1 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2017-02-02 | Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft | Body part of a vehicle |
WO2017079446A1 (en) | 2015-11-03 | 2017-05-11 | Schlage Lock Company Llc | Adjustable length cable |
DE102015224456A1 (en) * | 2015-12-07 | 2017-06-08 | Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft | Pedestrian protection device for a motor vehicle |
US10207667B2 (en) * | 2017-01-03 | 2019-02-19 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. | Bumper assemblies for vehicles including low-energy impact indicators |
US10315598B2 (en) * | 2017-03-06 | 2019-06-11 | Qiusheng Gao | Safe protection equipment for all vehicles and drivers from both front and rear |
US10279765B2 (en) * | 2017-03-06 | 2019-05-07 | Qiusheng Gao | Safe protection equipment for all vehicles and drivers from both front and rear |
US10875491B2 (en) * | 2018-12-28 | 2020-12-29 | Key Safety Systems, Inc. | Body panel lifter mechanical energy management system |
CN112193189B (en) * | 2020-10-10 | 2021-12-17 | 宁波昌扬机械工业有限公司 | Rear anti-collision beam of automobile |
Family Cites Families (27)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3705741A (en) * | 1971-07-30 | 1972-12-12 | Gen Motors Corp | Energy absorbing bumper mount and restoration tool therefor |
US3741560A (en) * | 1971-09-01 | 1973-06-26 | Gen Motors Corp | Dampened shock absorbing bumper |
US3788148A (en) * | 1972-07-10 | 1974-01-29 | Gen Motors Corp | Energy absorber for collapsible steering columns or the like |
US3721320A (en) * | 1972-08-26 | 1973-03-20 | J Hirsch | Energy absorption apparatus |
US3848886A (en) * | 1972-10-05 | 1974-11-19 | Ford Motor Co | Body support and impact absorbing frame system for a motor vehicle |
US3976287A (en) * | 1972-10-16 | 1976-08-24 | Menasco Manufacturing Company | Shock isolator construction |
FR2205147A5 (en) * | 1972-10-27 | 1974-05-24 | Chausson Usines Sa | |
US4272114A (en) * | 1976-12-22 | 1981-06-09 | Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Impact absorbing device |
US4141117A (en) * | 1977-06-09 | 1979-02-27 | Brammall, Inc. | Releasing tool for use with a releasable cone lock |
US4518183A (en) * | 1984-02-27 | 1985-05-21 | Lee Joseph K | Extendible safety impact bags for vehicles |
GB8520612D0 (en) * | 1985-08-16 | 1985-09-25 | Bwp Controls Ltd | Cable-&-sleeve connections |
US4679837A (en) * | 1986-04-04 | 1987-07-14 | General Motors Corporation | Hard bar bumper for vehicles |
US4787263A (en) * | 1987-03-23 | 1988-11-29 | Acco Babcock Inc. | Automatic self-adjusting cable system |
US4786459A (en) * | 1987-07-29 | 1988-11-22 | Mundo James D | Vehicle impact energy absorber |
US4886295A (en) * | 1988-12-05 | 1989-12-12 | General Motors Corporation | Vehicle occupant protection system |
US5015023A (en) * | 1989-12-11 | 1991-05-14 | Hall Gaddis G | Automatic cable gripping device |
ES2024192A6 (en) * | 1990-04-23 | 1992-02-16 | Pujol & Tarago | Self-regulating device for the length of the security brake cable of motor vehicles. |
DE4028448A1 (en) * | 1990-09-07 | 1992-03-12 | Suspa Compart Ag | REVERSIBLE IMPACT DAMPER, ESPECIALLY FOR MOTOR VEHICLES |
DE4113031A1 (en) | 1991-04-20 | 1992-10-22 | Teves Gmbh Co Ohg Alfred | BUMPER SYSTEM WITH AN EXTENDABLE BUMPER FOR VEHICLES |
US5273330A (en) * | 1992-11-23 | 1993-12-28 | General Motors Corporation | Twist-lock mounting assembly and method for a bumper energy absorber |
EP0627570A1 (en) * | 1993-05-05 | 1994-12-07 | VOFA-WERK XAVIER VORBRÜGGEN GmbH & Co. KG | Control cable end fitting |
US5732801A (en) * | 1996-08-05 | 1998-03-31 | Gertz; David C. | Energy absorbing bumper support structure |
BE1010760A3 (en) * | 1996-11-22 | 1999-01-05 | Solvay | Anti-shock. |
DE19654559C2 (en) * | 1996-12-27 | 2001-02-08 | Euromotive Gmbh | Shock absorbing device for a motor vehicle |
US5967573A (en) * | 1998-10-29 | 1999-10-19 | General Motors Corporation | Bumper energy absorber |
US6076856A (en) * | 1999-01-12 | 2000-06-20 | General Motors Corporation | Belt tension and energy absorbing apparatus |
US6217090B1 (en) * | 1999-02-19 | 2001-04-17 | Mohammed Berzinji | Safety bumpers |
-
2000
- 2000-10-31 US US09/702,138 patent/US6302458B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2001
- 2001-08-02 US US09/921,023 patent/US6401565B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-08-21 EP EP01120092A patent/EP1201506B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-08-21 DE DE60103228T patent/DE60103228T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-10-31 JP JP2001334846A patent/JP2002200949A/en active Pending
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070007780A1 (en) * | 2002-12-09 | 2007-01-11 | Lucjan Lagiewka | Kinetic energy absorber, particularly for large mobile objects |
EP1486381A2 (en) * | 2003-06-13 | 2004-12-15 | Innotec Forschungs- und Entwicklungs-GmbH | Bumper for motor vehicle |
EP1486381A3 (en) * | 2003-06-13 | 2005-11-30 | Innotec Forschungs- und Entwicklungs-GmbH | Bumper for motor vehicle |
US20050103579A1 (en) * | 2003-11-18 | 2005-05-19 | Meernik Paul R. | Self locking apparatus |
US7344005B2 (en) | 2003-11-18 | 2008-03-18 | General Motors Corporation | Self locking apparatus |
US7299630B2 (en) | 2004-03-12 | 2007-11-27 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Positioning and locking mechanisms and articles that employ the same |
US20090295176A1 (en) * | 2005-12-06 | 2009-12-03 | Kousuke Matsubara | Impact absorbing device |
CN102770309A (en) * | 2010-02-26 | 2012-11-07 | 罗伯特·博世有限公司 | Crashbox for a motor vehicle |
US10308200B2 (en) * | 2017-09-11 | 2019-06-04 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Method and apparatus for attaching push bars |
DE102019206067A1 (en) * | 2019-04-29 | 2020-10-29 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Support device for a bumper arrangement of a vehicle and a correspondingly equipped bumper arrangement |
CN113086032A (en) * | 2021-05-13 | 2021-07-09 | 蒙阴县鹏程万里车辆有限公司 | Semitrailer capable of testing distance between semitrailer and front and rear semitrailers |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1201506B1 (en) | 2004-05-12 |
DE60103228D1 (en) | 2004-06-17 |
US6302458B1 (en) | 2001-10-16 |
JP2002200949A (en) | 2002-07-16 |
DE60103228T2 (en) | 2005-05-04 |
US6401565B1 (en) | 2002-06-11 |
EP1201506A1 (en) | 2002-05-02 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6302458B1 (en) | Self-locking telescope device | |
US5967573A (en) | Bumper energy absorber | |
US6227583B1 (en) | Automotive impact energy absorption device | |
US6135251A (en) | Shock absorber for a motor vehicle and method of making same | |
US3508633A (en) | Plastically deformable impact absorbing means for vehicles | |
US3146014A (en) | Energy absorbing vehicle bumper assembly | |
US6264239B1 (en) | Steering column arrangement for a motor vehicle | |
US6189941B1 (en) | Energy-absorbing deformation system | |
US3492888A (en) | Steering assembly for absorbing impact | |
US4445708A (en) | Energy absorbing steering column for vehicles | |
US3392599A (en) | Energy absorbing device | |
US3538785A (en) | Energy absorbing devices | |
US3741560A (en) | Dampened shock absorbing bumper | |
US3373630A (en) | Steering column assembly | |
US3262332A (en) | Telescopeable steering assembly | |
US20040183337A1 (en) | Cross-car beam systems | |
US7290810B2 (en) | Device for absorption of impact energy on an automobile | |
GB1569542A (en) | Energy absorber system for a vehicle | |
US6834898B2 (en) | Actuator mounting and method for motor vehicle bumper | |
US3590655A (en) | Energy-absorbing steering column | |
US3698259A (en) | Relating to energy absorbing shafts and method of making same | |
US6179356B1 (en) | Impact damper for a motor vehicle and method of making same | |
US3972551A (en) | Telescoping energy absorber for vehicle bumpers and method of assembly | |
US6910558B2 (en) | Self-locking mechanism for a telescoping column | |
US3899937A (en) | Collapsible steering column assembly |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:022117/0047 Effective date: 20050119 Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.,MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:022117/0047 Effective date: 20050119 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, DISTRICT Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:022201/0501 Effective date: 20081231 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CITICORP USA, INC. AS AGENT FOR BANK PRIORITY SECU Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:022556/0013 Effective date: 20090409 Owner name: CITICORP USA, INC. AS AGENT FOR HEDGE PRIORITY SEC Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:022556/0013 Effective date: 20090409 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY;REEL/FRAME:023238/0015 Effective date: 20090709 |
|
XAS | Not any more in us assignment database |
Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY;REEL/FRAME:023124/0383 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNORS:CITICORP USA, INC. AS AGENT FOR BANK PRIORITY SECURED PARTIES;CITICORP USA, INC. AS AGENT FOR HEDGE PRIORITY SECURED PARTIES;REEL/FRAME:023127/0326 Effective date: 20090814 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, DISTRICT Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:023155/0922 Effective date: 20090710 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UAW RETIREE MEDICAL BENEFITS TRUST, MICHIGAN Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:023161/0864 Effective date: 20090710 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:UAW RETIREE MEDICAL BENEFITS TRUST;REEL/FRAME:025311/0680 Effective date: 20101026 Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY;REEL/FRAME:025245/0273 Effective date: 20100420 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, DELAWARE Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:025327/0222 Effective date: 20101027 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC, MICHIGAN Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:025780/0795 Effective date: 20101202 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC, MICHIGAN Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:034183/0680 Effective date: 20141017 |