Steering Columns: Description

Vehicles are equipped with energy-absorbing steering columns. Principle of design is based on tubular expanded metal section of column which collapses under impact, absorbing impact energy. Impact forces, working on column axially (as in head-on collision), push expanded metal section together. Lateral impact deforms column sideways. Column housing is attached to instrument panel with special mounting: guide pieces attached with plastic rivets. Impact force causes pins to shear off and guide pieces to slide from mounting. Shaft and housing are then pushed through the partition and deform the energy absorbing element.