Interaktives, energieabsorbierendes System für eine Lenksäule in einem Fahrzeug

An interactive energy absorbing system including a steering column housing (10) that is moveable along a collapse stroke corresponding to a force of impact by an operator. The interactive energy absorbing system includes an energy absorbing component (15) that exerts a resistant force for resisting the movement of the steering column housing (10) along its collapse stroke. The energy absorbing component (15) includes a deformable strap (20) that engages a stationary reaction member (25) and a moveable reaction member (30). The stationary and moveable reaction members have an adjustable total active surface area for engaging the deformable strap (20) and generating the resistance force. The moveable reaction member (30) moves to adjust the total active surface area due to mechanical translation corresponding to the force of impact by the operator.