Importance

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Abstract

A collapsible steering column assembly having a variable energy absorption curve is disclosed. The assembly includes a column jacket and an energy absorption device defining a deformation channel. A strap, interconnecting the column jacket and the energy absorption device, is disposed within the channel and moves along a deformation path in response to collapse of the column jacket. A pin is moveable into the deformation channel by a pyrotechnic device to alter the deformation path. Accordingly, the energy absorption device absorbs energy at a first rate when the pin is not disposed in the deformation channel, and absorbs energy at a second higher rate when the pin is disposed in the deformation channel.

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First Claim