Study on the Optimal Design of Bellows as an Energy Absorbing Element

에너지 흡수요소로서의 주름관(bellows)의 최적설계에 관한 연구

Bellows are suggested as energy absorbing elements for automotive steering systems. A metallic bellows has nearly constant axial collapse load which is desirable as an energy absorbing element for a steering column. Axial collapsability and bending flexibility of bellows can be utilized to reduce upward tilting and backward displacement of steering columns in the early stage of high speed crash. Since bending flexibility of bellows has negative effects on the vibration characteristics of steering columns it is necessary to maximize the first natural frequency of a bellows while maintaining its plastic bending flexibility and axial collapse load. An effort is made to attain optimum design of bellows based upon the Taguchi method. A general guideline for design of bellows is suggested.