Steering column impact protection (Freelander 2)

The steering column is designed in such a way that in a serious collision, it performs two functions. The intermediate shaft must isolate the steering wheel from the movement of the steering rack (changing the angle of the steering wheel affects the deployment of the driver's airbag).

In addition, to prevent injury to the driver in the event of an airbag impact, the entire upper section of the steering column assembly gradually moves forward when the driver comes into contact with the airbag. This movement helps to bring the driver to a safe and gradual stop. The steering column is equipped with a horizontal load limiting system, which differs from conventional systems based on movement along the axis of the column.

Horizontal Load Limiting System

Pos.	spare part no	Name
A	-	Steering column of conventional design
B	-	Horizontal Load Limiting System
1	-	Direction of force and displacement do not match
2	-	Movement matches effort

The horizontal load limiting system provides a progressive and stable load limiting characteristic as shown in the illustration "IN". The load applied to the steering column causes it to move in a horizontal plane with the driver. This movement is controlled by the power distribution plate. The plate has petals that flex in a controlled manner, absorbing energy and allowing the steering column to move with the rider.


The plate is bolted to the steering column outer bracket, which is attached to the cross member and inner bracket.

Optional pyrotechnic loader - North America only (NAS)

NOTE: Steering column shown rotated for clarity

Pos.	spare part no	Name
1	-	Power Distribution Plate
2	-	Pin
3	-	pyrotechnic device
4	-	electrical connector

On vehicles for North American markets, an additional pyrotechnic device is installed that provides increased energy absorption, which allows the driver not to wear a seat belt. If a collision occurs and the driver is wearing a seat belt, the device will not work.

The pyrotechnic device is located under the power distribution plate. If the driver's seat belt is not fastened, the system detects this and in the event of an emergency situation in which the airbag is activated, the device will deploy, thereby retracting the pin that is engaged with the hole in the center lobe on the power distribution plate. This provides the necessary increase in energy absorption and allows you to compensate for the additional load caused by an unbelted driver.