Abstract: In order to increase the safety of vehicle occupants, in particular in order to reduce the stresses acting in a vehicle deceleration in the event of an impact, a force-transmission element (1) having two different levels is provided for an engine compartment. According to the invention this force-transmission element is incorporated into the force path which is initiated by the impact and it can be shifted from one level to another according to the position of the engine in the engine compartment.

Abstract: The invention relates to an impact energy absorbing device for vehicles. The invention is suited, but not limited to, for use in rail vehicles. The aim of the invention is to provide an impact energy absorbing device, which also fulfils future requirements with regard to crash safety. In order to enable a larger working travel without having to increase the amount of force, the energy absorbing process is spatially displaced. The impact energy absorbing device comprises activatable or deactivatable means for absorbing impact energy. In one embodiment a front part of the rail vehicle is extended, swung out and/or pushed out counter to the direction of impact especially counter to the direction of travel, when these means are activated, and afterwards, the produced space is at least partially, in particular, completely filled with energy absorption elements.

Abstract: This invention comprises a composite part (1) consisting of a top (11) and bottom (12) metal cover layer and a sandwich component (10) that comprises a core (13) made of a honeycomb structure, and at least one metal profile (20) equipped with a connecting surface (21) for the discharge of forces into the sandwich component (10), whereby the profile or profiles are joined to the sandwich component in a flat manner, and a method for its manufacture.