Abstract: An impact absorbing device, preferably for trucks, attenuates the impact of colliding vehicles. A rigid mount secures the apparatus to the truck rear underside. A rigid chassis is suspended from the mount. An impact absorbing bumper exposed for contact at the truck rear controls a displaceable ram that is slidably captivated by the chassis. A wound band assembly suspended beneath the chassis is activated by displacement of the ram. The wound band assembly connects to suitable levers on each side of the chassis that interconnect it with shock absorbers. Energy is dissipated in the shock absorbers over a predetermined compression deflection. This distance is substantially less than the travel distance of the ram, and the mechanical advantage reduction is provided by the combination of the levers and the wound band assembly. When the bumper is forcibly impacted, the ram accelerates longitudinally, tightening the wound band assembly and compressing the shock absorbers through the levers.

Abstract: The apparatus stabilizes loads beneath helicopters to prevent undesirable load movement while allowing in-flight optimization of the load's center of gravity to reduce drag and increase banking capability and top speed. An anchoring bracket secures the apparatus to the helicopter. The apparatus comprises an upper section that controls load pitch and lateral movement and a lower section that controls load height during unloading. A pitch regulator comprises a c-shaped yoke with upper and lower collars penetrated by a hollow shaft and elevator. A lateral movement regulator comprises a coupling and a y-shaped chassis. The coupling comprises a central sleeve captivated between the upper and lower collars and a motor permitting selective rotation about the elevator. The chassis secures to the coupling via a ball and socket and a middle suspension system captivated between coupling and suspension plates. Spaced apart terminal chassis arms support the load via a bearing wing.