Abstract: Single tube vehicle suspension strut with built-in shock absorber in which the piston rod is formed from tubing that provides a reservoir for shock absorber fluids and further featuring this type piston valving with the deflecting spring discs and cooperating metering pin construction which can readily reduce high pressure build-up and which can be adjusted to provide ride and level control. This unit can be used to provide a leveling feature with the gas spring in the piston tube operatively connected to suitable controls for pressurized gas and exhaust.

Abstract: The energy absorber housing is fixed to the vehicle frame and contains a cylindrical capsule of urethane or other resilient energy-absorbing material. An elongated stepped diameter cylindrical plunger extending inwardly from the bumper has its small diameter portion projecting through a central passage in the capsule. On impact of the bumper the capsule dissipates impact energy by radial deflection as the large diameter portion of the plunger moves into the capsule in response to impact induced movement of the bumper. On removal of the impact load, the capsule recovers to its original shape at a predetermined slow rate and with a force of recovery that acts on a conical wall surface between the two diameter portions of the plunger to return the plunger and the bumper assembly to their original positions.

Abstract: This energy absorber incorporates a mounting bracket secured to a vehicle which by track and follower mechanism slidably mounts a support bracket that is secured to a vehicle bumper. One bracket supports a laterally extending energy absorbing band of resilient material engaged by the follower carried by the other bracket. On impact, the brackets are telescoped inwardly and an intermediate portion of the band is displaced by the follower to effect band deflection and energy absorption. On rebound, the band gradually restores to its original configuration to return the brackets and bumper to its pre-impact position.

Abstract: Energy absorbing unit for vehicle bumper support having inner and outer telescoping cylinders with primary valve for metering fluid between a pair of contractible and expansible fluid chambers to dissipate impact energy. An auxiliary pressure relief valve internal of the unit in parallel with the primary valve opens in response to predetermined pressure buildup in one of the chambers to control pressure and prevent damage to the unit. A gas spring in the unit moves the two cylinders in their extended position on removal of bumper impact load.