Abstract: The present invention provides an energy absorption device for cushioning dynamic impacts imparted against a support bar of a vehicle by an occupant. The energy absorption device has an elongated arched impact shell having an impact side, and a member engagement side opposite the impact side. Also provided are a plurality of longitudinally spaced arched ribs that each has a first edge that is wholly attached to the member engagement side of the elongated arched impact shell and a second edge that is spaced from the first edge. The second edge abuts against the support bar of the vehicle. A plurality of impact can be stacked one upon another to increase energy absorption and decrease acceleration upon impact.

Abstract: A vehicle body interior trim molding for attachment to a pillar curved metal shell structure for absorbing energy to protect occupants of the passenger compartment in case of an accident. The molding includes an elongated molding panel of generally concavo-convex curved section having an outwardly facing concave surface formed with a plurality of saber-shaped parallel transversely disposed ribs. Each rib has a proximal convex curved base edge, integrally molded to the concave surface, and a distal concave curved free edge positioned in juxtaposed conformity with an opposed convex curved surface of the pillar shell. The molding panel ribs cooperate with the shell for absorbing forces exerted thereon by an occupant striking the molding panel by initial deflection of the panel together with one for more of the ribs, and thereafter permanent deformation of the panel and one or more of the ribs if the force is sufficiently great.

Abstract: A system for hydrostatically measuring the volumetric deformation of a crushable foam includes a test chamber that is in fluid communication with a pressure fluid reservoir. A sample of a crushable foam is loaded within the test chamber within a latex pouch and the pressure fluid is pumped into the test chamber in order to subject the foam sample to triaxial loading. The volumetric deformation of the crushable foam is continuously monitored through suitable electronics as a function of pressure within the system.

Abstract: An energy absorbing device for materially reducing steering column motion resulting from passenger compartment intrusion in an automotive vehicle when the powertrain impacts rearward vehicle portions in a frontal collision. The energy absorbing device comprises a bracket in the form of a generally box-shaped frame having side panels and a top panel. The side panels and top panel have openings defining upper and lower struts. The struts are made of a relatively stiff, bendable, flexible material capable of controlled deformation when the powertrain impacts-the rearward vehicle portions in a frontal collision.