Abstract: The invention provides a telescopic member that includes a cylinder in which a rod carrying a piston is mounted to slide telescopically, the telescopic member including internal abutment mechanisms that are overridable over a predetermined force when the rod comes into abutment inside the cylinder in the shortening direction. The internal abutment mechanisms include an abutment piece extending in an open bore within the rod and projecting therefrom, the abutment piece being held to the rod via a pin.

Abstract: An impact absorber device includes at least one first portion having a short tubular shape, and at least one second portion having a short tubular shape concentrically disposed in a stacked relationship with the first portion. The first portion and the second portion engage with each other at an engagement portion which is inclined with respect to a concentric axis of the first portion and the second portion. With this arrangement, impact energy is absorbed in the case of collision accidents of vehicles such as an automobile and trains, and the dropping accidents of lifts such as elevators.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shock absorbing member which includes a pair of opposing plates and a plurality of resin tubes internally filled with a viscous body. Both end surfaces of the resin tubes are closed by the pair of the plates. The each resin tube is disposed between the pair of the plates and is surrounded by a space not filled with the viscous body. When a shock in a direction of bringing the pair of the plates closer to each other is applied, the resin tube is buckled toward the surrounding space and the viscous body leaks out from a crack generated in the resin tube by the buckling to absorb the shock.

Abstract: While comprising filled minor compartments being filled with an inclusion in which a liquid makes the major component, and vacant minor compartments being filled with the air, at least one of the vacant minor compartments adjoins the filled minor compartments, and a fragile section is formed in at least one of ribs that demarcate the filled minor compartments and the adjoining vacant minor compartments. After the fragile section has fractured, shock energy can be absorbed furthermore by means of circulation resistance to the inclusion that flows from the filled minor compartments to the vacant minor compartments.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shock absorption device making it possible to tilt the back of a seat frontward in case of a shock greater than a predetermined value, the device including a plate and an absorbing shaft, the plate including a brake cavity and a hole through which the absorbing shaft passes, the hole and the brake cavity being separated by a bridge, and the dimensions of the bridge being such as to break when the stress exerted on the back is greater than a predetermined value. The invention also relates to a seat for a passenger vehicle and, more particularly, an aircraft, the pivotal rotation of which is provided with such a device.

Abstract: A block of compressible material, such as cellular concrete, provides compressive failure characteristics suitable for arresting travel of an aircraft (or other vehicle) overrunning a runway (or other surface). Relatively thin frangible material positioned above the block provides a stronger, more damage resistant surface, while still readily fracturing in an arresting incident. Intermediate material, such as a foam layer, positioned under the frangible material may be included to provide a protective cushioning effect by mitigating transmission of external phenomena forces to the block. A fastening configuration at least partially enclosing other portions of the arresting unit provides a stable unified composite, without destroying desired compressive failure characteristics of the unit. Arresting units may also include a bottom layer of material stronger than the block of compressible material and a sealant coating with water resistant properties.

Abstract: This invention is an impact energy absorption device, in which a long part (1) made of a high strength material is disposed with its lengthwise direction kept different from an impact direction, and both terminals of the long part (1) are connected with columns (2) through upper platens (3) covering the upper faces of the columns (2) kept standing apart from each other with a predetermined distance (L), comprising a structural system, in which a deformation of the long part (1) caused by the impact force applied to it, causes the upper platens (3) to move for compressing or deflecting the columns (2), thereby absorbing the impact energy. The conventional column type energy absorption member is weak against an impact applied in a direction within a wide angle (?) such as an impact applied in an oblique direction.

Abstract: An energy absorbing structural strut employs a composite tube bonded to an end fitting with the bond being slightly lower in strength than the crushing strength of the tube in axial compression. The end fitting incorporates an anvil to rupture the tube and absorb energy upon shearing of the bond with the strut in compression.

Abstract: A shock absorbing component used as a structural component which realizes a larger energy absorption volume compared to the conventional shock absorbing component is provided. According to the present invention, with regards to the shock absorbing component, a sheet-shaped longitudinal component is formed by placing two or more types of sheet-shaped part materials alternately in the longitudinal direction, and this sheet-shaped longitudinal component is implemented in all of the layers or a part of the layers in the surface component of the shock absorbing component. Therefore, when load due to impact if applied to this shock absorbing component, unlike cases wherein the surface component is formed from a single component, the direction of the load and strain is intricately dispersed by two or more types of sheet-shaped longitudinal components and the concentration of load and deformation is prevented, thereby replacing impact energy with energy which destroys a wide area of the shock absorbing component.

Abstract: An energy-absorbing vehicle hood includes outer and inner layers defining a cavity filled with foam material. The outer layer fractures when subjected to a crush load to thereby transmit the load to the foam material where it is absorbed, and both layers are continuously and directly bonded to the foam material. A vehicle includes a vehicle hood assembly having outer and inner layers defining a cavity, with foam material filling the cavity. The outer layer fractures when subjected to a crush load to transmit the load to the foam material for uniformly absorption of the crush load. A hood panel is also provided for use with a vehicle, including an energy-absorbing polymer foam material entrapped between an outer and inner polymer membrane. The membranes have a crush strength, and the foam material is characterized by an absence of a reinforcing structure.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, an energy-absorbing device includes a section of material having a plurality of crush zones along a longitudinal length thereof, a first crush zone of the plurality of crush zones including a pair of opposed first bends formed in a first side and a second side of the section, a pair of opposed second bends formed in a third side and a fourth side of the section, and a first set of notches spaced around a perimeter of the section at a longitudinal location corresponding to the first bends and second bends. The first bends project in a direction that is one of inward and outward and the second bends project in a direction opposite that of the first bends. At least one of the other crush zones includes a second set of notches spaced around the perimeter of the section.

Abstract: An energy absorbing countermeasure for motor vehicle doors comprises a body having at least a first zone and a second zone. Each zone has at least one surface with recesses in the surface and portions between recesses. The portions are broken upon impact and enter into the recess to exhibit energy absorbing efficiency. The recesses in the first zone are arranged or configured to absorb a first desired peak load during impact and the recesses in the second zone are arranged or configured to absorb a second desired peak load during impact. The first desired peak load is different from the second desired peak load.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide an impact energy absorbing structure in the form of resin moldings such as interior components of automobiles and other impact energy absorbing structures, with better impact properties, particularly the performance in absorbing impact energy to passenger heads. The invention relates to an impact energy absorbing structure for absorbing the kinetic energy of a colliding object by means of its own deformation, wherein when a certain colliding object collides with the impact energy absorbing structure at a certain velocity, the relationship between dimensionless displacement D, where the deformation of the impact energy absorbing structure is normalized by the permissible deformation, and the dimensionless energy E, where the kinetic energy absorbed by the impact energy absorbing structure is normalized by the kinetic energy of the colliding object prior to collision, meets E>D.

Abstract: A steering column assembly (10) of the collapsible type includes a mounting plate (30) for rigid attachment to a vehicle body structure. The mounting plate (30) supports the steering column (12) during normal operation through interconnecting release capsules (24) which allow the steering column (12) to collapse, away from the rigidly attached mounting plate (30), during a frontal collision. An energy absorbing tear strip (44) in formed integrally in the mounting plate (30) and is connected via tab (43) to a fixed connection (42) which adjoins a portion of the column bracket (18). The column bracket (18) moves together with the steering column (12) during a collapse situation. The tear strip (44) simultaneously bends and tears in a peeling fashion as the steering column (12) collapses to provide energy absorption for the assembly (10).

Abstract: Aircraft arresting beds constructed of cellular concrete at ends of runways may be subject to damaging effects of jet blast phenomena. Arresting units resistant to such effects and related methods are described. A block of compressible material, such as cellular concrete, provides compressive failure characteristics suitable for arresting travel of an aircraft overrunning a runway. Relatively thin frangible material positioned above the block provides a stronger, more damage resistant surface, while still readily fracturing in an arresting incident. Intermediate material, such as a foam layer, positioned under the frangible material may be included to provide a protective cushioning effect by mitigating transmission of external phenomena forces to the block. A fastening configuration at least partially enclosing other portions of the arresting unit provides a stable unified composite, without destroying desired compressive failure characteristics of the unit.

Abstract: An impact energy absorbing member in which a plurality of impact absorbing plates are arranged with predetermined intervals along a direction in which a collapse stroke progresses is provided on either one of a vehicle side bracket or a column side bracket slidably fitted to the vehicle side bracket. On the other bracket, there is provided a breaking member for sequentially breaking said plurality of impact absorbing plates as the collapse stroke progresses. With this structure, the impact energy absorbing member is sequentially broken by the breaking member as the collapse stroke progresses upon secondary collision, so that impact energy is absorbed.

Abstract: A link including a rod with a connection member at each end with an axis passing through both connection members. The rod includes a fusible zone as a narrow section lying between a first rod portion connected to a first connection member and a second rod portion connected to a second connection member. The fusible zone breaks when tensile force to which the link is subjected is greater than a predetermined value. The two rod portions are inseparable in event of the fusible zone breaking by a cylinder coaxial about the axis and secured to the first rod portion, and having an end wall through which the second rod portion passes. The second rod portion includes a collar that can slide into the cylinder if the fusible zone breaks. The inside wall of the cylinder includes teeth configured to be broken by the collar if the fusible zone breaks.

Abstract: A mounting structure for a bumper rail of a front end module carrier for a vehicle includes an upper horizontal member that supports an upper portion of the carrier; a lower horizontal member that supports a lower portion of the carrier; left and right vertical members and that are formed with fastening holes and connect respective left and right sides of the upper and lower horizontal members to each other to support side portions of the carrier; and a bumper rail formed to be convexly curved forward and fixedly fastened to side rail members located at rear ends of the left and right vertical members and by bolts through the fastening holes. Each of the fastening holes includes a seating hole portion that receives and confines the bolt therein and a guide hole portion laterally extending from the seating hole portion.

Abstract: An impact absorbing type steering column apparatus provided with a collision energy absorbing device for absorbing an energy of a secondary collision of an occupant upon a collision of a vehicle comprises an energy absorption quantity adjusting device for changing a secondary collision energy absorption quantity of the collision energy absorbing device, at least one sensor for detecting a condition of the occupant or the vehicle, and electric control device for controlling a drive of the energy absorption quantity adjusting device on the basis of a result of detection by the sensor.

Abstract: A damping device used for motor vehicle safety, for damping the displacement of at least one part set in motion during a collision between a motor vehicle and an external object, the part being, for example, a bumper, a steering column or a bonnet of a motor vehicle, the device comprising an actuator that is able to displace a piston and is characterized in that it includes a wire having one end connected to a fixed portion of the vehicle, the actuator, which is secured to the part to be damped, interacting with the wire in order to retard and then stop the part.

Abstract: Vibration damper comprising a damping medium-filled pressure tube, in which a displacer is installed, where a damping device produces a damping force as a function of the movement of the displacer. A damping force-limiting device, independently of the flow of the damping medium, becomes active above a certain damping force threshold value, which is defined as a function of the vehicle. At least a partial section of the force-limiting device is connected in a fixed manner to the pressure tube below the damping force threshold value and travels an operating distance which is associated with a change in the volume of the pressure tube when the force threshold is exceeded.

Abstract: A miter saw is disclosed having a base, a blade supported by the base, a detection system adapted to detect a dangerous condition between a person and the blade, and a reaction system associated with the detection system to cause a predetermined action to take place upon detection of the dangerous condition. The blade is rotatable, and moves into a cutting zone to cut a workpiece. The predetermined action may be to stop the blade from rotating, to create an impulse against movement of the blade into the cutting zone, or to cause the blade to move away from the cutting zone.

Abstract: To prevent a shock absorbing material mounted on a vehicle body from collapsing or being scattered under the shock at the time of a collision. The four sides of a shock absorbing material formed of a foamed material are surrounded by a bellows form cover consisting of four corrugated plates inclusive of corrugated plates. Under an external force due to collision, the bellows is folded and contracted easily, but is difficult to be deformed in the width directions. Therefore, the shock absorbing material receives the energy upon collision in its initial shape, so that the energy is absorbed substantially by the compression of the shock absorbing material. Accordingly, it suffices to design a set load for the shock absorbing material by taking into account only the shock absorbing material, so that it is easy to design the shape, material and the like of the shock absorbing material.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing mechanism for a power-transmission device includes a cylindrical driven-side shaft coupled to the driving-side shaft through a constant-velocity joint to be axially relatively slidable with respect to the driving-side shaft, a center bearing for rotatably supporting the driving-side shaft to the vehicle body, and a labyrinth mechanism for sealing the inside of the center bearing. An end of the driven-side shaft on the side of the driving-side shaft is disposed axially opposite to the labyrinth mechanism. When the two shafts are slid in the direction to approach each other by an axial load input thereto, the end of the driven-side shaft collides axially with the labyrinth mechanism.

Abstract: The deformation element (1) of a rail-borne vehicle is disposed in the region of at least one deformation zone (3) located on the end side of the vehicle, wherein the deformation element (1) is formed as a tubular hollow box (6) with at least one sidewall (9) of the deformation element (1) being formed with a polygonal cross-section comprises an inwardly directed indentation (4), wherein the indentation (4) is provided on the longitudinal-side end region of the deformation element (1) remote from the rail-borne vehicle underframe (2).

Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide an apparatus for absorbing shock. This apparatus stepwise absorbs impact energy applied thereto in case of a collision of automobiles or a sudden drop of elevators to protect passengers. In an embodiment, the shock absorbing apparatus includes two or more impact panels (110, 120, 130, 140, 150 and 160), and a plurality of shock absorbing members (210, 220, 230, 240 and 250) installed between the impact panels, and each engraved with a broken line so as to crash along the broken line to absorb impact. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes two or more impact panels (410, 420, 430, 440, 450 and 460) arranged in parallel to each other, and each engraved with at least one broken line so as to crash along the broken line to absorb impact, and a panel support member (600) supporting the parallely arranged impact panels.

Abstract: An apparatus (60) for absorbing a shock comprises a first tubular member (62) and a second tubular member (80) that are slidable positioned relative to one another. A plurality of layers (94-104) of energy absorbing members (88) extend radially from the second tubular member (80) such that movement of the second tubular member (80) in a first direction relative to the first tubular member (62) sequentially deforms the layers (94-104) of energy absorbing members (88). As the layers (94-104) are sequentially deformed, a subsequent layer (96) of energy absorbing members (88) begins to deform before the previous layer (94) of energy absorbing members (88) is completely deformed. The deformation of the energy absorbing members (88) absorbs the shock.

Abstract: Impact damper as a connecting member between a bumper and a chassis of a motor vehicle for the purpose of damping the shock loading during a collision between this motor vehicle and an obstacle, predominantly through gas-spring forces and deformation work. This impact damper includes an inner tube and an outer tube, which can be displaced telescopically one inside the other, thereby changing the volume of pressurized first and second gas spaces, at least one of the gas spaces being connected to an accumulator by a pneumatic feed line. An electrically controllable control valve, by means of which the air pressure in the gas spaces can be changed, can be arranged in the pneumatic feed line. The pressure in the gas spaces can be varied by a detection sensor system in the motor vehicle, which controls a control valve and adapts the pressure to the expected momentum of the collision. It is possible for a deformation element to be displaced as well to absorb a high impact energy by deformation work.

Abstract: A single-use damping mechanism. A piston assembly fits within a chamber defined by a piston receiving member. The distal end of the piston receiving member includes a first and second passages which are disposed in fluidic series between the chamber and the ambient air. The first, inner passage is relatively small and controls the damping time of the mechanism. The second, outer passage is relatively large and holds a sealing assembly that prevents fluid from escaping from the chamber, through the first passage, until the mechanism is to be used. The piston assembly includes a pressure relief assembly, which comprises a cavity filled with a compressible material, into and out of which fluid can flow as necessary to protect the mechanism from temperature related pressure changes, and yet which does not interfere with the damping characteristics of the mechanism.

Abstract: A bumper arrangement for a front end or a rear end of an automobile having a bumper cover enclosing the bumper arrangement has a transverse support having a first and a second end. First and second spacer consoles are connected to the first and second ends of the transverse support, respectively. First and second stop plates are connected to the first and second spacer consoles opposite the transverse support. The first and second stop plates secure the bumper arrangement to longitudinal support beams of the car body extending in the longitudinal direction of the automobile. A transverse beam is positioned below the transverse support in a mounted position of the bumper arrangement. Spacer stays connect the transverse beam to the stop plates and are positioned below the spacer consoles. The transverse support and/or the spacer consoles, at least over portions thereof, have two or more deformation areas arranged next to one another in the longitudinal direction of the automobile.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compressible-fluid device such as a gas spring, including a compression chamber (3) and a piston (4) that is movable in said chamber. It includes a safety member (21) disposed so as to be struck by the piston (4) in the event of the stroke of said piston being greater than a predetermined nominal stroke. The safety member (21) is arranged so as to cause the compression chamber (3) to be drained when said safety member is struck by the piston.

Abstract: An over the highway vehicle having an occupant restraint system is disclosed. An improved harness for retaining an occupant in a bunk is also disclosed. The harness is connected to a bunk by a buckle and hinge arrangement. A frangible connection between an upstanding leaf of the hinge is provided which fails due to forces applied to the harness as a result of a collision. The system includes an occupant restraining strap and a buckle having a component attached to the strap and a mating component attached to the vehicle for releasably connecting the strap to the vehicle at a buckle location. An anchor securer the strap to the vehicle at a location spaced from the buckle location.

Abstract: An energy absorbing impact system is designed for vehicle bumpers and the like, and includes a base member connected with a vehicle frame, and having a central opening therein. An impact receiving member is spaced apart from the base member, and is connected with a vehicle bumper. An invertible, tubular energy absorbing crush member is positioned between the base and impact receiving member, and includes a generally square lateral cross-sectional shape, with flat face portions disposed between opposite corner portions.

Abstract: A shock absorber is disclosed. In the shock absorber, a unit cross member consists of two longitudinal arms. The two arms cross each other and are hinged to each other at the cross, thus being selectively closed by impact. One or more wires are vertically connected to the two crossing arms. Two guide panels are vertically positioned on opposite sides of the cross member and movably engage with associated arm ends of the cross member. In another embodiment, a plurality of cross members are coupled to each other in at least one of X, Y and Z-axes, thus forming a scissor assembly. The above shock absorber effectively absorbs impact or kinetic energy using the rupture stress of wires while changing the direction of impact force into a vertical direction and securing an effective displacement.

Abstract: Described is a break-away bracket (102) comprising a bracket shell (111) having a central channel (132) and sidewalls (120 and 123) having outwardly extending flanges (126 and 129), a clip (150 and 153) extending over at least a portion of each flange (126 and 129), and a plurality of exterior reinforcing plastic ribs (180) attached to the exterior (117) of the bracket shell (111). Each clip/flange assembly of the break-away bracket has at least one shearable pin (177), e.g., a shearable plastic pin, extending therethrough. The exterior ribs (180) are preferably formed by the molding, e.g., injection molding, of plastic material onto the exterior surfaces (117) of the bracket shell (111). The exterior ribs (180) are preferably attached to the bracket shell (111) by means of molded on plastic extending through and embedding the edges of perforations in the bracket shell.

Abstract: A simple, low cost energy absorbing shear strip bender that provides constant load, tailored load, or adjustable load/displacement profiles for use in any application where a single use energy absorber is required. Examples include, but are not limited to: a spinal load attenuator for use in crash-resistant aircraft seats; crash-resistant aircraft landing gear; aircraft or automotive restraint harness attachments; cargo or high-mass item tie-downs; automotive bumper attachments; and collapsible steering columns. The present invention comprises a shear plate or other base material, a shear strip integral to the shear plate, and a shear strip tab, all of which are formed from a single sheet of ductile material. The energy absorber attaches to two objects and begins to displace when opposing forces applied to the shear plate and shear strip tab reach the design limit value such that shear strip shears and plastically deforms, i.e., bends.

Abstract: Impact absorber (1) of the type comprising two aligned parts of tubular overall shape and different cross sections, a plunger tube (3) and an absorber tube (4) joined together by a joining zone (2) where, in any plane of section passing through the axis of the tube formed by these two aligned parts, the following relationships are simultaneously satisfied: Ep>Ea; Rp<Rr.p; Ra>Rr.a; ½(Da−Dp)>2×Rr.a; Ra>Rp, and a method for manufacturing this absorber by hydroforming.

Abstract: A front pillar garnish adapted to cover a front pillar disposed between a front windshield and a side door in an automotive vehicle. The front pillar garnish comprises a main body section formed of plastic and generally channel-shaped. The main body section is to be fixedly connected to the front pillar and located at the side of a passenger compartment. A plurality of generally plate-shaped energy absorbing ribs are integrally formed at the inner surface of the main body section in a manner to be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body section. A plurality of bosses are integrally formed extending from the inner surface of the main body section. A clip supporting plate or member is fixedly secured to the tip end sections of the bosses and fixedly supported on the edges of the energy absorbing ribs.

Abstract: A channeled energy absorption unit for a vehicle bumper impact system to absorb impact energy and forestall or minimize damage to vehicle frame rails under impact. The basic embodiment is a tube with one end flared and welded at a hole in one end plate or directly to the vehicle frame rail. When loaded axially, the tube splits, peels and is inverted to absorb impact in a generally square wave energy absorption. Preferred channels in the tube stabilize the failure mode during this process to assure a predetermined energy absorption characteristic.

Abstract: An energy absorbing article having a direction in which impact resistance is desired is formed of extruded thermoplastic foam exhibit anisotropic compressive strength. The extrusion direction of the thermoplastic foam is aligned substantially parallel with the direction in which impact resistance is desired to provide an energy absorbing article exhibiting a high ratio of compressive strength to weight.

Abstract: The present invention is a dissipating protection energy system designed to receive and safely dissipate the kinetic energy from high energy fragments. The energy dissipation system dissipates energy transferred to it by the incremental and progressive rupturing at an approximately constant force of strategically placed sacrificial stitching applied to a number of high strength straps, such as an aromatic polymide fiber of extremely high tensile strength. Thus, the energy dissipation system provides a lightweight device for controlling and dissipating the dangerous and destructive energy stored in high strength fragments released by catastrophic failures of machinery minimizing damage to other critical components.

Abstract: A method is provided for optimizing energy dissipation in a vehicle steering column in a high energy impact. The method includes the steps of: (a) providing a variable energy dissipation system on the vehicle steering column; (b) sensing at least one occupant condition; and (c) adjusting the variable energy dissipation system based upon the sensed occupant condition to optimize energy dissipation.

Abstract: A push rod of a vacuum booster includes an inner rod section, a pipe-shaped outer rod section which is slidably fitted over an outer periphery of a rear portion of the inner rod section and connected to a brake pedal, and a buffer member made of a synthetic resin and fitted over the outer periphery of the inner rod section in front of the outer rod section. Usually, an end face of the outer rod section is retained in a position in which it abuts against a projection of the inner rod section. When an axial compressing force is applied to the push rod upon a collision of an automobile, the end face of the outer rod section slides forwards over and past the projection, while buckling the buffer member. Thus, the pushing-up of the brake pedal toward a vehicle compartment due to the retreating movement of a master cylinder is prevented, and the load applied to a driver's foot is alleviated.

Abstract: A gas spring device is provided with a safe and effective way to reduce to zero the velocity of a piston rod which is traveling at a high velocity in the gas spring device during a failure of the gas spring device. This achieved by stopping the piston rod in a controlled manner through a stepwise reduction in its energy and velocity to keep the force on the piston to a minimum at all times during the failure. The reduction in energy is caused by a plurality of frangible components associated with the gas spring device which are designed to break during a failure, thereby dissipating the kinetic energy of the piston rod.

Abstract: A resin impact absorber comprising a hollow columnar body having a honeycomb section or a hollow columnar body having a cylindrical shape, the hollow columnar body being made of a resin with a flexural modulus of 500 to 5000 kgf/cm.sup.2, wherein a reaction-compressibility curve at the time of compression in the lengthwise direction of the columnar body satisfies the following conditions: (a) yield strength.gtoreq.100 Tf/m.sup.2 and (b) compression energy absorption.gtoreq.50 Tf.m/m.sup.3. The resin impact absorber of the present invention is small in size and light in weight and exhibits a high impact energy absorption capacity. A site or structure with an impact absorber of the present invention disposed therein can be prevented from remarkable damage or breakage when it receives a high impact force.

Abstract: An energy-absorbing device, particularly for rolling stock to provide protection therefor when potentially damaging impact occurs, includes first and second tubular elements which are fitted into one another and which are of unlike material.

Abstract: A connection between a collapsible mast jacket of an energy absorbing steering column and a body of a motor vehicle including a mounting bracket on the mast jacket having a planar flange parallel to a longitudinal centerline of the steering column, a V-shaped slot in the planar flange, and a V-shaped capsule in the V-shaped slot clamped rigidly to the body of the motor vehicle. A pair of channels in converging sides of the V-shaped capsule receive corresponding edges of the V-shaped slot for vertical support of the mast jacket on the vehicle body. The V-shaped capsule is retained on the mounting bracket by a pair of integral lugs on opposite sides of the V-shaped capsule seated in retaining notches in the edges of the V-shaped slot. Impact forces on the steering column fracture the integral lugs to release the mast jacket for energy absorbing collapse.

Abstract: The present invention to provides a rapidly deployable system and method for arresting the movement of a vehicle with minimal injury to the vehicle or its occupants. The invention provides a system which applies a braking force which varies according to vehicle weight and speed by utilizing a series of frangible rods for dissipating the energy.

Abstract: In a shift lever assembly for a vehicle comprising a base member and a shift lever pivotably supported by the base member, the shift lever is detachable from the base member when an excessive force greater than a prescribed value is applied to the shift lever. Typically, the base member comprises a retaining member for holding the shift lever in an operable position and the retaining member is given a strength so as to break when an excessive force greater than a prescribed value is applied to the retaining member to thereby release the shift lever. In this way, when an excessive force greater than a prescribed value is applied to the shift lever for example by being hit against by a driver or a passenger in a traffic accident, the shift lever is detached from the base and retracted into the instrument panel, thereby effectively preventing the shift lever from causing damage to the driver or passenger.

Abstract: A steering column in an automotive vehicle is supported by a stationary wall that carries two capsules on either side of the steering column. The steering column has an attachment wall that extends within the capsules. Each capsule has two support walls sandwiched around the attachment wall and a tubular connector joining the support walls together. Severable ribs are integral with the tubular connector and in contact with edge areas of the attachment wall, such that in a crash situation the steering column can collapse forwardly to minimize chest injury to the driver of the vehicle.