Abstract: A bursting energy absorber system having an impact head, and energy absorption mechanism. The energy absorbing mechanism has a generally rectangular mandrel for rupturing cooperating thin-walled generally rectangular tubes in a controlled rupture to absorb impact forces for a colliding vehicle. A frame may be used to mount the system to a truck, trailer, guardrail, median barrier end treatment, or a crash cushion. Stress concentrators such as saw cuts or scoring may be incorporated into the absorption tubes to selectively control rupturing and energy dissipation. The mandrels may be tapered, rectangularly shaped with beveled edges to reduce frictional forces along the interior comers of the tubes. Lubricants may be applied to further control frictional influences.

Abstract: A bursting energy absorber system having an impact head, and energy absorption mechanism. The energy absorbing mechanism has a generally rectangular mandrel for rupturing cooperating thin-wall generally rectangular tubes in a controlled rupture to absorb impact forces for a colliding vehicle. A frame may be used to mount the system to a truck, trailer, guardrail, median barrier end treatment, or a crash cushion. Stress concentrators such as saw cuts or scoring may be incorporated into the absorption tubes to selectively control rupturing and energy dissipation. The mandrels may be tapered, rectangularly shaped with beveled edges to reduce frictional forces along the interior corners of the tubes. Lubricants may be applied to further control frictional influences.

Abstract: A crash attenuation system having an impact head, and energy absorption mechanism. The energy absorbing mechanism has a mandrel for rupturing thin-walled tubes in a controlled rupture to absorb impact forces from a colliding vehicle. A frame may be used to mount the system to a truck, trailer, guardrail, median barrier end treatment, or a crash cushion. Stress concentrators may be incorporated into the tubes and the mandrels to selectively control rupturing and energy dissipation.