Abstract: This is a method of absorbing energy that provides a seat system (100) for a vehicle (6) with a first portion (24) and a second portion (26) having a seat (12) for supporting an occupant. A plurality of energy absorbers (28) extends between the first (24) and second (26) portions for absorbing energy on the second portion (26) of the seat system. Any combination of the plurality of energy absorbers (28) provides a discrete energy profile (20). Physical parameters (42) acting on the seat system (100) are detected. The detected physical parameters (42) are used to calculate absorption energy (31). The lowest discrete energy profile (20) is selected that is greater than the calculated absorption energy (31).

Abstract: Designs and methods are provided for a lightweight, penetration resistant door post. In one embodiment the door post comprises an elongated structural frame, and a ballistic composite blanket overlaying the elongated structural frame. The ballistic composite blanket may comprise multiple stacked arrays of unidirectional ballistic fiber bundles. The exemplary door post may further comprise an outer shell overlaying the ballistic composite blanket.