Abstract: An energy absorbing mechanism having an elongated member, one end of which is disposed to receive an impact and the opposite end is free for displacement under said impact. The elongated member is provided with two longitudinally spaced transverse pins and a pair of longitudinal slots within which the pin adjacent the outboard end of the elongated member is free to slide; the other transverse pin is fixed to the inboard end of the elongaged member. An oriented elastomer, preferably a copolyetherester in the form of a belt, operably connects the pins so as to constitute an energy absorber upon displacement of the elongated member responsive to impact. The mechanism can be mounted on an automobile frame and the outboard end provided with a bumper.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing unit comprising a post with upper and lower generally coparallel passages therethrough, e.g., bores, for the reception of individual push rods, the inboard ends of the push rods supporting a rail, an oriented elastomer, e.g., a copolyetherester, connecting the outboard end of the push rods and the post, and means for pretensioning the elastomer, e.g., a wedge, a predetermined amount.