Abstract: An energy attenuating apparatus for use with a seat includes an elongated attenuator having a resistance to bending which varies along its length. A bending mechanism defining a nonlinear path receives the attenuator. Translation of the bending mechanism relative to the attenuator in a lengthwise direction of the attenuator produces bending of the attenuator to absorb energy applied to the energy attenuating apparatus.

Abstract: A seat includes a seat back for supporting a back of a seat occupant and a shoulder harness including at least one shoulder strap for restraining a shoulder of a seat occupant. The shoulder strap has a rear portion anchored in a manner enabling it to move in a height direction of a seat occupant. When the seat occupant tightens the shoulder strap, the rear portion can move in response to the tension to a position in which the shoulder strap extends substantially perpendicular to the back tangent line of the seat occupant. In this manner the shoulder strap can be automatically be adjusted in position for a wide range of seat occupants of varying heights.

Abstract: An energy attenuating apparatus for use with a seat includes an elongated attenuator having a resistance to bending which varies along its length. A bending mechanism defining a nonlinear path receives the attenuator. Translation of the bending mechanism relative to the attenuator in a lengthwise direction of the attenuator produces bending of the attenuator to absorb energy applied to the energy attenuating apparatus.

Abstract: A lifting system for removing and installing equipment on aircraft. The lifting system comprises a base and a lifting assembly supported by the base. The lifting system also comprises linear outriggers and at least one offset outrigger. The linear outriggers and the at least one offset outrigger are connectable to the base to provide additional stability for the lifting system during operation. The lifting assembly includes a boom having telescoping sections. The boom may be tilted about a horizontal axis relative to the base and rotated about a vertical axis relative to the base for increased maneuverability around and increased access to the aircraft.