Abstract: An energy absorbing structure includes a base, a loading platform, a pair of side supports, a center support, and a pair of flexible segments. The loading platform is spaced apart from the base. The side supports project from the base toward the loading platform. The center support projects from the loading platform toward the base. The flexible segments extend from the side supports to the center support and connect the side supports to the center support. The flexible segments have straight edges and curved surfaces disposed between the straight edges. The straight edges extend from the side supports to the center support and are oriented at an oblique angle relative to the base. Each of the curved surfaces faces one of the base and the loading platform.

Abstract: A flexible mat system, including a plurality of base platforms, each respective base platform having a first pattern of phase transforming columns and voids extending from a respective flat member, and a plurality of plane-engaging runway platforms, each respective plane-engaging runway platform having a second, reversed pattern of phase transforming columns and voids extending from a respective flat member such that each respective plane-engaging runway platform is lockingly engagable to a respective base platform to yield a landing segment with parallel top and bottom flat members. Each respective base platform is an aluminum/steel composite. Each respective phase transforming column is further comprised of a plurality of stacked operationally connected phase transforming cellular members. Each respective cell further comprises six hexagonally spaced support members defining six hexagonally arrayed sides, with two opposing sides define x-shaped struts extending between adjacent support members.

Abstract: An energy absorbing structure includes a base, a loading platform, a pair of side supports, a center support, and a pair of flexible segments. The loading platform is spaced apart from the base. The side supports project from the base toward the loading platform. The center support projects from the loading platform toward the base. The flexible segments extend from the side supports to the center support and connect the side supports to the center support. The flexible segments have straight edges and curved surfaces disposed between the straight edges. The straight edges extend from the side supports to the center support and are oriented at an oblique angle relative to the base. Each of the curved surfaces faces one of the base and the loading platform.