Crushable Element Patents (Class 188/377)
-
Publication number: 20080000740Abstract: A damper structure with a silicone layer is provided herein, wherein the silicone layer is formed on a surface of the damper so as to be able to enhance the anti-shock performance of the damper due to the properties of silicone. A method of manufacturing a damper structure is also provided herein, which includes the steps of diluting an organic silicone varnish (TSR1122) with a diluent (xylene or toluene); catalyzing the organic silicone varnish with a catalyst (YC8108 or YC8112) to prepare a silicone material; coating the silicone material on a surface of a molded damper; and heat-curing the silicone material on the damper to form a silicone layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2006Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventor: Hiroshi Ohara
-
Patent number: 7306080Abstract: A system is provided for absorbing energy from impacts to a vehicle, the system comprising: a blow molded energy absorbing member. The member including first and second opposing walls, at least one rib or a pair of ribs disposed between said first and second opposing walls, the rib(s) comprising the first and second opposing walls dented toward other wall with top end part either welded or separated with specified interval. In one embodiment, the energy absorbing member is formed of thermoplastics composed of a polyolefin based resin and 50 to 75% weight of an amorphous resin.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2005Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Kyoraku Co., Ltd.Inventors: Teruo Tamada, Hiroo Inui, Kiyotaka Urakawa, Kenji Ishii, Tadatoshi Tanji
-
Patent number: 7306081Abstract: A system is disclosed for the absorption of an impact, that system comprises a blow molded thermoplastic energy absorbing member. The blow molded thermoplastic energy absorbing member provides opposing first and second walls defining a hollow space; according to one embodiment, a plurality of fused and unfused recessed ribs integrally molded between the first and second walls. The fused recessed ribs have a fused recessed rib end. The fused recessed rib ends are integrally fused to either opposite recessed rib ends or the facing opposite wall at a welded surface such that the height of the recessed ribs from the first wall to the welded surface is about approximately 15.0 to 45.0 mm. The recessed ribs are, according to one embodiment, connected by a plurality of straight interlocking ribs.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: Kyoraku Co., Ltd.Inventors: Teruo Tamada, Hiroo Inui, Kiyotaka Urakawa, Kenji Ishii, Tadatoshi Tanji
-
Publication number: 20070261592Abstract: Provided is a collision energy absorbing apparatus capable of mitigating loads to the car body proper, passengers and the like by adding a structure combining a prescribed static strength and collision energy absorption performance to an energy absorbing body of the collision energy absorbing apparatus. In a limited inner space of a car body, a cover 80 that covers energy absorbing bodies 51, 52 combines a prescribed static strength and collision energy absorption performance. The cover 80 prevents irregularities, such as the breakage of cylindrical bodies of aluminum alloy, i.e., the energy absorbing bodies 51, 52 in each of the stages of transportation, storage, assembling and the like of the collision energy absorbing apparatus 50.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2007Publication date: November 15, 2007Inventors: Toshihiko Mochida, Takashi Yamaguchi, Hideyuki Nakamura
-
Patent number: 7261490Abstract: Aircraft arresting beds constructed of cellular concrete at ends of runways may be subject to damaging effects of jet blast phenomena. Arresting units resistant to such effects and related methods are described. A block of compressible material, such as cellular concrete, provides compressive failure characteristics suitable for arresting travel of an aircraft overrunning a runway. Relatively thin frangible material positioned above the block provides a stronger, more damage resistant surface, while still readily fracturing in an arresting incident. Intermediate material, such as a foam layer, positioned under the frangible material may be included to provide a protective cushioning effect by mitigating transmission of external phenomena forces to the block. A fastening configuration at least partially enclosing other portions of the arresting unit provides a stable unified composite, without destroying desired compressive failure characteristics of the unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2005Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Engineered Arresting Systems CorporationInventors: Glenn Allen, Richard D. Angley, John L. Gordon, Peter T. Mahal, Silvia C. Valentini
-
Patent number: 7249662Abstract: A shock absorbing structure for a motor vehicle including at least one main body which includes a top wall and two leg walls, wherein the distance between the leg walls in a direction in which they are opposed to each other gradually increases with an increase in a distance in a direction which is away from the top wall toward the distal portions, with an obtuse interior angle being formed at each of corners which are formed by the top wall and the respective two leg walls, the top wall and the leg walls are integrally formed of a synthetic resin material whose tensile elongation according to ASTM D638 is not less than 150%, an inner surface of each corner being provided by a concave curved surface having a radius of curvature of not less than 2.0 mm.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: Kojima Press Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kaoru Itou
-
Patent number: 7243964Abstract: A truck mounted attenuator (TMA) is constructed to minimize length during use in a horizontal position and height in a vertical transport position, as well as to minimize wind resistance and buffeting at highway speeds. A modular construction is employed, so that only damaged portions of the TMA can be removed and replaced in the field after a vehicle impact. The TMA comprises a plurality of outwardly curved tubular structural members which are designed to buckle upon application to the TMA of forces resulting from vehicular impact. The rigid tubes buckle at a high initial force, then proceed to crush at a lower force once the sides have buckled outwardly sufficiently to protect vehicle occupants during the critical first two feet of travel after impact. This design also provides increased protection for errant vehicles which impact the TMA device from an angle (i.e. “coffin corner” impact).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2006Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Traffix Devices, IncInventor: David C. Gertz
-
Patent number: 7232002Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the rigidity of vehicle body according to the present invention comprises a controller for controlling a buckling form, which controls the buckling form by adding to a member to be inputted to a collision load a lateral force in the direction substantially perpendicular to the member.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignees: University of Washington, Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Minoru Taya, Taishi Wada, Shunji Suzuki, Yuta Urushiyama
-
Patent number: 7226120Abstract: A skeleton member structure having a tubular structural member (11, 211) filled with granular materials for absorbing impact energy. The granular materials includes a granular material having a hollow portion (12a, 212a) or a porous granular material. When the skeleton member receives an impact, the granular materials are deformed or collapsed, and impact energy is stably absorbed. Since the granular materials are hollow or porous, the weight of the skeleton member filled with the granular materials is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2003Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shouji Yamazaki
-
Patent number: 7213867Abstract: A shock absorbing device for a vehicle, absorbing an axial compression load by means of plastic deformation in order to absorb an impact energy, is hollowed and has an octagonal cross section.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin Keikinzoku Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shinichi Haneda, Kiyoichi Kita, Masashi Neo
-
Patent number: 7204515Abstract: An occupant restraint mechanism is disposed between a rigid member and an instrument panel of an automotive vehicle. The occupant restraint mechanism includes first and second brackets each extending between proximal ends fixedly secured to the rigid member and distal ends coupled to the instrument panel. One of the first and second brackets has at least one notch formed therein. The notch has a predetermined size to allow a predetermined amount of deformation of the first and second brackets during contact of an occupant with the instrument panel during a sudden deceleration of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Toyota Technical Center USA, Inc.Inventors: Ben Penner, Takao Sato, Jesse Buehler
-
Patent number: 7201414Abstract: A shock absorbing structure for a vehicle comprises a bumper reinforcement extending in a vehicle width direction, a pair of side members extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, a pair of crash boxes provided between the pair of side members and the bumper reinforcement, and the crash box including a crash box body being hollowed in a vertical direction so as to have a first opening, a second opening and side walls, wherein the bumper reinforcement is attached to one end of the crash box body, and a side member attachment flange is integrally formed at the other end of the crash box body, and a load adjusting plate fixed to the crash box body so as to cover at least one of the first opening and the second opening of the crash box body and to sandwich the side walls of the crash box body.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin Keikinzoku Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masakazu Iketo, Kazunari Azuchi, Tadashi Sugimoto
-
Patent number: 7201413Abstract: A crash box for installation between a longitudinal member and a bumper cross member of a motor vehicle, includes a sheet metal body having a deformation member which extends anteriorly of an end surface of the longitudinal member and whose maximum crumpling capability defines the energy absorption of the crash box. In prolongation of the deformation member is an attachment member which is engaged in the longitudinal member and detachably secured by bolts therein. Formed in a transition zone between the deformation member and the attachment member, is a stop which is configured in the form of an outwardly directed material protuberance or outwardly directed thickened area of the sheet metal body and bearing against the end surface of the longitudinal member.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbHInventors: Bernhard Hillekes, Achim Kröning, Hui Wang, Michael Roll, Dirk Kroeger
-
Patent number: 7147088Abstract: A single-sided crash attenuation cushion system having an impact head and three stage energy absorption mechanism. The energy absorbing mechanism has a mandrel for deforming thin-walled tubes in a controlled collapse to absorb impact forces from a colliding vehicle. The third stage of the absorption mechanism includes an additional deformable compressible tube between the fixed-object hazard and the thin walled tubes.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Inventors: John D. Reid, John R. Rohde, Dean L. Sicking
-
Patent number: 7100752Abstract: A crash cushion system to envelop at least one bridge pier. The system has two impact heads, one facing one traffic flow direction and the other facing an opposite traffic flow direction. The heads are connected to multi-stage box beam energy absorbers which are in turn connected to a tubular frame structure which envelops the bridge piers. The frame is spaced apart from the face of the pier sufficiently to avoid an impacting vehicle's snagging the frame and contacting the pier structure. Anchorage cables to stiffen and support the sides of the envelope are positioned inside the frame's parallelogram shape.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Safety By Design Co.Inventors: John D. Reid, John R. Rohde, Dean L. Sicking, King K. Mak
-
Patent number: 7086686Abstract: A side impact beam for incorporation into the structure of a motor vehicle comprises a sheet metal profile with flaring end portions and two longitudinal beads extending along the sheet metal profile and wherein the end portions that are provided with cross beads that are stamped in an additional tooling step during manufacturing and after the longitudinal beads have been formed, and are arranged in transverse disposition to the longitudinal beads and wherein the longitudinal beads and the cross beads are oriented in the same direction and the length of one cross bead corresponds approximately to the width of the two longitudinal beads, such that the so configured cross beads provide a stabilizing effect of the end portions and ensure the flattening of the connecting surfaces, thereby leading to a reduction of assembly problems.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbHInventors: Detlef Bullmann, Lars Ulrich, Ralf König, Alfons Fortstroer, Ludger Gehringhoff
-
Patent number: 7086508Abstract: An end splice assembly for a box-beam guardrail and terminal system having a first stage rail element and a second stage rail element. The assembly has two major connecting components. Upper and lower bent plate channels and upper and lower channel splice plates. The channels and plates have side walls which extend laterally to one another when the two rail elements are mated. The channels and plates are fastened together to provide moment strength to the splice within the system.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Inventors: John D. Reid, John R. Rohde, Dean L. Sicking, King K. Mak
-
Patent number: 6991282Abstract: An apparatus for controlling rigidity of a vehicle body includes a wall to which a collision load is imposed from its front end side, a base member disposed at a rear end side of the wall, a slide member having opposite top and bottom plates and one vertical plate contiguously extending between edges of the top and bottom plates, and actuators for establishing and releasing connection between the wall and the slide member. The top plate is disposed over a top end (upper end portion) of the wall, the bottom plate is disposed underneath a bottom end (lower end portion) of the wall, and the vertical plate is disposed at the front end of the wall. The slide member is slidable with respect to the base member in a collision. The actuators serve to establish the connection between the top end and the top plate and between the bottom end and the bottom plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shunji Suzuki, Yuta Urushiyama
-
Patent number: 6979052Abstract: An energy-absorbing bracket is disclosed for use in a vehicle to absorb the impact of a vehicle occupant with an interior surface of the vehicle such as a vehicular pillar, an interior trim panel, and other potential areas of contact. The brackets of the invention generally include an anchor plate configured to allow attachment of the bracket to a surface, an extension arm extending from the anchor plate; and a support foot linked to the extension arm. The energy-absorbing brackets of the invention are generally incompletely tubular in nature, and configured to deform when impacted to dissipate impact energy and assume a configuration adapted to absorb additional impact energy.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2003Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Travis Hess, Kurt Kottke, Corey Farnsworth, Thomas C. Burton, Jesse Crookston
-
Patent number: 6971817Abstract: Aircraft arresting beds constructed of cellular concrete at ends of runways may be subject to damaging effects of jet blast phenomena. Arresting units resistant to such effects are described. A block of compressible material, such as cellular concrete, provides compressive failure characteristics suitable for arresting travel of an aircraft overrunning a runway. Relatively thin frangible material positioned above the block provides a stronger, more damage resistant surface, while still readily fracturing in an arresting incident. Intermediate material, such as a foam layer, positioned under the frangible material may be included to provide a protective cushioning effect by mitigating transmission of external phenomena forces to the block. A fastening configuration at least partially enclosing other portions of the arresting unit provides a stable unified composite, without destroying desired compressive failure characteristics of the unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2004Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: Engineered Arresting Systems CorporationInventors: Glenn Allen, Richard D. Angley, John L. Gordon, Peter T. Mahal, Silvia C. Valentini
-
Patent number: 6962367Abstract: A method and apparatus for a vehicle wherein a load absorption for an impact of the knees relative to the steering column is provided arranged in case of an accident to be adjusted toward the driver's knees.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2004Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Thyssenkrupp Presta AGInventor: Olaf Müller
-
Patent number: 6962245Abstract: Tunable pull-through energy attenuator and decelerator devices is disclosed which provide for variable force-time profiles, deceleration and kinetic energy attenuation of moving objects so as to prevent damage or injury to impacting objects, vehicles or persons. The device employs either consumable inelastic or reusable, viscoelastic deforming elements, such as tubes, rods, plates or strips, which absorb substantial amounts of energy through repeated inelastic or viscoelastic deformation when the deforming element is pulled-through a tunable array of rigid pins having a variety of configurations and settings. The disclosed devices provide for variable force-time profiles which control the cumulative deformation and thereby the amount of energy absorbed and rate of deceleration of impacting objects.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2003Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Worcester Polytechnic InstituteInventors: Malcolm H. Ray, Chuck A. Plaxico
-
Patent number: 6959894Abstract: An impact resistant structure of a helicopter having an energy absorber positioned under a floor of the helicopter and directly connected to a cabin frame of the helicopter. The energy absorber is arranged in accordance with a distribution of a ground reaction force on a general ground at a time of crash situation. The energy absorber also includes a plurality of independent hollow tubes of fiber reinforced composite material integrally formed by bundling only the hollow tubes. The hollow tubes are arranged so as to reduce a number of intersecting wall surfaces of the hollow tubes.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2003Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Tohru Hayashi
-
Patent number: 6942263Abstract: A truck mounted attenuator includes an interface structure comprising a pivot mount at a first location and a bearing surface at a second location vertically spaced from the first location. The pivot mount is adapted to be pivotally mounted to a pivotable truck component and the bearing surface is adapted to slidably engage an understructure of the truck. A backup structure is pivotally mounted to the interface structure at a third location and is engaged with the interface structure at a fourth location spaced from the third location. A crash cushion is supported at least in part by said backup structure. This crash cushion can be implemented as described in detail below to provide carefully tailored decelerating loads on the impacting vehicle. In other aspects, a truck outfitted with an impact attenuator and a method for mounting a truck mounted attenuator on a truck are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.Inventors: James B. Welch, Doug E. Wilkinson
-
Patent number: 6932201Abstract: To prevent a shock absorbing material mounted on a vehicle body from collapsing or being scattered under the shock at the time of a collision. The four sides of a shock absorbing material formed of a foamed material are surrounded by a bellows form cover consisting of four corrugated plates inclusive of corrugated plates. Under an external force due to collision, the bellows is folded and contracted easily, but is difficult to be deformed in the width directions. Therefore, the shock absorbing material receives the energy upon collision in its initial shape, so that the energy is absorbed substantially by the compression of the shock absorbing material. Accordingly, it suffices to design a set load for the shock absorbing material by taking into account only the shock absorbing material, so that it is easy to design the shape, material and the like of the shock absorbing material.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hideki Akiyama, Norihiro Kurata
-
Patent number: 6926324Abstract: A truck mounted attenuator (TMA) is constructed to minimize length during use in a horizontal position and height in a vertical transport position, as well as to minimize wind resistance and buffeting at highway speeds. A modular construction is employed, so that only damaged portions of the TMA can be removed and replaced in the field after a vehicle impact. The TMA comprises a plurality of outwardly curved tubular structural members which are designed to buckle upon application to the TMA of forces resulting from vehicular impact. The rigid tubes buckle at a high initial force, then proceed to crush at a lower force once the sides have buckled outwardly sufficiently to protect vehicle occupants during the critical first two feet of travel after impact. This design also provides increased protection for errant vehicles which impact the TMA device from an angle (i.e. “coffin corner” impact).Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.Inventor: David C. Gertz
-
Patent number: 6893011Abstract: An upper strut assembly comprising a strut rod, a jounce bumper, a jounce bumper cup, and an upper strut mount attached to the strut rod by a fastener is disclosed. The strut rod extends about a vertical axis. The jounce bumper axially encompasses the strut rod. The jounce bumper cup includes an upper surface that is fixed about a top portion of the jounce bumper. The upper strut mount limits an anticipated peak force applied to the upper strut assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Joseph A. Schudt, John E. Howard, Fan Li
-
Patent number: 6890009Abstract: An elongated bumper core of a polyolefin-based resin-containing foam having a density of 0.045-0.2 g/cm3 and showing a compressive load of F20 at 20% strain, a compressive load of F40 at 40% strain and a compressive load of F60 at 60% strain when compressed by a rigid pipe having an outer diameter of 70 mm at a compression speed of 500 mm/minute, wherein the ratio F20/F40 is in the range of 0.6-1.3 and the ratio F60/F40 is in the range of 0.75-1.3.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2003Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: JSP CorporationInventors: Seishiro Murata, Satoru Shioya, Masayuki Fukuda
-
Patent number: 6883833Abstract: A knee protector is arranged in front of a seat in a vehicle, and includes a load receiving part that is comprised of an upper portion positioned or shaped suitably for a person who is relatively large in stature and a lower portion positioned or shaped suitably for a person who is relatively small in stature. Therefore, the load receiving part of the knee protector is positioned substantially in front of the knees of drivers of various statures. The knee protector can absorb the impact applied by the knees of drivers of varying statures without requiring an increase in weight or cost.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasunobu Yamazaki, Yuichi Inuzuka, Shigeyuki Suzuki
-
Patent number: 6871888Abstract: To provide a shock absorber that can effectively absorb a large amount of energy generated in case of a collision. A lattice body of synthetic resin is formed by reducing the thickness of a plurality of plate ribs gradually from the proximal ends to the distal ends and disposing the plate ribs intersecting with each other. The lattice bodies are arranged in a stack such that the direction of the plate ribs extending from the proximal ends toward the distal ends is oriented in an impact direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Toshio Yamagiwa
-
Patent number: 6840542Abstract: Disclosed are a side member of a vehicle frame and a method of manufacturing the same. One end of the side member is connected to a bumper. The side member comprises a steel tube, and a hybrid tube disposed between the steel tube and the bumper and connected to the steel bumper. The hybrid tube has a dual structure including an aluminum tube and a hybrid tube made of a glass fiber reinforced composite material and formed on an outer circumstance of the aluminum tube. The method comprises the steps of preparing a hybrid tube having a dual structure including an interior aluminum tube and an exterior hybrid tube made of a glass fiber reinforced composite material; and connecting the hybrid tube to a steel tube.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Koo-Hyun Kim
-
Patent number: 6837518Abstract: An energy absorbing knee bolster for use in an interior of a vehicle is disclosed. The knee bolster is configured to absorb energy from the vehicle's occupants during a crash. The knee bolster is formed of a collapsible cylinder which is welded to an impact plate on its first end and to a vehicle's cross-car beam at its second end. A coupling flange is disposed between the impact plate and a medial portion of the collapsible cylinder. The collapsible cylinder is configured to axially collapse at a predetermined force when impacted by a moving occupant.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Assignee: L&W Engineering IncorporatedInventor: Brian J. Mullan
-
Publication number: 20040262109Abstract: A fall safety device is provided having a load-bearing rotor 2, which supports at least one locking member 6, which can be moved by centrifugal force and which is moved into engagement with at least one stop 7b of a stator 4 if a certain rotor speed is exceeded and blocks the further rotation of the rotor 2. The locking member 6 and/or the stop 7b is in active connection with a braking body 8, which undergoes a plastic deformation when engaging the fall safety device and damps the stopping process.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Applicant: Ringspann GmbHInventor: Karlheinz Timtner
-
Patent number: 6832669Abstract: The deformation element (1) of a rail-borne vehicle is disposed in the region of at least one deformation zone (3) located on the end side of the vehicle, wherein the deformation element (1) is formed as a tubular hollow box (6) with at least one sidewall (9) of the deformation element (1) being formed with a polygonal cross-section comprises an inwardly directed indentation (4), wherein the indentation (4) is provided on the longitudinal-side end region of the deformation element (1) remote from the rail-borne vehicle underframe (2).Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2002Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Assignee: Siemens SGP Verkehstechnik GmbHInventors: Michael Schobergegger, Georg Schmeja
-
Patent number: 6820924Abstract: A crush rail or other structural member of a vehicle is provided with crush triggers. The crush triggers are formed by heating localized areas of the crush rail or other part and allowing them to cool slowly to provide increased ductility and reduced strength in a localized region. The crush rail is designed to collapse in a series of convolutions in a regular and repeated pattern. Crush triggers may be provided on body pillars, steering columns, drive shafts, engine support cradles, and other parts of a vehicle. A plurality of crush triggers may be provided on a single structural member depending upon impact absorption requirements.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Ari Garo Caliskan, Paul George Sanders, Armando Mateo Joaquin, Matthew John Zaluzec
-
Patent number: 6817628Abstract: This type of rollover protection system typically comprises a roll bar body that is either firmly anchored to the vehicle, or is displaceably guided in a guide element that is fixed to the vehicle, in conjunction with a locking device that serves as a retraction blocking mechanism to lock the deployed roll bar body against any unintended retraction. To structurally control high peak loads that occur in a rollover without a total failure of the protective system, particularly of the locking device in deployable systems, the invention provides that the roll bar body, possibly the associated guide element and its fixation on the vehicle as well as the retraction blocking mechanism be configured as a rigid system relative to the maximum load that occurs in a rollover. A cross-member-type support element terminating the roll bar body on the end face is configured as a predetermined deformation point for a limited defined deformation path in load direction for energy degradation.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: ISE Innomotive SystemsInventors: Klaus Hövelmann, Michael Nass, Manuela Zupancic, Reinhard Nowack, Hans-Gerd Menne
-
Patent number: 6799400Abstract: An earthquake shock damper includes two positioning plates, two fixing plates and multiple energy absorbing plates securely sandwiched between the two positioning plates and having the two fixing plates extending out in different directions. Each energy absorbing plate has a mediate portion with a width smaller than that of two distal ends of the energy absorbing plate so that deformation of the energy absorbing plate is able to smoothly absorb energy from the earthquake.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2003Date of Patent: October 5, 2004Inventor: Kuo-Jung Chuang
-
Patent number: 6783156Abstract: A passenger restraint includes a knee bolster having receptacles for receiving knee blockers. The knee blockers are multi-celled elements that absorb kinetic energy attributed to collisions of a motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Arun A. Chickmenahalli, Todd L. Depue
-
Patent number: 6776370Abstract: An energy-absorbing connecting strut comprises a substantially straight rigid body with means of connection to two components which it links, and undergoing tensile/compressive stresses. The body comprising a buckling portion with a calibrated buckling load corresponding to a compressive load threshold, a hollowed portion housing a component absorbing energy by plastic deformation in compression, and a piston moving integrally with a rigid axial end part of the body. The body is configured so that under a compressive load greater than the compressive load threshold, the buckling portion deforms causing axial shortening of the connecting strut and movement of the piston with the rigid part, so that the piston crushes and plastically deforms the energy-absorbing component, limiting the load amplitude. The energy-absorbing strut may be used as a suspension strut of a main gearbox on the structure of a rotary wing aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2002Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignee: EurocopterInventors: Alain Struzik, Vincent Scala, Michel Salvy
-
Publication number: 20040140658Abstract: A deployable cellular structure providing impact energy absorption capability is disclosed. The structure may be packed when not in use and deployed automatically or manually to provide impact protection. The structure is useful in a variety of situations including vehicular protection of occupants, deployable highway safety barriers, and aviation emergency safety devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2004Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventor: Sotirios Kellas
-
Publication number: 20040140169Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an impact energy absorber which is easy to manufacture and low in cost and absorbs high impact energy. The impact energy absorber consists of an aggregate formed by lapping a kraft paper on the outside and inside of a metal sheet such as a hard aluminum foil, and is a flexible pipe having a circular cross-sectional shape and formed with concave and convex portions in a spiral form on the surface thereof. The outside diameter of the impact energy absorber is 20 to 50 mm, the pitch of the concave and convex portions is 1.4 to 2.0 mm, and the vertical width of the concave and convex portions is 2.3 to 3.2 mm. Energy is absorbed by plastic deformation in the radial direction of the energy absorber.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2004Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventor: Akio Shimoda
-
Publication number: 20040129518Abstract: A system is provided for absorbing energy from impacts to a vehicle, the system comprising: a blow molded energy absorbing member. The member including first and second opposing walls, at least one rib or a pair of ribs disposed between said first and second opposing walls, the rib(s) comprising the first and second opposing walls dented toward other wall with top end part either welded or separated with specified interval. In one embodiment, the energy absorbing member is formed of thermoplastics composed of a polyolefin based resin and 35 to 75 weight % of an amorphous resin.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Inventors: Teruo Tamada, Hiroo Inui, Kiyotaka Urakawa, Kenji Ishii, Tadatoshi Tanji
-
Patent number: 6755453Abstract: A deployable cellular structure providing impact energy absorption capability is disclosed. The structure may be packed when not in use and deployed automatically or manually to provide impact protection. The structure is useful in a variety of situations including vehicular protection of occupants, deployable highway safety barriers, and aviation emergency safety devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Veridian Systems Division, Inc.Inventor: Sotirios Kellas
-
Patent number: 6729451Abstract: A shock absorber for a two-wheeled vehicle that can absorb large energy generated in case of a collision effectively is easily mounted on the two-wheeled vehicle. A tabular top board and a lattice body are provided including a plurality of plate ribs being reduced in thickness from the proximal ends toward the distal ends and molded integrally with the top board so as to project upwardly thereon and intersectionally with respect to each other. Shock absorbing members of synthetic resin include projecting rib portions that are formed at outermost lattice openings So of the lattice body by extending some of the plate ribs that are disposed intersectionally with respect to each other outwardly and having the top board overhanging outwardly of the outermost lattice openings of the lattice body are disposed in such a manner that the direction of the plate ribs extending from the proximal ends toward the distal ends is oriented along the fore-and-aft direction of the two-wheeled vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Toshio Yamagiwa
-
Patent number: 6715592Abstract: A shock absorbing structure for a vehicle, including (a) a plurality of main bodies each made of a resin and including a lateral wall that extends substantially in a shock-receiving direction in which a shock is to be primarily applied to the shock absorbing structure, and (b) at least one connecting body each made of a resin and connecting adjacent ones of the main bodies. Each of the at least one connecting body includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion has a shape configured to be deformable more easily in a perpendicular direction that is perpendicular to the shock-receiving direction, than in a parallel direction that is parallel to the shock-receiving direction. The second connecting portion has a shape configured to be deformable more easily in the parallel direction than in the perpendicular direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2001Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignees: Kojima Press Industry Co., Ltd., Wakamiya Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takane Suzuki, Akihiro Konda, Kaoru Itou, Kazuyuki Fukushima
-
Patent number: 6715593Abstract: A crush tube assembly for absorbing impact energy is provided. A first tube substantially free from convolutions is disposed about a second tube substantially free from convolutions. A third tube having convolutions is also disposed within the first tube, and may be interposed between the first and second tubes. The convolutions support the axial integrity, and minimize lateral bucking of the first and second tubes during the absorption of impact energy. Additional alternating layers of smooth and convoluted tubes may be alternatively disposed within the assembly to provide further strength and control for absorbing energy. A method for absorbing impact energy is also provided. The method includes the steps of providing a first tube substantially free from convolutions, disposing within said first tube a second tube substantially free from convolutions, interposing between said first and second tubes a third tube having convolutions; and impacting said first, second, and third tubes.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Chi-Chin Wu, Joseph Daniel Sellepack
-
Publication number: 20040060790Abstract: A crush tube assembly for absorbing impact energy is provided. A first tube substantially free from convolutions is disposed about a second tube substantially free from convolutions. A third tube having convolutions is also disposed within the first tube, and may be interposed between the first and second tubes. The convolutions support the axial integrity, and minimize lateral bucking of the first and second tubes during the absorption of impact energy. Additional alternating layers of smooth and convoluted tubes may be alternatively disposed within the assembly to provide further strength and control for absorbing energy. A method for absorbing impact energy is also provided. The method includes the steps of providing a first tube substantially free from convolutions, disposing within said first tube a second tube substantially free from convolutions, interposing between said first and second tubes a third tube having convolutions; and impacting said first, second, and third tubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2002Publication date: April 1, 2004Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Chi-Chin Wu, Joseph Daniel Sellepack
-
Publication number: 20040060791Abstract: To prevent a shock absorbing material mounted on a vehicle body from collapsing or being scattered under the shock at the time of a collision. The four sides of a shock absorbing material formed of a foamed material are surrounded by a bellows form cover consisting of four corrugated plates inclusive of corrugated plates. Under an external force due to collision, the bellows is folded and contracted easily, but is difficult to be deformed in the width directions. Therefore, the shock absorbing material receives the energy upon collision in its initial shape, so that the energy is absorbed substantially by the compression of the shock absorbing material. Accordingly, it suffices to design a set load for the shock absorbing material by taking into account only the shock absorbing material, so that it is easy to design the shape, material and the like of the shock absorbing material.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2003Publication date: April 1, 2004Inventors: Hideki Akiyama, Norihiro Kurata
-
Patent number: 6702345Abstract: A shock absorber for a vehicle making use of plastic deformation. The absorber is mounted between a bumper and the frame of the vehicle to transform impact energy applied to the bumper into deformation energy. The absorber comprises a straight tube that can be plastically deformed. A straight tube is partially enlarged or partially reduced to form different diameter tube portions. These tube portions are connected by step formed between the edge of each one. Thus, a multi-diameter stepped tube is formed. The tubes located at the both ends of this multi-diameter stepped tube are connected to the bumper and the frame of the vehicle respectively.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: OM CorporationInventor: Hiroshi Yoshida
-
Patent number: 6688237Abstract: The deformation element (1) of a rail-borne vehicle is disposed in the region of at least one deformation zone located on the end side of the vehicle and comprises at least one tubular hollow space, wherein a structure is attached in a replaceable manner in the rail-borne vehicle and is formed of two metal sheets (2a, 2b), of which at least one is designed as a profiled metal sheet (2a′, 2b′) and which are connected together on mutually facing cross-pieces (3a, 3b) which lie against each other thus forming hollow boxes (4a, 4b) extending in parallel with respect to each other.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: Siemens SGP Verkehrstechnik GmbHInventors: Gunter Bäck, Werner Gödl, Johann P. Schmid, Ewald Brückler, Christian Fellner, Roman Brossschädl