Abstract: A vehicle front structure includes: side frames of a vehicle front part; a bumper reinforcement attached to front ends of the side frames; a load transmission member attached to a side end portion of the bumper reinforcement; and a cover member attached to a rear end of the load transmission member. The cover member is an L-shaped section member in which an outer surface of a corner part of the cover member has a curved surface, the cover member extending in the vehicle up-down direction. The cover member is attached such that an upper end of the cover member projects upward from an upper face of the load transmission member, and the cover member covers an inner portion, in the vehicle width direction, of the rear end of the load transmission member.

Abstract: A damper including a damper tube, a piston assembly, a piston rod attached to the piston assembly, and a monolithic base. The piston assembly is slidingly disposed within the damper tube. The monolithic base includes a closed end, an open end, a base portion at the closed end, and a wall portion. The base portion is joined to and seals one end of the damper tube. The base portion includes a concave depression that tapers inwardly from a base portion perimeter to a cup bottom. The wall portion extends longitudinally from the base portion perimeter to the open end such that the cup bottom is positioned between opposing sides of the wall portion. Integrally formed fastening eyes are provided in the opposing sides of the wall portion.

Abstract: A damping device includes a housing, a piston and a controller. The housing defines a chamber filled with a damping medium. The piston is movable in the chamber and includes a passage for allowing the damping medium to pass through. The controller includes a control member and a resilient member. The control member is capable of being moved toward the passage of the piston or closing a portion or all portions of the passage of the piston in response to a speed of the piston.

Abstract: A bumper reinforcement comprising an elongated, channel-shaped body member with a bottom portion, sidewall portions, and an open side and a closure member closing the open side of the body member so that the bumper reinforcement has a closed cross section. The closure member provides an impact surface that receives an external impact. The closure member comprises lateral edges and a central portion, the closure member being welded to the body member with the lateral edges of the closure member laid on inner surfaces of open side edges of the sidewall portions of the body member.

Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product for moving objects such as a display window about a display frame by combining classical mechanics of motion. A window nudging method commences by receiving a discrete user interface gesture from a human interface device such as a mouse click or a keystroke, and based the discrete user interface gesture, instantaneously accelerating the window object to an initial velocity. Once the window is in motion, then the method applies a first animation to animate the window object using realistic motion changes. Such realistic motion changes comprise a friction model that combines sliding friction with fluid friction to determine frame-by-frame changes in velocity. The friction model that combines sliding friction with fluid friction can be applied to any object in the display frame. Collisions between one object and another object or between one object and its environment are modeled using a critically-damped spring model.

Abstract: An energy absorber includes a base sheet and a plurality of energy absorbing units with domed countermeasures extending from the base sheet. The countermeasures have slits in a domed portion thereof. The side walls of the energy absorbing units protect an adjacent object by cushioning the blow following repeated impacts in both vehicular and non-vehicular (e.g. helmets) environments. Preferably the side walls are oriented to buckle or bend after absorbing energy when impacted. The countermeasures primarily deaden any associated buzzes, squeaks or rattles. The integrally-formed countermeasures have a lower standing strength than the energy absorbing units. Methods related to the above are also described.

Abstract: An extension valve for an impact dispersal system that includes an extendable member. The extension valve includes an actuating port that operates a first piston connected to a second piston. The second piston has a seat that isolates an inlet and an outlet. When a fluid with a specified pressure is applied to said actuating port, the first piston overcomes a preset bias and causes said second piston to move to an unseated position, which allows fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports. With a pressurized tank connected to the inlet port, actuation of the extension valve causes a pressurized fluid to flow through the extension valve, through a check valve, and into a fluid chamber in a cylinder, thereby causing a cylinder piston to extend into an impact ready position.

Abstract: A reinforcement device for a vehicle is formed in a slender shape and comprises a medial region with a hydraulic damper. The damper generates a damping force against deformation in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction is defined as a lateral direction of the associated vehicle body. The reinforcement device is removably mounted at both ends to a frame of the vehicle.

Abstract: A crash attenuator includes a crash cushion having a front end and a rear end, and a restraint element disposed adjacent the front end and capable of being coupled to a towing vehicle. The crash attenuator further includes at least one wheel supporting the crash cushion. The restraint element is operable between at least an impact condition and a non-impact condition.

Abstract: A variable valve for impact dispersal of a force, such as a force caused by an impact or explosion. The apparatus includes a valve with a spring biased piston that engages an outlet bore as the piston moves in response to the pressure of a fluid at an inlet port. The valve is in fluid communication with a cylinder that receives an impulse force. The fluid flow from the cylinder is controlled by the variable valve, which disperses the force accordingly at a controlled rate. In one embodiment, a pressurized reservoir is connected to an extension valve and a check valve that allows the cylinder to be filled with fluid from the reservoir when the extension valve is actuated. Applications for such a system include connection to aircraft seats and to aircraft landing gear.

Abstract: The invention provides a telescopic member that includes a cylinder in which a rod carrying a piston is mounted to slide telescopically, the telescopic member including internal abutment mechanisms that are overridable over a predetermined force when the rod comes into abutment inside the cylinder in the shortening direction. The internal abutment mechanisms include an abutment piece extending in an open bore within the rod and projecting therefrom, the abutment piece being held to the rod via a pin.

Abstract: An underrun protection arrangement for a vehicle having a frame includes an impact element arranged in a position that corresponds to an anticipated impact from a force in the event of a collision with another vehicle, and at least one energy-absorbing connecting element which connects the impact element to the frame and which is designed to be compressed in the event of the collision. The connecting element includes an outer section and an inner section which are telescopically arranged so that displacement of the outer section in relation to the inner section may occur upon the impact while energy is absorbed, the connecting element also including an energy-absorbing unit arranged to be compressed while absorbing energy during the displacement.

Abstract: A system for absorbing impact energy includes a container formed with a plurality of faces. An energy absorbing material is substantially contained within the container. A first elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a first face of the container. A long axis of the first elongated member intersects the first face. A first bumper is connected to the distal end of the first elongated member. A second elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a second face of the container. A long axis of the second elongated member intersects the second face. The second elongated member is approximately perpendicular to the first elongated member. A second bumper connected to the distal end of the second elongated member.

Abstract: A system for absorbing impact energy includes a container formed with a plurality of faces. An energy absorbing material is substantially contained within the container. A first elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a first face of the container. A long axis of the first elongated member intersects the first face. A first bumper is connected to the distal end of the first elongated member. A second elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a second face of the container. A long axis of the second elongated member intersects the second face. The second elongated member is approximately perpendicular to the first elongated member. A second bumper connected to the distal end of the second elongated member.

Abstract: A modular energy absorber 10 that is tunable. It comprises one or more energy absorbing modules 12. The energy absorbing modules 12 have means for coordinating 14 energy absorbing units 16 of the one or more modules. The means 14 for coordinating position and support the units 16 in relation to each other before and during relative motion between an incident object and the energy absorber. The units 16 are provided with an upper perimeter 22, a lower perimeter 24 and an intermediate wall 26 with stiffening male 36 or female 38 ribs. A method for configuring and for making the modular energy absorber are also disclosed.

Abstract: A motor vehicle has a support structure that contains longitudinal members and a crossmember. It is important that the crossmember, at a front/rear end, is fixedly connected to tubular crash elements which run in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The tubular crash elements respectively engage in an associated longitudinal member and are fixed therein coaxially with respect to the longitudinal member via at least two supporting points spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

Abstract: A frame deformation control apparatus to be used for a frame being constructed of a plurality of sub-frames, the frame deformation control apparatus has a joint unit connecting adjoining sub-frames, the joint unit allows the adjoining sub-frames to turn around the joint unit, a detector measuring a bending moment to be added to the joint unit, and a brake unit restricting the turn around the joint unit of the adjoining sub-frames.

Abstract: A system for absorbing impact energy includes a container formed with a plurality of faces. An energy absorbing material is substantially contained within the container. A first elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a first face of the container. A long axis of the first elongated member intersects the first face. A first bumper is connected to the distal end of the first elongated member. A second elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a second face of the container. A long axis of the second elongated member intersects the second face. The second elongated member is approximately perpendicular to the first elongated member. A second bumper connected to the distal end of the second elongated member.

Abstract: There is provided a vehicular impact energy absorption block arrangement adapted to provide impact energy absorption at a region substantially between a first strengthening member and a second strengthening member of a road vehicle. The energy absorption block arrangement comprises one or more energy absorber blocks operable to suffer deformation, for example substantially non-elastic deformation, when subject to forces arising from an impact or crash of the vehicle, thereby at least partially absorbing the impact energy. The one or more energy absorber blocks are fabricated from expanded plastics material foam, for example expanded polypropylene plastics material foam including pores therein. The pores may be substantially opened or closed.

Abstract: An apparatus for impact dispersal of a force applied to a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle or other carrier. The apparatus includes a hydraulic cylinder in fluid communication with a relief valve and a flow restrictor connected in series. The piston rod of each cylinder receives the force of an impact, which causes the fluid in the cylinder to undergo an increase in pressure, which is relieved by multiple relief valves and serially connected flow restrictors. In one embodiment, the relief valves and the flow restrictors are incorporated into a single valve. The system responds to an amount of force caused by an impact and disperses the force accordingly at a controlled rate. Applications for such an embodiment include connection to vehicle bumpers, to a seat back where the cylinder is double-acting, and to landing feet for air-drop carriers.

Abstract: A body frame of a vehicle for securing, in control of buckling, necessary strength without increasing the size of the frame member, and for reducing impact deceleration produced at the start of buckling. The body frame of has a frame member provided in one of a front portion and a rear portion of the vehicle; and a load imposing device, provided at an end of the frame member, for imposing a load on the frame member toward at least two opposite directions which are substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the frame member, when impact on the frame member is anticipated or imposed. The load imposing device may have a member made of a shape memory alloy.

Abstract: An impact damper for deceleration of a vehicle impacting on all obstacle by hydraulic damping forces and gas spring forces includes at least inner and outer pipes telescopically displaceable one inside the other and defining an annular space therebetween with a base closing one end of the inner pipe. A dividing piston is sealingly guided in the inner pipe. The inner pipe, the base, and the dividing piston define a gas space which holds gas under pressure. The inner pipe further defines a first liquid space separated from the gas space by the dividing piston. An intermediate wall is fastened to the inner pipe and includes a throttle opening therethrough connecting a second liquid space to the first liquid space. The annular space between the first and second pipes has one end sealed to the atmosphere and another end sealed by the intermediate wall. The annular space is connected to the second liquid space by a flow connection having a valve.

Abstract: Impact damper as a connecting member between a bumper and a chassis of a motor vehicle for the purpose of damping the shock loading during a collision between this motor vehicle and an obstacle, predominantly through gas-spring forces and deformation work. This impact damper includes an inner tube and an outer tube, which can be displaced telescopically one inside the other, thereby changing the volume of pressurized first and second gas spaces, at least one of the gas spaces being connected to an accumulator by a pneumatic feed line. An electrically controllable control valve, by means of which the air pressure in the gas spaces can be changed, can be arranged in the pneumatic feed line. The pressure in the gas spaces can be varied by a detection sensor system in the motor vehicle, which controls a control valve and adapts the pressure to the expected momentum of the collision. It is possible for a deformation element to be displaced as well to absorb a high impact energy by deformation work.

Abstract: A bumper for a motor vehicle that includes a frame attached to the motor vehicle, a covering that covers the frame, and at least one set of self contained gas springs that are for attaching to the motor vehicle. The at least one set of self contained gas springs supporting the frame allows transition of acceleration to be smoothed, both upon initial contact of the bumper until its maximum compression, and between maximum compression of the bumper and end-deformation of the motor vehicle, while lowering deformation to the motor vehicle and shock to its passengers and lowering overall compression distance in the bumper to save the motor vehicle from further damage. The at least one set of self contained gas springs raises deceleration of impact during compression of the bumper, but lowers deceleration during deformation of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: Crash attenuator for protecting a truck or stationary structure from damage resulting from impact of an object including a frame mountable to the structure, a bumper having an impact-receiving face adapted to receive an impact from the object, a movable displacement structure interposed between the frame and bumper and having a first position in which the bumper is relatively distant from the frame and a second position in which the bumper is relatively proximate to the frame, and an energy dissipation system coupled to the displacement structure for dissipating impact energy of the object received by the bumper which causes the displacement structure to be moved from the first position toward the second position. The energy dissipation system includes one or more deformable members which deform upon movement of the displacement structure from the first position toward the second position with such deformation causing dissipation of impact energy.

Abstract: A bumper for a motor vehicle; includes a cross member having an U-shaped cross section and intended for attachment to longitudinal members of a vehicle chassis. The cross member includes a web and two legs connected to the web. Received in the cross member is an impact absorber which has a cross member proximal end joined to the web and to confronting ends of the legs.

Abstract: This invention is related to an energy dissipating device for an automobile bumper, which includes two or more energy dissipaters, one or more oil tanks and oil pipes. There is a hollow rod-piston in each energy dissipater, which divides the dissipater into two chambers: a front chamber and a back chamber. In each back chamber a hollow oil-pin is installed with damping holes (oil-holes) on it. Energy dissipaters are filled with oil, and the oil-tank is filled with air. This invention can stand heavy force. When automobiles suffer severe bumping, this device can effectively dissipate bumping energy and reduce the damage to vehicles and personnel to a minimum.

Abstract: A crash attenuator for protecting a truck or stationary structure from damage resulting from impact of an object such as a vehicle including a fame mountable to a truck or stationary structure, a bumper having an impact-receiving face adapted to receive an impact from an object in a crash, a movable displacement structure coupled to the frame and interposed between the frame and the bumper and having a first position in which the bumper is relatively distant from the frame and a second position in which the bumper is relatively proximate to the frame, and an energy dissipation system coupled to the displacement structure for dissipating the impact energy of the object into the bumper which causes the displacement structure to be moved from the first position toward the second position.

Abstract: A vehicle bumper with shock-absorbers, including a rigid support attached to a vehicle onto which a bumper shell is fitted, the shock-absorbers including at least two pyrotechnic actuators linking the rigid support to the vehicle, the actuators being connected for activation by a control system including an impact or deceleration sensor, and each pyrotechnic actuator including at least two gas-generating powder tablets to be primed individually by the control system.

Abstract: A vehicle shows a vehicle bumper (9) having a first member (10) and a second member (11) connected to a vehicle. Low viscosity liquid (12) is trapped in between members (10 and 11) and on impact of member (10) with an obstacle a frangible membrane (13) can burst causing a high velocity liquid jet to be expelled through channel (11a) thus dissipating the impact energy.

Abstract: An extendable element absorbs impact energy from a baffle and is capable of being moved by a trigger connected to a collision monitoring system. The device is moved in the longitudinal direction out of an initial position, in which it is received essentially in a vehicle side member, into a working position and is capable of being detained in this position. At the same time, the extendable element is guided in a cylinder arranged in the vehicle side member. The cylinder is connected to the vehicle side member via a turn-up profile arrangement which is capable of being transferred out of a position of rest into a deformation position.

Abstract: A crash attenuator for protecting a truck or stationary structure from damage resulting from impact of an object such as a vehicle including a frame mountable to a truck or stationary structure, a bumper having an impact-receiving face adapted to receive an impact from an object in a crash, a movable displacement structure coupled to the frame and interposed between the frame and the bumper and having a first position in which the bumper is relatively distant from the frame and a second position in which the bumper is relatively proximate to the frame, and an energy dissipation system coupled to the displacement structure for dissipating the impact energy of the object into the bumper which causes said displacement structure to be moved from the first position toward the second position.

Abstract: A lift apparatus adapted to be mounted on a vehicle for supporting an attenuator cushion comprising a vehicle mounted support frame; a support member coupled to said support frame and extending outward from said vehicle; and a mounting bracket to which the attenuator cushion is coupled, the mounting bracket pivotably coupled to the support member along an axis to pivot between a horizontal deployed position in which the cushion extends generally outward from the vehicle, and a vertical position in which the cushion extends vertically upward, wherein the mounting bracket engages the support member along a majority of the width of the mounting bracket when the cushion is in the vertical position.

Abstract: An energy absorption device designed to be mounted on the rear of a high elevation vehicle (e.g. a truck, cargo carrier, trailer or semi-trailer). More particularly, a torsional under-ride guard for use with a high elevation vehicle, which torsional under-ride guard reduces the likelihood that another vehicle will under-ride the high elevation vehicle and absorbs some of the impact energy created when another vehicle collides with the torsional under-ride guard.

Abstract: An energy absorbing device adapted to be connected between a motor vehicle bumper and a motor vehicle frame includes a liquid filled cylinder having a piston therein connected to the impact receiving device. The cylinder is provided with a plurality of weakened areas along the length of the cylinder which will rupture in sequence upon application of force by the piston to the liquid, thereby dissipating the force applied to the impact receiving means. A spring or an explosive device may be provided between the piston and closed end of the cylinder or the interior walls of the cylinder may be roughened to provide additional resistance to the movement of the piston within the cylinder. Additionally, the liquid expelled from the cylinder can be channeled through various devices to apply a reverse force to the impact receiving device.

Abstract: An energy absorbing bumper that dissipates kinetic energy of a moving mass via conversion to compressive membrane energy stored in a primary beam-column, potential energy stored in two laterally mounted energy absorbers and bending energy stored in a secondary beam-column. During impact the primary beam-column is laterally compressed as it flattens developing a large amount of compressive membrane energy. During deformation, the primary beam-column slides into the secondary beam-column having a central channel that accommodates the primary beam-column.

Abstract: A cushioned braking system for cushioning the impact of a moving vehicle for amusement for children is disclosed. The braking system comprises a double ended air cylinder having a first cylinder end and a second cylinder end. A first head member and a second head member close the first and second cylinder ends, respectively. A first piston rod extends axially outward from the cylinder through the first head member. A first piston is on the first piston rod within the cylinder. A second piston rod extends axially outward from the cylinder through the second head member. A second piston is on the second piston rod within the cylinder. A spring assembly resiliently connects the first piston to the second piston within the cylinder. The spring assembly serves to bias the first and second pistons toward a reference position. The cylinder also has a vent for controlling air flow within the cylinder.

Abstract: A bumper device for motor vehicle is disclosed. A series of impact absorbing means to reduce the force of impact from collision that is transmitted onto the chassis of a vehicle is disclosed. The impact absorbing means includes: a hydraulic cylinder and piston means, an impact receiving means, a liaising and resilient body means. The impact receiving means includes a pneumatic tubular body secured to it to be the contact body on collision.

Abstract: Impact-absorbing damping device which has at least two telescoping tubes, in particular for motor vehicles, to decelerate a vehicle when it collides with an obstacle by damping and/or spring forces, whereby the cavity of at least one tube is provided with an elastomer body.

Abstract: A vehicle has a frame enclosing the usable space of the vehicle. An extendable impact protection unit is connected to the frame. The extendable impact protection unit has an extendable member and a telescopic device for extending and retracting the extendable member relative to the frame. The extendable impact protection unit, when extended, enlarges the outer contour of the vehicle and provides a deformation zone for absorbing impact forces in order to protect the usable space. The telescopic device has at least two extendable components engaging different locations of the extendable member and having a travel stroke from a retracted position into an extended position. The at least two extendable components have an impact compensation capacity. The vehicle also includes a device for adjusting at least one of the impact compensation capacity and the travel stroke independently for each one of the at least two extendable components.

Abstract: An impact moderating mechanism for automobiles comprising a pair of identical bump wave absorbing and tranferring devices at two ends of a chassis respectively. Each of the bump wave absorbing and transferring devices have an outer bumper, a pair of first hydraulic cylinders, a pair of second hydraulic cylinders and a plurality of conduits thereof connected thereinbetween, which devices can functionally absorb a certain amount of bump wave firstly at one end, then transfers a large portion of the bump wave to be eliminated in the other end. A cross arrangement of the conduits for the first hydraulic cylinders thereinbetween can prevent an automobile subject to an impact from being swung and/or overturned. Futhermore, the absorbing capacity of bump wave shall be doubled for each of the collision autombiles if they are both equipped with this impact moderating mechanism.

Abstract: A bumper system including an extendable bumper resiliently disposed in the direction of impact. The system is compact and, even at elevated impact speeds, protects the automotive vehicle against damage. The bumper is extended by an adequate amount before or during the situation of danger. A progressive damping characteristic and a suitable drive to quickly extend and to safely return the bumper are provided.

Abstract: Impact damper for motor vehicles, the impact damper having two tubes which can be pushed one inside the other, the inner tube consisting of a first and second fluid chamber and a gas chamber separated from the first fluid chamber by a separating piston. A third fluid chamber, separated from the second fluid chamber by a work piston can extend the tubes relative to one another by changing the pressure within the fluid chambers.

Abstract: A push roll assembly mounted to a material receiving apparatus, such as a paver or other material receiving machine, includes a resilient link which allows energy transferred during contact of a supply truck with the push rolls to be gradually transferred to the material receiving machine, to thereby smoothen the impact between such truck and the machine.

Abstract: This invention relates to a high performance car bumper module having a covering front piece; a reinforcing element; and a system for controlled and reversible force displacement. The reinforcing element has a bow system which includes a pair of hinges, which are connected to each other with a tie-rod and a pair of hinge-fasteners. The controlled and reversible force displacement system comprises two hydraulic shock absorbers fastened on one end thereof to the bow system through the respective hinge fasteners, wherein each hinge-fastener includes a transverse slot.

Abstract: The present invention includes a mounting assembly for securing an energy absorber unit to vehicular support. A collar having a hub portion is secured to the energy absorber. The hub portion includes at least one circumferential ramp and flange. A mounting plate having at least one tab is secured to the vehicular support. As the collar is placed adjacent the mounting plate, the ramp is rotated into a slip fit with the tab. Preferably, a locking projection of the mounting plate is received in an opening on the flange of the collar to prevent inadvertent rotation of the collar out of a secured position. Also, an alignment key and notch can be formed on the mounting plate and collar, respectively, to facilitate proper orientation of the collar during installation.

Abstract: Impact damper for motor vehicles, the impact damper having two tubes which can be pushed one inside the other, the inner tube having a first and second fluid chamber and a gas chamber separated from the fluid chamber by a separating piston. A third fluid chamber is located behind a work piston and the tubes can be retracted or extended by changing the pressure within the fluid chambers of the impact damper.

Abstract: Safety device for forklift trucks comprises a bumper fixed to a telescopic support fitted to the vehicle chassis, the support being able to traverse and rotate to a limited extent in relation to the chassis. The support is connected to equipment designed to activate devices which stop the vehicle if the movements and/or rotations of the support exceed a preset value.

Abstract: An impact absorber for an automobile bumper comprises a housing and a pair of cylinders arranged in the housing. A third cylinder having two openings at its ends is parallelly disposed between the pair of cylinders such that two gaps are defined by the walls of the pair of cylinders, the third cylinder and the housing. Apertures are formed through the walls of the pair of cylinders facing each other adjacent one end of each of the pair of cylinders for expelling damping liquid from the pair of cylinders into the gaps upon movement of the pistons in the pair of cylinders for damping the impact force. The pressure of damping liquid in the gaps forces two pistons within the third cylinder to move toward each other thereby compressing a coil spring mounted between the two pistons for further damping the impact force. The compressed air between the two pistons within the third cylinder escapes from an aperture formed through the walls of the third cylinder and the housing.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing bumper system for an automotive vehicle includes a conduit subsystem for conducting hydraulic fluid therein, a supply subsystem for supplying hydraulic fluid, a pressure-balancing subsystem for regulating the pressure of hydraulic fluid, front and rear bumper subsystems for respectively extending and retracting front and rear bumpers and for absorbing shock, a switching subsystem for directing hydraulic fluid, and a feedback subsystem for absorbing shock.