Pedestrian protection apparatus for motor vehicles

摘要

A pedestrian protection apparatus particularly adapted for motor vehicle front end structures for mitigating injuries of pedestrians struck by the vehicle. The apparatus incorporates a front grill which is moveable between extended and retracted positions. While it is in its extended position, the grill is designed to absorb energy from a pedestrian impact to reduce pedestrian injuries. The position of the grill is controlled by an actuator which responds to control inputs such as vehicle speed.