ENERGY ABSORPTION DEVICE AND PASSENGER SAFETY CROSSBAR SYSTEM INCORPORATING SAME

摘要

An energy absorption device comprises an elongated base member and an elongated mechanically fused spring arm extending longitudinally from a firs t end secured to the base member to a free distal end. The spring arm has resilien ce for storing mechanical energy when flexed from a normally unflexed position to a flexed position. During such movement, the resistance offered by the mechanical fusing must be overcome. Thus the device serves both to store and to dissipate mechanical energy. Suitable fusing mechanisms include shear pins and mechanical fuse strips. Systems comprising a passenger safety crossbar supported by a pair of such energy absorption devices is also disclosed.