Patent ID: 7628444
Filing Date: 2009-12-08
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
1. A multi-sectional, modular energy absorber placed adjacent to a support member comprising: one or more modules, each of the one or more modules having an average energy absorbing characteristic so that when positioned in relation to the underlying support elongate member, a module positioned adjacent an end of the support member has energy absorbing characteristic that differs from that in proximity to a central region of the support member, at least some of the one or more of the modules having: an energy absorbing unit, at least some of the units having a first section and a second section that are juxtaposed to form an energy absorbing unit; a first and second flange section extending from the first and second sections; means for locating the first and second sections in relation to each other, the locating means being provided in the first and second flange sections; means for coordinating energy absorbing units the means for coordinating having a topography including a number (n) of apertures defined therein, where n is an integer≧0, the means for coordinating positioning the energy absorbing units in relation to each other before relative motion between an incident object and the modular energy absorber, so that impact forces resulting therefrom are at least partially absorbed by at least some of the energy absorbing units, at least some of the first and second sections including