Patent ID: 7380827
Filing Date: 2008-06-03
Classification: B60R,B62D

Abstract:
1. A method for tuning the energy absorption level of an impact absorption system in a motor vehicle during an impact event, the impact absorption system including a sliding sleeve assembly extending between a first mounting bracket and a second mounting bracket, a piston cylinder assembly operably coupled to the first and second mounting brackets, and a plurality of igniters in communication with the piston cylinder assembly, the method comprising; determining a minimum energy absorption level based on driver and vehicle conditions; determining severity of an impact event; adjusting the minimum energy absorption level based on the severity of the impact event if the severity of the impact event requires a greater amount of energy absorption than the minimum energy absorption level; and activating a number of the plurality of igniters based on the minimum energy absorption level to absorb the minimum energy absorption level during the impact event by releasing a pressurized fluid to pressurize the piston cylinder assembly.