Patent ID: 6293727
Filing Date: 2001-09-25
Classification: B60R,E01F,H02H

Abstract:
An energy absorbing system to minimize the results of a collision between a vehicle traveling on a roadway and a roadside hazard comprising:the energy absorbing system having a first end and a second end;the second end of the energy absorbing system disposed adjacent to the roadside hazard with the first end extending longitudinally therefrom;a sled assembly slidably disposed at the first end of the energy absorbing system;at least one energy absorbing assembly disposed between the roadside hazard and the sled assembly;each energy absorbing assembly having at least one energy absorbing element;the sled assembly having a cutter plate mounted adjacent to and aligned with each energy absorbing element; andthe sled assembly having a first end facing oncoming traffic whereby a collision of a vehicle with the first end of the sled assembly will cause the cutter plate to slide longitudinally relative to the energy absorbing element and dissipate kinetic energy of the vehicle by separating the energy absorbing element.