Patent ID: 8882194

Claim:
An energy absorbing device for a seat containing an occupant, comprising: a seat frame having an upper surface and a lower surface; a plurality of leg members attached to the lower surface of the seat frame; a seat pan attached to the upper surface of the seat frame; a back member attached to the upper surface of the seat frame and approximately perpendicular to the seat pan; an energy absorbing device fixed approximate to where the back member attaches to the seat frame, comprising: an engagement portion fixing the energy absorbing device to at least one of the seat frame and the back member; and an energy absorbing extension having a fixed end integral with the engagement portion, and a protruding end extending toward the seat pan; and a belt support device comprising: a first end fixed to the engagement portion; and a second end, approximately opposite the first end, engaging a seatbelt to support the occupant, and extends parallel to the energy absorbing extension; wherein when the occupant is using the seatbelt and the seat undergoes lateral forces, the energy absorbing extension undergoes deformation; wherein when the occupant is not using the seatbelt and the seat undergoes lateral forces, the energy absorbing extension does not undergo deformation; and wherein the energy absorbing extension is unsupported by any of the seat frame, seat pan, or back member between the fixed end and the protruding end.