Vehicle safety mechanism for dissipating collision forces

Brakes – Vehicle – Ground-engaging

Patent

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Details

293 6, 293107, 188 8, B60T 114

Patent

active

061585564

ABSTRACT:
A safety system for dissipating the forces involved in a vehicle collision comprises two large friction platforms beneath the vehicle unibody or floor pan, with each platform having an actuator between the platform and the overlying vehicle structure and connected to the platform by a series of struts or arms. The actuators are preferably automated and pyrotechnically actuated to drive the struts outwardly and downwardly, thereby driving the platforms downwardly beneath the vehicle and against the underlying surface to lift the vehicle slightly above the underlying surface. The vehicle may be surrounded by a plurality of bumper-like impact absorbing contact structures, with each structure also linked to a corresponding friction platform. The outer portion of each contact structure telescopes into the inner portion, and drives a series of struts connected to the corresponding friction platform. Each contact structure may also include a sensor for impact detection and linkage for triggering the actuators to drive the platforms. The safety system thus minimizes interaction between vehicle and another impacted object by progressive actuation of the trapezoidal contact structure and associated mechanisms, while maximizing interaction between vehicle and underlying surface by the actuator and friction platform. Alternatively, high spring rate compression springs may be provided in addition to the pyrotechnic actuation system, with the springs providing slower actuation for repeatable manual operation for securing the car against theft or holding the car in place on a grade or in slippery conditions.

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