Shock absorbing mechanism with feet protection for vehicle and aircraft seats
US9283874B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 2009 |
| Grant date | Mar 15, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49615
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for minimizing accelerations during impacts such as those encountered in motor vehicle accidents, helicopter and airplane crashes, explosions, and the like. The preferred embodiment takes the form of a helical spring-like member (100), designed to experience plastic deformation over a desired deformation length, under a given impact load threshold. The spring-like member is preferably installed in a mechanical linkage that is flattened under impact, straining the spring-like member in a predictable fashion. The operating characteristics of this system [namely the stress-strain curve, and thus the deformation length, impact load threshold, and acceptable load range for the system to be protected] can be easily controlled by varying the device dimensions and installation configuration.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.