Importance

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Abstract

An integrated impact energy management system is provided for managing a wide range of impact energies exerted upon impact of a vehicle with an object. The system includes a cover structure adapted for attachment to a vehicle, the cover structure being designed to deform elastically when impact energy is exerted thereon, and having an inner surface with a preformed detent. The system also includes a folding coupler mechanism including a shank having a proximate end adapted to attach to the vehicle, and a longitudinal axis that extends from the proximate end to a distal end in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The shank has an energy absorption element for absorbing energy caused by compressive forces exerted along the longitudinal axis of the shank. The folding coupler mechanism also includes a coupling head pivotally attached to the distal end of the shank for pivoting between an extended position and a stowed position. The distal end of the shank moves into the preformed detent in the cover structure after consumption of the energy absorbing capacity of the cover structure when the coupling head is in the stowed position.

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First Claim