Peter B Morehead

US Patent:

44524315, Jun 5, 1984

Filed:

May 19, 1982

Appl. No.:

6/379869

Inventors:

Barry D. Stephens - Citrus Heights CA
Peter B. Morehead - Sacramento CA

Assignee:

Energy Absorption Systems, Inc. - Chicago IL

International Classification:

A01K 300
E01F 1500

US Classification:

256 131

Abstract:

A self-restoring fender panel for a reusable impact attenuation device is provided. Buffer elements are positioned in an ordered array extending forwardly of a rigid backing member adjacent to a fixed structure. Diaphragm members are interposed in the array and extend laterally outward of the array at fixed intervals. Fender panels are pivotally coupled to laterally extending ends of the diaphragm members and extend rearwardly from their associated diaphragm members and partially overlap the fender panels coupled to the succeeding diaphragm members. Biasing means, such as an extension spring, interconnects each of the fender panels with the diaphragm member to which the fender panel is pivotally coupled to bias the fender panels laterally inward. Nonrigid means such as a cable connects the backing member and the diaphragm members. Preferably, the fender panels are connected to the nonrigid means by releasable clips, which may be made of wire.

US Patent:

45837163, Apr 22, 1986

Filed:

May 19, 1982

Appl. No.:

6/379868

Inventors:

Barry D. Stephens - Citrus Heights CA
Peter B. Morehead - Sacramento CA
James B. Welch - Placerville CA

Assignee:

Energy Absorption Systems, Inc. - Chicago IL

International Classification:

A01K 300
E01F 1500

US Classification:

256 131

Abstract:

A universal front anchoring system for reusable impact attenuation devices is provided. Buffer elements are positioned in an ordered array extending forwardly of a rigid backing member adjacent to a fixed structure. Diaphragm members are interposed in the array and extend laterally outward of the array at fixed intervals. Fender panels are pivotally coupled to laterally extending ends of the diaphragm members and extend rearwardly from their associated diaphragm members and partially overlap the fender panels coupled to the succeeding diaphragm members. Nonrigid means such as restraining cables and secondary cables interconnects the backing member and the diaphragm members. A pair of laterally spaced anchor assemblies is connected to the nonrigid means at the forward end of the impact attenuation device. The anchor assemblies are adapted for fixing to the ground and are symmetrical, identical and interchangeable with each other. Preferably, the anchor assemblies have a large central mounting bracket for securing one of the restraining cables and two smaller mounting brackets laterally spaced on opposite sides of the central mounting bracket, one of which is used to secure one of the secondary cables.