Daimlerchrysler Corporation

Matthew W Liddane

Shawn Robert Williams

Jeffrey S Rausch

Joseph G Lemmon

Jerry D Loman

Thomas A Lariviere

A blow molded (HIC) formation with energy buffers provides absorption of vehicle occupant cranial impacts. A generally plastic, forced air, expanded formation defines a cavity, the formation walls being of varied geometric shapes having calculated wall thicknesses, each shape having an energy absorbing and resiliency characteristic. The formation of geometric shapes is positioned depending upon the vehicle stiffness characteristics and the degree of impact absorption required. Geometric shapes employed may consist of sinusoidal waveforms, a gabled design, or either of the preceding with an internal strengthening rib employed to alter formation impact absorbing characteristics. The formation contains an orifice to ensure that vehicle occupant energy is efficiently absorbed during the concurrent events of formation compaction and air expulsion through the orifice. The blow molded formation may be glued or otherwise suitably fastened to an automobile headliner, door panel, pillar, or other location.

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Canton, MI, United States of America

Matthew W Liddane