Adjustable energy absorbing device providing linear deceleration

Abstract

An adjustable kinetic energy absorbing device wherein a piston is moved in response to an applied impact force along within a tube defining a chamber containing hydraulic fluid. The tube has a plurality of orifice openings therein spaced therealong in the direction of movement of the piston, and an elongated path is defined outwardly of the chamber, preferably in the outer surface of the tube, and in fluid communication with the orifice openings. The path is relatively narrow in width and extends along the tube. An elongated flow control element is supported in the device and movable lengthwise along the path in response to manual operation of an adjustment assembly including a cam operatively engaging the elongated element. The flow control element has formations spaced therealong adapted to register with the orifice openings to control flow of hydraulic fluid through the openings in response to movement of the element. A region in the device in fluid communication with the path receives fluid flowing through the orifice openings and along the path in response to movement of the piston.