Described is a bumper concept which provides a high level of balanced performance with regard to both safety and damage resistance in significant impacts with other objects, including pedestrians.
It is proposed that this bumper could be manufactured as a one-piece composite of a flexible RIM urethane or other skin, energy management foam, and peripheral attachment flange (or bolt on radiator support) in a manner similar to cushioned crash pad construction.
Specifically, the design offers 5 MPH barrier capability in combination with 18 MPH pedestrian/bumper impact protection, as well as pendulum capability significantly above the current 2½ MPH U.S. Bumper Standard. Furthermore, the system is fully resistant to damage to itself and significantly reduces damage to any object impacted.
This low force, low density foam system eliminates the conventional support beam which in combination with the integral one-piece construction, results in very low weight and cost.