It boasts high-strength frame, side-impact collision bars, front and back crumple zones, an
energy-absorbing steering column, ISO-FIX child seat anchors, tyre pressure monitoring system, driver status detection system, panoramic sunroof, shark-fin antenna, roof rails, side steps and 18' aluminium alloy wheels.
In recent years, interlayer-type structures that incorporate new
energy-absorbing layers in the form of foamed metal have received significant research and development attention.
-- Purdue University is collaborating with General Motors (GM) to develop a new type of
energy-absorbing, 3-D-printed material that could lead to innovations in a variety of areas, including building construction.
Features include multiple layers of rigid polycarbonate, plus
energy-absorbing thermoplastic rubber and polyurethane rubber or elastomeric copolymer rubber to absorb shock and protect against drops and impact.
Chemistry demonstrations included the mixing of barium hydroxide with ammonium salt to create a highly endothermic, or
energy-absorbing, reaction.
The main
energy-absorbing mechanisms throughout the ballistic impact include kinetic energy absorbed by the moving pellet on the back face of the target, energy absorbed due to tensile failure of the primary fibers' layer, energy absorbed due to the elastic deformation of the secondary fibers' layer, energy absorbed due to matrix cracking and delamination, and frictional energy absorbed in the course of penetration.
For maximum uptime, the unit's divert switches incorporate precision lubricated thermal plastic elements that are individually replaceable, while pop-off/snap-on divert shoes have
energy-absorbing honeycomb elastomer cushions to reduce jams and provide gentle diverts.
It obviously will not solve all problems but it will give an
energy-absorbing, worthwhile pastime to many with a minimum expenditure and use of space.