Crash attenuator with release plate hinge assembly, release plate hinge assembly and method for the use thereof

A crash attenuator comprising:

• a frame comprising a first frame member and a second frame member moveable relative to each other between a pre-impact configuration and an impact configuration, wherein the first and second frame members are rigidly connected with a hinge assembly in the pre-impact configuration and wherein the first and second frames are hingedly connected with the hinge assembly in the impact configuration, wherein the hinge assembly comprises:
• a release plate fixedly connected to the first frame member, wherein the release plate comprises a first flange fixedly connected to the first frame member, a second flange extending from the first flange in a non-parallel relationship, and a gusset flange connected to the first flange, wherein the gusset flange comprises a free edge disposed along a surface of the second flange, and wherein the second flange comprises a fastener opening and a slot extending between the fastener opening and an edge of the release plate;
• and
• a fastener extending through the fastener opening and connecting the second flange of the release plate to the second frame member when the first and second frames are in the pre-impact configuration, wherein the fastener is releasable through the slot as the first and second frame members are moveable from the pre-impact configuration to the impact configuration.

A crash attenuator comprising:

• a frame comprising a first frame member and a second frame member moveable relative to each other between a pre-impact configuration and an impact configuration, wherein the first and second frame members are rigidly connected with a hinge assembly in the pre-impact configuration and wherein the first and second frames are hingedly connected with the hinge assembly in the impact configuration, wherein the hinge assembly comprises:
• a hinge plate fixedly connected to the first and second frame members;
• a release plate fixedly connected to the first frame member, wherein the release plate comprises a first fastener opening and a first slot extending between the first fastener opening and an edge of the release plate, and a second fastener opening spaced apart from the first fastener opening and a second slot extending between the second fastener opening and the edge of the release plate;
• and
• a first fastener extending through the first fastener opening and a second fastener extending through the second fastener opening, wherein the first and second fasteners connect the release plate to the second frame member free of any engagement with the hinge plate when the first and second frames are in the pre-impact configuration, and wherein the first and second fasteners are releasable through the first and second slots respectively as the first and second frame members are moveable from the pre-impact configuration to the impact configuration.