Rear under-ride protection device

Abstract

An improved bumper system includes a pair of brackets connected to the spaced frame members of a motor vehicle. A support arm is pivotally connected at one end to each of the brackets. The opposite end of each support arm is connected to a transverse beam that forms separate first and second bumper sections. The brackets support the support arms and bumper sections at a desired height above the ground. Each support arm is maintained relative to the respective bracket by gravity. A shear pin provides a redundant retention of the arm relative to the bracket. The arms and bumper sections of the improved bumper system remain in position relative to the bracket even in the event of a horizontal impact. A vertical impact of one or both bumper sections by obstacles or terrain causes the shear pin to be severed, allowing the bumper section(s) to pivot relative to the bracket, rather than to bend or deform.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.