Progressive Mechanical Absorption System (MAS): A Novel Graded-Spring Approach for Vehicle Impact Protection

This research presents a novel mechanical energy absorption system for vehicles based on progressive spring activation. The Progressive Mechanical Absorption System (MAS) addresses the gap in current vehicle safety systems, which focus primarily on severe collisions despite 72% of accidents occurring below 45 km/h. The system employs graded springs that activate sequentially according to impact severity, combined with velocity-dependent mechanical damping and automatic restoration capability. Theoretical analysis indicates 85-95% absorption efficiency with >99% restoration capability for low and medium-intensity impacts (