WO2020147976A1

WO2020147976A1 - Connection assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2020147976A1
Application number: PCT/EP2019/051298
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thibault PONCELET
Original assignee: Toyota Motor Europe NV SA
Current assignee: Toyota Motor Europe NV SA
Priority date: 2019-01-18
Filing date: 2019-01-18
Publication date: 2020-07-23
Anticipated expiration: 2021-07-18

Abstract

An insert (9) and a connection assembly comprising the insert (9). The insert (9) may be arranged between a bracket (8) and an anchor (10), which may be attached to said bracket (8). A first portion (101) of the insert (9) may be rotatable with respect to a second portion (102) of the insert (9). The rotatability of the first portion (101) of the insert (9) with respect to the second portion (102) of the insert may be in response to the bracket (8) bending around a first axis (201).

Description

CONNECTION ASSEMBLY

FIELD

[0001] The present description relates to the field of vehicle occupant safety.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] A problem in the field of vehicle occupant safety is that, during intense changes in vehicle velocity (such as impulse and acceleration) relative to surroundings thereof, objects contained within the vehicle may become dangerous to vehicle structures or even to each other. For example, as a forward-moving automobile decelerates (accelerating in a rearward direction) to avoid a collision (or even during a collision), an object contained in the vehicle may begin to move relative to the vehicle in a direction towards a front end of the vehicle. This relative movement may cause the object to impact a structure of the vehicle, such as a front windshield of the automobile, or even another object contained in the vehicle, such as a human occupant of the vehicle. Impacts between a vehicle's occupant and an object contained in the vehicle and moving relative thereto are common and tragic, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries each year. Impacts between a vehicle structure and an object contained in the vehicle are also responsible for significant damage to vehicles each year.

[0003] To prevent such impacts, a vehicle may be provided with a safety barrier to limit the amount of relative movement possible between the vehicle and an object contained therein. However, if this safety barrier is not connected to the vehicle, its ability to limit this relative movement is greatly reduced, and it even may begin to move relative to the vehicle in situations such as those described above, thereby becoming dangerous as well.

[0004] Unfortunately, the same velocity-change phenomena described above are able to break conventional connections between vehicles and the safety barriers provided therein.

SUMMARY

[0005] The inventors have recognized that absorption of mechanical energy plays a key role in the breakage of connections between vehicles and accessories therefor. A safety barrier is a non-limiting example of an accessory for a vehicle. It is therefore a goal of the present invention to provide a connection that resists breakage during intense changes in velocity of the vehicle relative to its surroundings. Non-limiting examples of changes in velocity include acceleration and impulse. Deceleration is a non-limiting example of acceleration. Non-limiting examples of vehicles include aircraft, watercraft, spacecraft, automobiles, apparatuses capable of being propelled by their surroundings (such as with sails and/or gravity) and/or by one or more organisms and/or by one or more other apparatuses.

[0006] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a connection assembly may be provided. The connection assembly may comprise an insert. The insert may be arranged between a bracket and an anchor. The connection assembly may comprise the bracket. The connection assembly may comprise the anchor. The anchor may be attached to the bracket. A first portion of the insert may be rotatable. The first portion of the insert may be rotatable with respect to a second portion of the insert. The first portion of the insert may be rotatable with respect to the second portion of the insert in response to the bracket bending. The bracket may bend around a first axis. The first portion of the insert may be rotatable with respect to the second portion of the insert in response to the bracket bending around the first axis.

[0007] The connection assembly may allow a vehicle to be connected to an accessory therefor, such as a safety barrier.

[0008] The insert may serve a decorative or aesthetic function. For example, the insert may conceal one or more other portions/components of the connection assembly, such as the bracket. The insert may serve a protective function for the connection assembly. For example, the insert may prevent foreign objects, such as detritus or bodily appendages, from gaining access to the bracket and/or at least a portion of the anchor. For example, if the anchor is connected to the bracket via one or more threaded connectors, such as a nut/bolt combination, the insert may prevent the foreign object from loosening or breaking this connection. At least portion of the periphery of the insert may be placed in contact with the vehicle when the connection assembly is mounted.

[0009] The bracket may allow the connection assembly to be attached in a permanent or semi-permanent fashion to an object. As a non-limiting example, the bracket may allow the connection assembly to be attached in a permanent fashion by being welded to an object. For example, the bracket may be welded to a portion of a vehicle. As a non-limiting example, the bracket may allow the connection assembly to be attached in a semi-permanent fashion by being bolted to an object. For example, the bracket may be bolted to a portion of the vehicle. [0010] The anchor may allow the connection assembly to be attached in a semipermanent or detachable fashion to an object. As a non-limiting example, the anchor may allow the connection assembly to be attached to an object in a detachable manner by being disconnectable without disassembly of the connection assembly or the object.

[0011] Mounting the bracket on one item may allow the anchor to be presented for the other item to be connected thereto directly. For example, the bracket may allow the connection assembly to be mounted to a vehicle, and may allow the anchor to be presented for an accessory to be attached thereto. Having the anchor connected to the bracket may allow mechanical energy to be transferred therebetween. When one the items connected to the connection assembly is solicited, mechanical energy may be transferred across the anchor and bracket to the other of the items connected to the connection assembly. For example, a safety barrier connected to the anchor may, when solicited, transfer mechanical energy to a vehicle connected to the bracket. This solicitation may occur, for example, when an object contained in the vehicle contacts or bears upon the safety barrier, as can occur during an intense change in vehicle velocity. If the connection assembly is provided for connecting a vehicle and a safety barrier, this arrangement may allow forces or mechanical energy received by the safety barrier from an object contained in the vehicle to be transferred to the vehicle. In other words, the interaction between the vehicle and the object, by way of the connection assembly and the safety barrier, may serve to reduce movement or accelerations of the object contained in the vehicle relative to the vehicle. This may allow the object to be prevented from becoming dangerous to vehicle occupants.

[0012] If the connection assembly is intensely solicited, the bracket may bend. Intense solicitation of the connection assembly may arise, for example, if an object connected thereto transfers high forces or large amounts of mechanical energy therethrough. For example, if an object contained in a vehicle undergoing intense changes in velocity (as can occur during emergency deceleration and/or collision of the vehicle with an object in the surroundings) is in contact with a safety barrier attached to the vehicle by the connection assembly, the mechanical energy or forces transmitted to the vehicle by way of the connection assembly may constitute intense solicitation of the connection assembly and cause the bracket to bend around an axis. As the bracket bends, it may absorb mechanical energy and thus decelerate the object contained in the vehicle. In this way, the object contained in the vehicle may be rendered less dangerous or even prevented from becoming dangerous. As the bracket bends, a first portion of the insert may rotate. In this way, interference of this portion of the insert with the bending of the bracket may be avoided or limited. This first portion may rotate with respect to a second portion of the insert. In this way, the insert may also contribute to absorbing mechanical energy from the object contained in the vehicle.

[0013] According to embodiments, the first portion of the insert may be rotatable in response to the bracket bending around a second axis. The first portion of the insert may be rotatable with respect to the second portion of the insert in response to the bracket bending around the second axis. The second axis may be perpendicular to the first axis.

[0014] This arrangement may allow the bracket to absorb energy from an object contained in the vehicle even if a component of the object's acceleration or movement relative to the vehicle includes a component which is parallel to the first axis.

[0015] According to embodiments, the bracket may be configured to deform a groove. The bracket may be configured to deform the groove by bending. The groove may be provided in the insert. The groove may be provided in the insert between the first portion of the insert and the second portion of the insert.

[0016] The groove may provide a localized reduction in thickness of the insert, and/or a position in which stress concentrations may occur during loading of the insert. As such, deformation of the insert may be concentrated or intensified around the groove.

[0017] Non-limiting examples of modes of deformation of the groove include bending, shear, tension and compression. The groove may deform elastically and/or plastically and/or may rupture. Deformation of the groove may allow the insert to absorb mechanical energy as the first and second portions of the insert rotate relative to one another.

[0018] The bracket may present a shape, such as along a free edge, which substantially corresponds to a shape traced by the groove. In this way, the bracket may be able to contact only one of the first and second portions of the insert, without contacting the other portion. Uneven loading on either side of the groove may result from such an arrangement as the bracket bends. Such uneven loading may facilitate deformation of the groove.

[0019] According to embodiments, the insert may comprise a peripheral region. The peripheral region of the insert may comprise a notch. [0020] A notch may facilitate deformation of the peripheral region in the event of the insert with the connection assembly's surroundings during bending of the bracket. This behavior may limit the effects of such interactions on the ability of the connection assembly to absorb mechanical energy as the bracket bends. Deformation of the peripheral region may include elastic and/or plastic deformation, and/or rupture.

[0021] According to additional or alternative embodiments, the peripheral region of the insert may comprise a reinforced portion. The reinforced portion may be connected to an unreinforced portion. The reinforced portion may present a higher stiffness than the unreinforced portion.

[0022] The reinforced portion may prevent objects in the connection assembly's surroundings from significantly deforming the peripheral region of the insert when the bracket is not undergoing bending. In contrast, the unreinforced portion may allow the peripheral region of the insert to deform significantly during interactions with the connection assembly's surroundings as the bracket bends. Through proper arrangement of the reinforced portion and the unreinforced portion, the insert may resist deformations when the bracket is not bending, but avoid interfering with the connection assembly's ability to absorb mechanical energy as the bracket bends.

[0023] According to embodiments, the bracket may be configured to deform a cutout. The bracket may be configured to deform the cutout by bending. The cutout may be provided in the insert. The cutout may be provided at least the first portion of the insert. The bracket may be configured to deform multiple cutouts. The bracket may be configured to deform at least one, or even all of the cutouts, by bending. At least one of the cutouts, or even all of the cutouts, may be provided in the insert. At least one of the cutouts, or even all of the cutouts, may be provided in at least the first portion of the insert.

[0024] The cutout may provide a localized reduction in cross-sectional area of the insert, and/or a position in which stress concentrations may occur during loading of the insert. As such, deformation of the insert may be concentrated or intensified around the cutout.

[0025] Non-limiting examples of modes of deformation of the cutout include bending, shear, tension and compression. The insert may undergo elastic and/or plastic deformation, and/or may rupture at or around the cutout. Deformation of the cutout may allow the insert to absorb mechanical energy as the first and second portions of the insert rotate relative to one another. [0026] Provision of a cutout in at least the first portion of the insert may facilitate movement of the first portion relative to the second portion of the insert, and may even increase degrees of mobility therebetween.

[0027] Any or each of these effects may be augmented by providing multiple cutouts in the insert and/or in the first portion of the insert.

[0028] According to embodiments, the anchor may comprise a fixation element. The fixation element may be insertable in a through-hole. The insert may comprise the through-hole. The anchor may comprise multiple fixation elements. At least one, or even all fixation elements of the anchor may be insertable in one or multiple through- holes. The insert may comprise at least one, or even all of these through-holes.

[0029] The fixation element may allow the anchor to be held to another item. As a non-limiting example, the fixation element may allow the anchor to be held to the bracket of the connection assembly.

[0030] Insertability of the fixation element in a through-hole may allow an item presenting the through-hole to be inserted between the anchor and the item to which the anchor is held.

[0031] Provision of the through-hole in the insert may allow the insert to be positively located relative to the anchor and the item to which the anchor is held.

[0032] Provision of the anchor with multiple fixation elements may allow a rotational position of the anchor to be defined.

[0033] Insertability of multiple fixation elements of the anchor through-holes may allow the item(s) presenting the through-holes to be inserted between the anchor and the item to which the anchor is held.

[0034] Provision of the through-holes in the insert may allow the insert's rotational position relative to the anchor to be defined.

[0035] According to embodiments, at least one cutout may be arranged in at least one through-hole.

[0036] Such a configuration may allow the insert to be preferentially deformable at the through-hole in which the cutout is arranged. In this way, for example, the deformation(s) facilitated at the cutout may be concentrated at the through-hole. For example, it may be possible to encourage the insert to bend and/or rupture along a contour that intersects the through-hole. Such a configuration may allow possible stress-concentrating effects of the cutout to be combined or compounded with stress concentrations that occur around holes such as the through-hole. [0037] According to embodiments, the first portion of the insert may comprise a rib. The rib may be arranged within the first portion of the insert. The rib may be arranged entirely within the first portion of the insert.

[0038] The rib may serve many purposes, including any of the following, which are presented as non-limiting examples:

a. The rib may provide a surface for contacting the anchor. This contact may ensure that the anchor is accessible for connecting to a vehicle accessory, such as a safety barrier, for example. This contact may prevent the anchor from working loose from the item to which it is attached, such as the bracket, for example, over time, similar to the operation of a spring washer, for example. This contact may prevent the anchor from rattling during operation of the vehicle.

b. The rib may prevent entry of detritus and/or body parts, such as appendages, for example, and/or other foreign objects from gaining access to certain parts of the anchor and/or bracket and/or from bypassing the insert.

c. The rib may guide a vehicle accessory, such as a safety barrier, for example, onto or along the anchor during connection to/disconnection from the vehicle.

[0039] The presence of a rib may have the effect of strengthening the insert, at least in the portion where the rib is provided. To curtail such strengthening, the rib may be provided entirely in the first portion of the insert, meaning that the rib does not extend to the second portion. This may prevent the rib from interfering with deformation of the groove and/or cutout and/or from interfering with rotatability of the first portion of the insert relative to the second portion of the insert in response to the bracket bending.

[0040] Alternatively, if a rib is also provided in the second portion of the insert, the abovementioned interference with deformation and/or rotation may be curtailed by separating the rib in the first portion of the insert from the rib in the second portion of the insert by a groove therein or a gap therebetween.

[0041] According to embodiments, at least one cutout may be arranged in the rib.

[0042] Providing a cutout in a rib may reduce or eliminate the rib's ability to interfere with rotation of the first section of the insert relative to the second section of the insert. [0043] According to embodiments, at least a portion of at least a first through-hole may be arranged in the rib.

[0044] At least partially arranging a through-hole in the rib may allow the rib to deform along a contour that intersects the through-hole.

[0045] According to embodiments, at least one cutout may be arranged in both the rib and a through-hole. There may even be multiple such cutouts arranged in this manner. The cutout may be arranged in a through-hole of which at least a portion is arranged in the rib. This through-hole may be the first through-hole. If multiple portions of one or more through-holes are arranged in the rib, at least one of these through-holes, or even all of these through-holes, may present a cutout which is also arranged in the rib.

[0046] Such configurations may compound or combine the stress-concentrating effects of cutouts and holes at a specific location in the rib.

[0047] According to embodiments, at least a portion of at least a second through-hole may be arranged in the rib.

[0048] As such, the rib may extend between the first and second through-holes. When a first fixation element of the anchor is inserted in the first through-hole, and a second fixation element of the anchor is inserted in the second through-hole, the rib may be arranged to extend between these fixation elements.

[0049] According to embodiments, at least one of the one or more cutouts may be arranged in both the rib and each of the first through-hole and the second through- hole.

[0050] Such a configuration may reduce or even limit the rib's ability to interfere with rotation of the first section of the insert relative to the second section of the insert as the bracket bends.

[0051] According to embodiments, the bracket may be cantilevered.

[0052] As such, one extremity of the bracket may be used to attach the connection assembly to the vehicle, while another extremity of the bracket may be connected to the anchor.

[0053] According to embodiments, the first portion may be provided on a first surface. The insert may comprise the first surface. The first surface may be connected to a second surface. The insert may comprise the second surface. A thinned portion may be provided therebetween. The insert may comprise the thinned portion. The thinned portion may connect the first surface to the second surface. The thinned portion may be thinner than at least one, or even both of the first surface and the second surface. [0054] The thinned portion may be more deformable than the first surface and/or the second surface. This preferential deformability may limit the insert's interference with the bracket's ability to absorb mechanical energy by bending.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of aspects of the disclosure in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0056] Figure 1 shows an insert.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a connection assembly for connecting a safety barrier to a vehicle.

[0058] Figure 3 shows a safety barrier connected to a vehicle via a connection assembly.

[0059] Figure 4 shows interaction between an object and a safety barrier.

[0060] Figure 5 shows a connection assembly.

[0061] Figure 6 shows a connection assembly.

[0062] While aspects of the disclosure are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit aspects of the disclosure to the particular embodiment(s) described. On the contrary, the intention of this disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] As used in this disclosure and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this disclosure and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0064] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings. The detailed description and the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative aspects and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The illustrative aspects depicted are intended only as exemplary.

[0065] In Figure 4, a vehicle (represented by automobile seats 6 & 7) is shown undergoing an intense change in velocity. The intensity of the change in velocity may be equivalent in magnitude and/or duration to that which a vehicle undergoes during a collision with its surroundings. A non-limiting example of such a velocity change is set forth in ISO/DIN 27955:2010 (First edition, 2010-08-01). The automobile seats 6 & 7 are shown in folded configuration, and support parcel 12, which is presented herein as a non-limiting example of an object contained in the vehicle. Attached to the vehicle remainder of the vehicle by way of automobile seats 6 & 7 is a safety net 11.

[0066] In Figure 4 the safety net 11 is shown in a deployed configuration, whereas in Figures 2 & 3 the safety net 11 is shown in a retracted configuration. In Figure 3, the safety net 11 is represented as transparent so that the connection assemblies are visible.

[0067] Returning to Figure 4, because of the intense change in velocity of the vehicle, parcel 12 bears or will bear on safety net 11 according to vector 12V. Vector 12V may represent a velocity of parcel 12 relative to the vehicle, and/or an acceleration of parcel 12 relative to the vehicle, and/or even a force of parcel 12 relative to the vehicle. As parcel 12 bears on safety net 11, the attachment of safety net 11 to the seat 7 is subjected to a moment, represented by vector 11V.

[0068] This moment 11V is resisted at least in part by at least one connection assembly as described earlier herein. In Figure 2, it can be seen that safety net 11 is connected to seat 7 by two such connection assemblies. Additionally or alternatively (albeit not shown in the Figures), at least one connection assembly may also be provided to connect safety net 11 to seat 6, so that safety net 11 is attached to both of seats 6 8t 7.

[0069] As can be seen in Figure 2, the connection assembly may include a bracket 8. The bracket 8 may be used to fix the connection assembly to the vehicle. For example, in Figure 2, the bracket is fixed to the vehicle by being fixed to a frame of seat 7. Such fixation may be obtained by any suitable technique, including, but not limited to welding, riveting, bonding, and/or use of threaded fasteners.

[0070] As can be seen in Figure 2, the connection assembly may include an anchor 10. The anchor 10 may cooperate with a corresponding orifice of safety net 11. For example, in Figure 2, the orifice may be provided as a slot US on a housing of the safety net 11.

[0071] As can be seen in Figure 2, the anchor 10 may be connectable to the bracket 8. Thus, as cooperation between the safety net 11 and the anchor 10 causes the safety net 11 to be connected to the bracket 8, which is connected to the vehicle. To connect to the bracket 8, the anchor 10 may have fixation elements which cooperate with holes in the bracket. As a non-limiting example, these fixation elements may include a male/female threaded fastener pair, such as a bolt and a nut arranged such that the nut and the head of the bolt sandwich the bracket 8 and the remainder of the anchor 10 together. To facilitate connection of the safety net 11 to the vehicle, a hole may be provided the vehicle's interior and/or exterior detailing (if present) in which the connection assembly may be arranged. For example, in Figure 2, a hole is provided in the upholstery of seat 7, and the connection assembly is arranged in this hole.

[0072] As can be seen in Figure 2, the connection assembly may include an insert 9 arranged between the anchor 10 and the bracket 8. The insert 9 may limit the ability of foreign objects to access the bracket 8 and/or portions of the anchor 10. Moreover, if the connection assembly is arranged in a hole in the vehicle, the insert 9 may limit or prevent foreign objects from passing through the hole.

[0073] To that end, a peripheral region of the insert 9 may be provided that is destined to contact a surface in which the hole is formed. For example, in Figure 1, a peripheral region of the insert 9 includes a flange that can be brought into contact with this surface. Additionally or alternatively, this flange may also prevent degradation of the upholstery in the vicinity of the hole, by limiting opportunities for it to interact with foreign objects.

[0074] Without regard for the provision of the insert 9 with such a peripheral region, and without regard for the provision of the vehicle with a hole in which the connection assembly may be arranged, bracket 8 may undergo bending in response to moment 11V. As bracket 8 bends, mechanical energy is transferred away from parcel 12 and converted into mechanical work. This transfer and/or conversion of mechanical energy may prevent parcel 12 from becoming dangerous to vehicle structures and/or occupants, for example by preventing acceleration of parcel 12 relative to the vehicle, and/or may cause parcel 12 to cease being dangerous to vehicle structures/occupants, for example by decelerating parcel 12 relative to the vehicle.

[0075] Without regard for the particulars of ISO/DIN 27955:2010 (First edition, 2010- 08-01), the bending of bracket 8 may occur as an elastic deformation and/or as a plastic deformation. Following a plastic deformation, it may be necessary to replace the bracket 8, or even the entire connection assembly. Therefore, the bracket 8 is configured to have a yield strength that is as high as possible. However, an excessive yield strength for bracket 8 may cause anchor 10 to rupture or detach from bracket 8, which might consequently allow safety net 11 become locally detached from the vehicle. Therefore, to prevent the safety net 11 from disconnecting from the vehicle as it is borne upon by parcel 12, the bracket 8 may be configured to undergo a plastic deformation as it bends in response to a lower value of moment 11V than would be sufficient for causing anchor 10 to either detach from bracket 8 or rupture. In other words, the avoidance of rupture of anchor 10 or disconnection of anchor 10 from bracket 8 serves as an upper limit for an acceptable yield strength of bracket 8.

[0076] However, the presence of insert 9 is present between bracket 8 and anchor 10 may allow bracket 8 to resist plastic deformation in response to values of moment 11V which are sufficient to induce rupture of anchor 10 or disconnection of anchor 10 from bracket 8, by stiffening the overall connection assembly. This stiffening may appear, for example, as a portion of moment 11V being transferred to insert 9 via anchor 10 and/or bracket 8. To limit the influence, or even avoid such stiffening, insert 9 may include one or more weakening structures.

[0077] As can be seen in Figure 1, insert 9 may be provided with a groove 3, for example. Groove 3 is a non-limiting example of a weakening structure. The groove 3 may be configured to deform as the bracket 8 bends. The deformation of the groove 3 may include elastic and/or plastic deformation, and may even include bending and/or rupturing and/or shearing and/or compression and/or tension, as seen in Figures 5 & 6.

[0078] As seen in Figures 1 & 2, the groove 3 may be provided on a side of the insert 9 that is arranged to face the bracket 8. Such an arrangement may prevent foreign objects from collecting and/or catching in the groove 3. Since the groove 3 may be weaker than the portions 101, 102 of the insert 9 located to either side thereof, the insert 9 may be less likely to stiffen the connection assembly than an otherwise identical insert that lacks a groove 3.

[0079] As seen in Figures 1 8i 5, the groove 3 may be arranged along a contour that corresponds to at least a portion of an edge of the bracket 8. This arrangement may facilitate deformation of the groove 3 by the bracket 8 as the bracket 8 bends.

[0080] If one or more reinforcements 9R are presented on the insert 9 (such as can be seen in Figure 1, for example), the groove 3 may be configured to disrupt or transect one, some or even all of the reinforcements 9R intersecting whatever contour is traced by the groove 3.

[0081] As can be seen in Figure 1, the insert 9 may be provided with a thinned portion 2. A thinned portion 2 is a non-limiting example of a weakening structure. The thinned portion 2 may connect a first surface 100 of the insert 9 to a second surface 200 of the insert 9. The thinned portion 2 may be thinner than either of these surfaces 100, 200, or even than both of these surfaces 100, 200. Because the thinned portion 2 is thinner than at least a portion of its surroundings, it may provide a stress concentration, which at may cause at least a local weakening of the insert 9.

[0082] The thinned portion 2 may be configured to deform as the bracket 8 bends. Deformation of the thinned portion 2 may include elastic and/or plastic deformation, and may even include bending and/or rupturing and/or shearing and/or compression and/or tension.

[0083] For example, in Figure 5, bending of the bracket 8 has caused a movement of a portion 101 of the first surface 100 relative to the second surface 200. When the insert 9 comprises such a thinned portion 2, the movement shown in Figure 5 could be considered evidence of its deformation.

[0084] As can be seen in Figure 1, the thinned portion 2 may be provided on a side of the insert 9 that is arranged to face the bracket 8. Such an arrangement may prevent foreign objects from collecting and/or catching in the thinned portion 2.

[0085] If one or more reinforcements 9R are present on the insert 9 (such as can be seen in Figure 1, for example), the thinned portion 2 may be configured to disrupt or transect one, some or even all of the reinforcements 9R intersecting the thinned portion 2.

[0086] As can be seen in Figure 1, insert 9 may be provided with one or more through- holes 901, 902. A through-hole 901, 902 may be considered as a non-limiting example of a weakening structure because it may create a stress concentration in the insert 9. As bracket 8 bends, insert 9 may tend to deform in the vicinity of the through-hole

901, 902. If, as in Figure 1, multiple through-holes 901, 902 are provided in the insert 9, the insert 9 may tend to deform in the vicinity of just one of the through-holes 901,

902, or multiple of the through-holes 901, 902, or even all of the through-holes 901, 902.

[0087] Deformation of the insert 9 in a vicinity of a through-hole 901, 902 may include elastic and/or plastic deformation, and may even include bending and/or rupturing and/or shearing and/or compression and/or tension. For example, in Figures 1 & 6, it can be seen that the bending of bracket 8 has caused insert 9 to deform according to vector 8V in a vicinity of through-hole 901.

[0088] As can be seen in Figure 1, the insert 9 may be provided with a cutout 4, for example. A cutout 4 is a non-limiting example of a weakening structure. The cutout 4 may be configured to deform as the bracket 8 bends. Deformation of the cutout 4 may include elastic and/or plastic deformation, and may even include bending and/or rupturing and/or shearing and/or compression and/or tension. For example, as seen in Figure 6, the cutout 4 is deformed in at least one of these ways.

[0089] Moreover, a cutout 4 may define a portion of a contour along which the insert 9 may deform. It may even be possible to encourage deformability of the insert 9 in a particular region thereof by situating multiple cutouts 4 in relative proximity to one another.

[0090] As can be seen in Figure 1, the cutout 4 may be arranged in a through-hole 901, 902 of insert 9. As can be seen in Figure 1, a given through-hole 901, 902 may even be provided with multiple cutouts 4.

[0091] Provision of one or more cutouts 4 in a through-hole 901, 902 may compound or combine the stress-concentrating effects of the cutout(s) 4 and the through-hole

901, 902. Thus, the insert 9 may be weakened in the vicinity of the through-hole 901,902 much more than could be possible if the through-hole 901, 902 lacked the cutout(s) 4, and the cutout(s) 4 may weaken the insert 9 much more than could an identical cutout 4 arranged elsewhere in the insert 9.

[0092] Moreover, provision of one or more cutouts 4 in a given through-hole 901, 902 may influence a manner in which the insert 9 deforms in a vicinity of the given through-hole 901, 902 in response to bending of bracket 8.

[0093] For example, as seen in Figures 1 & 6, provision of multiple cutouts 4 in through-hole 901 may define a contour along which insert 9 bends in response to the bending of bracket 8. Thus, not only is insert 9 likely to bend in the vicinity of through- hole 901, but it is also likely to bend along a contour containing at least one cutout 4, or even multiple cutouts 4 provided therein.

[0094] As can be seen in Figure 1, insert 9 may be provided with multiple through- holes 901, 902. Cutouts 4 may be provided in just one of these through-holes 901,

902, or in multiple of these through-holes 901, 902, or even in all of these through- holes 901, 902, as seen in Figure 1. Moreover, one cutout 4 may be arranged in multiple through-holes 901, 902, for example as a cutout 4 arranged to link through- hole 901 to through-hole 902. Moreover, a given through-hole 901, 902 may even be provided with multiple cutouts 4, such as through-hole 901 seen in Figure 1.

[0095] As can be seen in Figure 1, the insert 9 may be provided with a notch 5. A notch 5 is a non-limiting example of a weakening structure. The notch 5 may introduce a stress concentration in insert 9, leading to weakening of the insert 9 at least in a vicinity of the notch 5. The notch 5 may be configured to deform as the bracket 8 bends. This deformation may include elastic and/or plastic deformation, and may even include bending and/or rupturing and/or shearing and/or compression and/or tension.

[0096] In the insert 9 shown in Figure 1, the notch 5 is provided in a peripheral region of the insert 9. The peripheral region of insert 9 may, under certain circumstances, and depending on how or where the connection assembly is installed in/on the vehicle, interact with the connection assembly's surroundings as the bracket 8 bends. By providing a notch 5 in this peripheral region of the insert 9, the insert 9 can be made to deform as it interacts with these surroundings during bending of the bracket 8. As a result, interference from this interaction with the ability of bracket 8 to absorb mechanical energy may be reduced or even eliminated.

[0097] As seen in Figures 1, 5 & 6, the notch 5 may be provided in a corner portion of the peripheral region of the insert 9, and may even be provided in a corner portion arranged near a fixed extremity of the bracket 8. As the bracket 8 bends, the peripheral region of insert 9 may be deformed in a direction extending away from this fixed extremity of the bracket 8. If, as in these Figures, the peripheral region comprises a flange for contacting the surroundings of the connection assembly, the notch 5 may facilitate deformation of the flange. In this way, the flange may be prevented from contributing significantly to a stiffening of the overall connection assembly.

[0098] As seen in Figure 1, a peripheral region of the insert 9 may be provided with a reinforced portion 701 and an unreinforced portion 702. The peripheral region of the insert 9 may be provided with the reinforced 701 and unreinforced 702 portions independently of the provision of a notch 5. When the bracket 8 is not bending or not bent, the unreinforced and reinforced portions 702, 701 may serve to prevent foreign objects from deforming the peripheral region of the insert 9.

[0099] As the bracket 8 bends, the peripheral region of the insert 9 may, under certain circumstances, and depending on how or where the connection assembly is installed in the vehicle, interact with the connection assembly's surroundings. By providing the unreinforced portion 702 where the peripheral region is anticipated to interact with the connection assembly's surroundings during bending of bracket 8, the effects of such interaction may be mitigated. In this way, stiffening of the overall connection assembly may be limited or avoided. [0100] By providing the reinforced portion 701 where the peripheral region is not anticipated to interact with the connection assembly's surroundings during bending of the bracket 8, unnecessary deformations of the peripheral region of the insert 9 by foreign objects may be limited or even avoided.

[0101] As can be seen in Figures 1-2 & 5-6, the unreinforced portion 702 may be arranged towards the fixed extremity of the bracket 8, since bending of the bracket 8 could be anticipated to urge the peripheral region of insert 9 towards the surface of the automobile seat 7 in this area. On the other hand, the reinforced portion 701, as can be seen in these same figures, may be arranged away from the fixed extremity of the bracket 8, since bending of the bracket 8 could be anticipated to urge the peripheral region of insert 9 away from the surface of the automobile seat 7 in this area. Thus, an interaction between the reinforced portion 701 and the surface of the automobile seat 7 might be avoided. The surface of the automobile seat 7 may be considered a non-limiting example of the connection assembly's surroundings.

[0102] Exemplary effects of these weakening can be seen in Figures 5 & 6, for example. These weakening structures may allow some of the insert 9 to bend and/or break as the bracket 8 bends. The bending and/or breaking of the insert 9 may occur as a first portion 101 of the insert 9 rotates relative to a second portion 102 of the insert 9.

[0103] This rotation may occur about an axis of bending 201, 202 of the bracket 8. Alternatively or additionally, this rotation may occur about an axis that is oblique or perpendicular to an axis of bending 201, 202 of the bracket 8. If the bracket 8 bends around multiple axes 201, 202, the rotation between the first 101 and second 102 portions of the insert 9 may be about none, one, multiple, or even all of the axes of bending 201, 202 of the bracket 8.

[0104] For example, in Figure 5, the first portion 101 of the insert 9 is shown rotated relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 about an axis 201. Axis 201 may correspond to an axis of bending of the bracket 8.

[0105] In Figure 6, for example, the first portion 101 of the insert 9 is shown as having rotated relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 about an axis that is oblique or perpendicular to axis 201. This rotation is shown as 8V.

[0106] If the first portion 101 of the insert 9 is rotatable relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 about multiple axes, these rotations may occur simultaneously, sequentially, or even independently of one another. [0107] As can be seen in Figure 1, the insert 9 may be provided with a rib 800. The rib 800 may extend obliquely or perpendicularly from the first surface 100 of the insert 9, as seen in Figure 2.

[0108] To prevent the rib 800 from stiffening the overall connection assembly, or to limit stiffening of the overall connection assembly due to provision of the rib 800 in the insert 9, the rib 800 may be provided entirely within the first portion 101 of the insert 9. In other words, the rib 800 would not extend beyond a boundary of the first portion

101 of the insert 9.

[0109] As can be seen in Figure 1, for example, rib 800 does not extend beyond groove 3, which separates the first portion 101 of the insert 9 from the second portion

102 of the insert 9. As such, rib 800 would not be able to stiffen the connection between the first and second portions 101, 102 of the insert 9.

[0110] Alternatively, if a rib were provided in the second portion 102 of the insert 9, it may be separated from a rib 800 provided in the first portion 101 of the insert 9. In this way, the ribs would not be able to stiffen the connection between the first portion 101 of the insert 9 and the second portion 102 of the insert 9.

[0111] Alternatively, even if the ribs in the first and second portions 101, 102 of the insert 9 were directly connected to one another, the degree to which they could contribute to stiffening the connection between the first portion 101 of the insert 9 and the second portion 102 of the insert 9 could be mitigated by providing one or more stress-concentrating features in the ribs at the boundary of the first and second portions 101, 102 of the insert 9. Non-limiting examples of stress-concentrating features include any the weakening features described earlier herein.

[0112] Although none of the remainder of the present disclosure is to be interpreted as being inapplicable to or incompatible with a rib that is not arranged within the first portion 101 of the insert 9, for the remainder of the present disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, the term "rib" and the associated reference number 800 is to be understood to refer exclusively to a rib arranged in the first portion 101 of the insert 9.

[0113] As can be seen in Figures 5 & 6, the rib 800 may contact the anchor 10. Such contact may prevent foreign objects from becoming lodged in between the anchor 10 and the insert 9 and/or bracket 8. As such, contact between the rib 800 and the anchor 10 may prevent foreign objects from interfering with the connection assembly's ability to connect to a safety net 11, or other vehicle accessory. [0114] Alternatively or additionally, as seen in Figures 1 & 2, the rib 800 may extend between a plurality of through-holes 901, 902 provided in the insert 9. The rib 800 may even at least partially surround one or more through-hole 901, 902 provided in the insert 9. When a rib 800 at least partially surrounds a through-hole 901, 902, the rib 800 may serve to guide an object as it is inserted therein.

[0115] For example, as seen in Figures 5 & 6, through-holes 901, 902 may insertably receive a plurality of fixation elements of the anchor 10 therein. Rib 800 may guide the fixation elements into the through-holes 901, 902 as they are inserted therein.

[0116] Alternatively or additionally, the rib 800, by at least partially surrounding a through-hole, may prevent foreign objects from contacting at least a portion of an object received insertably therein. For example, in Figures 5 & 6, the rib 800 may prevent contact between a foreign object and the fixation element of anchor 10 inserted in through-hole 901.

[0117] Alternatively or additionally, the rib 800, by extending between a plurality of through-holes 901, 902 provided in the insert 9, may prevent a foreign object from passing between a plurality of objects received insertably therein. For example, in Figures 5 & 6, rib 800 may prevent a foreign object from passing between the fixation elements of anchor 10 when it is attached to bracket 8. This may prevent foreign objects from becoming lodged between the fixation elements and/or from loosening the connection between the anchor 10 and the bracket 8.

[0118] Although the foregoing has used the term "surround" or "partially surround" to describe a case in which one feature, such as a through-hole 901, 902, for example, is arranged or partially arranged in another feature, such as the rib 800, for example, these terms may also be understood to describe, for example, the arrangement of one feature, such as the rib 800, for example, along a contour that at least partially encircles another feature, such as a through-hole 901, 902, for example.

[0119] Arranging, or at least partially arranging, a hole, such a through-hole 901, 902, for example, in a rib 800 may reduce the bending strength of the rib 800. This effect may be visible, for example in Figure 6, in which the rib 800 is shown bending where through-hole 901 is provided therein.

[0120] Additionally or alternatively, as can be seen in Figures 1, 5 & 6, one or more cut-outs 4 may be arranged in the rib 800. A cutout 4 arranged in the rib 800 may provide a stress concentration that may reduce the bending strength of the rib 800. This effect may be visible, for example in Figure 6, in which the rib 800 is shown bending where a cutout 4 is provided therein.

[0121] As seen in Figure 1, multiple cutouts 4, such as 2, 3, 4 or more, may be arranged in the rib 800 in proximity to one another. Proximity of multiple cutouts 4 to one another in the rib 800 may allow stress concentrating effects to be combined or compounded. This may further weaken the bending strength of the rib 800, compared to arranging only one cutout 4 in the rib 800 or compared to arranging multiple cutouts 4 in the rib 800 but in relative isolation from one another.

[0122] Additionally or alternatively, as seen in Figures 1 & 6, one or more cutouts 4 may be arranged in the rib 800 in proximity to a through-hole 901, 902 that is at least partially arranged in the rib 800. Proximity of a cutout 4 in the rib 800 to a hole, such as a through-hole 901, 902, for example, at least partially arranged in the rib 800 may allow stress concentrating effects of the cutout 4 and the hole to be combined or compounded. This may further weaken the bending strength of the rib 800, compared to arranging the cutout(s) 4 and the hole in relative isolation from one another.

[0123] For example, as seen in Figure 6, one or more cutouts 4 arranged in the rib 800 in proximity to through-hole 901 arranged in the rib 800 may weaken the rib 800 such that it is able to bend along a contour at least partially defined by the cutout(s) 4 and/or through-hole 901 as bracket 8 bends.

[0124] As mentioned earlier herein, a first portion 101 of the insert 9 may be rotatable relative to a second portion 102 of the insert 9 in response to the bracket 8 bending.

[0125] As can be seen in Figures 5 and/or 6, the first portion 101 of the insert 9 may be rotatable relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 by bending. This bending may be facilitated by one or more weakening features provided in the insert 9. Nonlimiting examples of weakening features have been described earlier herein.

[0126] For example, thinned portion 2 (visible in Figure 1) may facilitate the bending observed in Figure 5. The thinned portion 2 may facilitate this bending, for example, as at least part of a hinge connecting the first portion 101 of the insert 9 and the second portion 102 of the insert 9.

[0127] For example, one or more cutouts 4 (visible in Figure 1) may facilitate the bending observed in Figure 6. The cutout(s) 4 may facilitate this bending, for example, as at least part of a hinge connected to the first portion 101 of the insert 9.

[0128] As can be seen in Figure 6, multiple hinges may be provided in the insert 9, which may facilitate rotatability of the first portion 101 of the insert 9 relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 around a plurality of axes 201, 202, which may be oblique or perpendicular to one another.

[0129] For example, in Figure 6, the first portion 101 of insert 9 is shown rotated relative to the second portion 102 of insert 9 around each of a first axis 201 and a second axis 202. If, for example, a thinned portion 2 is provided, possibly arranged as seen in Figure 1, and one or more cutouts 4 are provided, possibly arranged as seen in Figure 1, a plurality of bending contours may be defined.

[0130] For example, thinned portion 2 may at least partially define a first bending contour, and the cutout(s) 4 may at least partially define a second bending contour. The first bending contour may encourage the first portion 101 of the insert 9 to move relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 with a rotative component of motion that is parallel to the first axis 201. The second bending contour may encourage the first portion 101 of the insert 9 to move relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9 with a rotative component of motion that is parallel to the second axis 202. In other words, due to the parallel axis theorem, the first bending contour may encourage rotation around the first axis 201 and the second bending contour may encourage rotation around the second axis 202.

[0131] In Figure 6, this second bending contour is shown as passing through through- hole 901. As explained earlier herein, the provision of a through-hole 901, 902 in the insert 9 may facilitate deformation of the insert 9 in a vicinity of the through-hole 901, 902. As explained earlier herein, the provision of one or more cutouts 4 in the insert 9 may facilitate deformation of the insert 9 in a vicinity of the cutout(s) 4. As can be seen in Figure 1, a cutout 4 may be provided in through-hole 901 at a position lying along a line segment (not shown) running substantially perpendicularly from thinned portion 2 to through-hole 901. Such an arrangement may help to align the second bending contour to be substantially perpendicular to the first bending contour.

[0132] As can be seen in Figure 1, through-hole 901 may be provided with multiple cutouts 4 lying along this line segment. As mentioned earlier, provision of multiple cutouts 4 in proximity to one another may cause their deformation-facilitating effects to be compounded. Providing multiple cutouts 4 along this line segment may therefore further help to align the second bending contour to be substantially perpendicular to the first bending contour.

[0133] Moreover, even if the through-hole 901 were not present, provision of these cutouts 4 on a line segment that is substantially perpendicular to the thinned portion 2 may cause the second bending contour to be aligned obliquely or perpendicularly to the first bending contour.

[0134] Independently of the provision of a thinned portion 2 in the insert 9 and/or one or more cutouts 4 in the insert 9, the bending of insert 9 visible in Figure 5 may cause (and/or be made possible by) one or more deformations occurring elsewhere in insert 9. In Figures 5 & 6, the first portion 101 of insert 9 is shown rotated relative to the second portion 102 of insert 9 and insert 9 is shown deformed along a region therebetween. As seen in Figure 1, a groove 3 may be provided in this region. Thus, the deformation of this region would also cause the deformation of the groove 3.

[0135] When a groove 3 (visible in Figure 1) is provided the insert 9, the groove 3 may deform and/or be deformed before and/or while the insert 9 bends during rotation of the first portion 101 of the insert 9 relative to the second portion 102 of the insert 9.

[0136] Although Figure 1 only shows groove 3 and thinned portion 2 as being arranged on or along a boundary of the first surface 100, either of these features, or even both of these features, may be provided to extend beyond the first surface 100 of the insert 9.

[0137] For example, groove 3 and/or thinned portion 2 may extend onto the second surface 200. In this way, the groove 3 and/or the thinned portion 2 may contribute to deformation of the second surface 200 as the insert 9 bends.

[0138] Although Figure 1 only shows groove 3 and thinned portion 2 as being provided in a central region of the insert 9, either of these features, or even both of these features, may be provided on the periphery of the insert 9.

[0139] For example, groove 3 and/or thinned portion 2 may extend to a peripheral region of the insert 9. In this way, the groove 3 and/or the thinned portion 2 may contribute to the deformability of the peripheral region.

[0140] Moreover, for example, the groove 3 and/or the thinned portion 2 may extend into and/or extend along one or more boundaries of an unreinforced portion 702 of the peripheral region of the insert 9. In this way, the groove 3 and/or the thinned portion 2 may contribute to the deformability of the unreinforced portion 702.

[0141] As seen in Figure 1, the rib 800 may substantially surround through-hole 901. When the insert 9 bends as shown in Figure 6, portions of the rib 800 arranged on substantially opposite sides of the through-hole 901 may be urged against the fixation element of anchor 10 inserted therein. To limit the degree to which this interaction might generate an increase in the overall stiffness of the connection assembly, these portions of the rib 800 may be provided with one or more cutouts 4. Thus, the fixation element of the anchor 10 may cause this/these cutout(s) 4 to spread open as the insert 9 bends along the second bending contour.

[0142] Alternatively or additionally, as seen in Figure 1, the rib 800 may substantially surround through-hole 902. When the insert 9 bends as shown in Figure 6, the rib 800 may be urged against the fixation element of anchor 10 inserted therein. To limit the degree to which this interaction might generate an increase in the overall stiffness of the connection assembly, the rib 800 may be provided with one or more cutouts 4 which is/are configured to spread open in response to such urging.

[0143] Although this behavior is not shown in the Figures, a weakening feature which facilitates one type of deformation of the insert 9 may also simultaneously and/or subsequently facilitate another type of deformation. For example, if any of the weakening features descried herein facilitates one of the deformations described herein, the given weakening feature may also simultaneously and/or subsequently facilitate another type of deformation. For example, bending and/or compression and/or shearing and/or tension may occur concurrently or sequentially with rupture. For example, the thinned portion 2 and/or the cutout(s) 4 may transition from facilitating bending of the insert 9 to facilitating rupture of the insert 9.

[0144] Rupturing of the insert 9 during bending of the bracket 8 may be desirable, for example, to prevent the insert and the safety net 11, or other vehicle accessory, from interacting with each other directly. For example, if the insert 9 were brought into contact with the safety net 11, the interaction might contribute to a stiffening of the overall connection assembly.

[0145] In the Figures, the insert 9 is shown as having the form of a bezel. In the field of vehicles, an object may be described as a "bezel" even if it lacks a central hole or window through which an object may be accessed. The bezel may be attachable to the vehicle directly. As the bezel deforms, a portion thereof may even remain attached to the vehicle. Thus, it may be possible to prevent the bezel from interacting directly with the safety barrier 11.

[0146] Moreover, the bezel may rupture so that a first section thereof, carried by the bracket 8, for example, is separated from a second section thereof, which may even be disconnected from the remainder of the connection assembly, for example. Thus, interactions between this second section and its surroundings may not cause an increase in the stiffness of the overall connection assembly. [0147] As seen in the Figures, the bezel may comprise a basin. The basin may comprise a flanged rim. A floor of the basin may comprise the first surface 100. A wall of the basin may comprise the second surface 200. When a rib 800 is present, the rib 800 may even extend to a wall of the basin. The basin may be arranged on the bracket 8 such that the first and second surfaces 100, 200 of the insert 9 are urged towards each other as the bracket 8 bends.

[0148] As the bracket 8 bends, the basin may separate into multiple sections. For example, in Figure 6, the basin is shown as having separated into two sections. Parts of the first and second surfaces 100, 200 may remain attached to the bracket 8, while remainders of these surfaces may remain attached to the vehicle itself directly.

[0149] As seen in Figure 6, for example, this separation may cause the first surface 100 to rupture such that the first portion 101 of the insert 9 is carried on the bracket, while the second portion 102 of the insert 9 remains on the section attached directly to the vehicle.

[0150] Returning now to Figure 4, it can be seen that safety net 11 may also be attached to another portion of the vehicle, such as a ceiling of the vehicle (not shown for clarity purposes). A connection assembly as described earlier herein may be suitable for attaching the safety net 11 to this other portion of the vehicle. Although this arrangement is consistent with connection of an accessory to an interior of the vehicle, the connection assembly may additionally or alternatively be suitable for attaching an accessory to an exterior of a vehicle.

[0151] A seat of a vehicle, such as automobile seats 6 & 7, for example, is presented as a non-limiting example of a portion of a vehicle to which an accessory may be connected. For example, the connection assembly may be used to attach an accessory to other portions of a vehicle than a seat. For example, the connection assembly may be used to attach an accessory to a ceiling or frame or chassis of a vehicle. Moreover, use of the connection assembly to attach an accessory to the seat of a vehicle does not necessarily preclude use of a connection assembly to attach an accessory to any other portion of the vehicle, including those listed herein.

[0152] Although the above-described embodiments have been presented in the context of preventing a parcel 12 from becoming dangerous, they are not to be considered as being limited to such an application. Rather, a parcel 12 is merely presented as a non-limiting example of an object contained in a vehicle which may become dangerous during intense changes in velocity of the vehicle. [0153] Moreover, an object, such as parcel 12, for example, need not be contained within the interior of a vehicle in order to risk becoming dangerous. For example, a vehicle may contain an object without the object being located within the vehicle's interior, such as in the bed of a pickup truck, for example.

[0154] Moreover, the object may simply be contained on the vehicle, such as with cargo on a trailer, for example, or even on a roof of a vehicle, for example. The disclosed embodiments may be suitable for preventing objects arranged in this manner from becoming dangerous, by allowing accessories, such as a safety net 11, for example, to be attached to the vehicle's exterior.

[0155] Although the above-described embodiments have been presented in the context of an automobile, they are not limited to such an application. An automobile is presented as a non-limiting example of a vehicle. The vehicle may potentially be any kind of vehicle, including but not limited those enumerated earlier herein.

[0156] Although the above-described embodiments have been presented in the context of preventing an object from becoming dangerous as a vehicle decelerates, they are not to be considered as being limited to such an application. Rather, deceleration is presented as a non-limiting example of a change in velocity of a vehicle.

[0157] Although the deceleration of the vehicle is presented as occurring during a collision, the above-described embodiments are not limited to such an application. Rather, a collision with an object in the surroundings is merely presented as a non^¬ limiting example of a situation which can cause an intense change in velocity of a vehicle. This change may affect the vehicle's linear and/or rotational velocity.

[0158] Moreover, the above-described embodiments may be applicable for use in preventing an object from becoming dangerous as a vehicle undergoes any number of intense changes in velocity. Intense changes in velocity may arise during evasive maneuvers of the vehicle, for example, and/or even during demanding operational regimes. Non-limiting examples of evasive maneuvers include maneuvers made to avoid a collision with an object in the vehicle's surroundings. Non-limiting examples of demanding operational regimes include sport or combat or emergency operation. A vehicle may undergo intense changes in velocity during changes in heading and/or roll and/or pitch, for example. Moreover, an intense change in velocity need not necessarily affect the entirety of the vehicle.

[0159] Although the above-described embodiments have been presented as cooperating with a safety net, they are not to be considered as being limited to such an application. A safety net 11 is presented as a non-limiting example of a safety barrier. Moreover, a safety barrier is presented as a non-limiting example of a vehicle accessory.

[0160] Although the described embodiments were provided as different exemplary embodiments, it is envisioned that these embodiments are combinable or, when not conflicting, the features recited in the described embodiments may be interchangeable.

[0161] Throughout the description, including the claims, the term "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one" unless otherwise stated. In addition, any range set forth in the description, including the claims should be understood as including its end value(s) unless otherwise stated. Specific values for described elements should be understood to be within accepted manufacturing or industry tolerances known to one of skill in the art, and any use of the terms "substantially" and/or "approximately" and/or "generally" should be understood to mean falling within such accepted tolerances.

[0162] Although the present disclosure herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present disclosure.

[0163] It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A connection assembly comprising an insert (9) arranged between a bracket (8) and an anchor (10) attached to said bracket (8), wherein a first portion (101) of the insert (9) is rotatable with respect to a second portion (102) of the insert (9) in response to the bracket (8) bending around a first axis (201).

2. The connection assembly of claim 1, wherein the first portion (101) of the insert (9) is rotatable with respect to the second portion (102) of the insert (9), in response to the bracket (8) bending around a second axis (202), perpendicular to the first axis (201).

3. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-2, wherein the bracket (8) is configured to deform a groove (3), provided in the insert (9) between the first portion (101) of the insert (9) and the second portion (102) of the insert (9), by bending.

4. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-3, wherein a peripheral region of the insert (9) comprises:

a notch (5), and/or

a reinforced portion (701) connected to an unreinforced portion (702), the reinforced portion (701) presenting a higher stiffness than the unreinforced portion (702).

5. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-4, wherein the bracket (8) is configured to deform one or more cutouts (4), provided in at least the first portion (101) of the insert (9), by bending.

6. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-5, wherein one or more fixation elements of the anchor (10) is insertable in one or more through-holes (901, 902) of the insert (9).

7. The connection assembly of claims 5 & 6, wherein at least one of the one or more cutouts (4) of the insert (9) is arranged in at least one of the one or more through- holes (901, 902) of the insert (9).

8. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-7, wherein the first portion (101) of the insert (9) comprises a rib (800) arranged entirely within the first portion (101) of the insert (9).

9. The connection assembly of claims 5 8i 8, wherein at least one of the one or more cutouts (4) of the insert (9) is arranged in the rib (800) of the insert (9).

10. The connection assembly of claims 6 8i 8, wherein at least a portion of at least a first through-hole (901) of the insert (9) is arranged in the rib (800) of the insert (9).

11. The connection assembly of claim 10, wherein at least one of the one or more cutouts (4) of the insert (9) is arranged in both the rib (800) of the insert (9) and the at least a first through-hole (901) of the insert (9).

12. The connection assembly of claim 10, wherein at least a portion of at least a second through-hole (902) of the insert (9) is arranged in the rib (800) of the insert (9).

13. The connection assembly of claim 12, wherein at least one of the one or more cutouts (4) of the insert (9) is arranged in both the rib (800) of the insert (9) and each of the first through-hole (901) of the insert (9) and the second through-hole (902) of the insert (9).

14. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-13, wherein the bracket (8) is cantilevered.

15. The connection assembly of any of claims 1-14, wherein the first portion (101) of the insert (9) is provided on a first surface (100) of the insert (9), the first surface (100) of the insert (9) is connected to a second surface (200) of the insert (9), and a thinned portion (2) of the insert (9) is provided therebetween, the thinned portion (2) of the insert being thinner than at least one of the first surface (100) of the insert (9) and the second surface (200) of the insert (9).