LANDING CUSHION FOR FALLING OBJECTS

A device for decelerating an object in motion is provided with a first cushion body that is positioned within the path of travel of the object. This is a hollow, flexible and inflatable cushion provided with sidewalls, a supported surface, and a first surface. The supported and first surfaces are opposed, spaced apart and are disposed transversely of the path when the first cushion has been inflated. A hollow flexible and inflatable second cushion body is disposed in advance of the first cushion and has an impact surface and a second surface. The second cushion is supported by the first surface of the first cushion and has a higher gas pressure than the first cushion. The first surface of the first cushion and the impact surface of the second cushion are movable inwardly of the first and second cushions, respectively, when the bodies have been inflated, in response to the force of an object thereagainst. However, the second body is constructed to impede the rapid escape of gas upon the inward movement, thereby becoming relatively firm when the object strikes the impact surface. Thus, the area over which the force of the object is applied is greater on the first surface of the first cushion than the force area applied at the impact surface of the second cushion. Due to the relatively large force area, the gas pressure within the first body necessary to decelerate the object is decreased.