1. Mass and Motion (Energy)
Typical devices used to convert kinetic energy:
1. Mechanical Stops
(Hard Stops)
2. Springs and Bumpers
3. Dashpots
(Cylinder Cushions)
4. Deceleration Valves
All these devices convert the kinetic energy via
work done, heat, sound or stored potential energy.

2. Velocity vs. Stroke (Stopping Distance)
Linear Deceleration
Velocity vs. Stroke (Stopping Distance)
Mechanical
Stop
Spring
Velocity
Velocity
Stroke
Stroke
Dashpot
Linear
Deceleration
Velocity
Velocity
Stroke
Stroke

3. Reaction Forces Force vs. Stroke (Stopping distance) Mechanical Spring
Dashpot
Linear
Deceleration
Force
Force
Stroke
Stroke
The amount of energy under each curve is equal.
The distribution of the reaction forces over the stroke is different.
The lowest overall reaction force is achieved through linear deceleration.

4. Time vs. Stroke (Stopping Distance)
Deceleration Time
Time vs. Stroke (Stopping Distance)
The amount of energy is equal.
The time taken to go through
stroke is different.
Time
Mechanical
Stop
Spring
Linear
Deceleration
Dashpot

5. Dashpots Dashpots, including cylinder cushions,
use a single orifice to control fluid
flow. This produces a high
impact force. Rapid
deceleration occurs at
the start of stroke, followed
by a long period of gradual
deceleration.
Accumulator
Piston and Rod
Orifice
Force
Stroke
Velocity
Stroke