convertible safety measures for roll-over

[zimu]

question for those who know a bit about convertibles.

i'm wondering about the little metal things that numerous convertibles have over the head rest (for e.g., http://www.autofan.com/images/newcars/2001_Audi_TT_Convertible_02.jpg the silver rounded things over the headrest.)

a) what are they called?

b) do they serve any functional purpose?

i always thought of them as being protection in case the car flipped over, so you wouldn't have your head smashed in. but then i see for e.g. the bmw 3 series don't have them, and i doubt that bmw wouldn't add them in if it meant doing so little for so much added protection.

whats the deal?

 

[zimu]

wow, please- everyone don't respond at once!

 

[OrByte]

ok ummm

your linkie no workie

 

[scorpmatt]

looks i should think, not sure though

 

[scorpmatt]

Originally posted by: OrByte
ok ummm

your linkie no workie

take the dash off the end of it

 

[Viper GTS]

In most cars the front windshield + pillars provide all the support, & it should be able to support the weight of the car.

I believe the mini roll cage things are primarily cosmetic on modern vehicles.

Viper GTS

 

[radioouman]

probably looks on that car, but there are some cars that have a pop up bar to protect occupents in a roll over. Some cars are designed so that the trunk is high enough that the top of the windshield and the trunk lid will rest on the ground in the event of a rollover.

 

[batmanuel]

The new Bettle Convertible has a couple of spring loaded posts that pop up in the rear to protect you in a rollover. Features page at their website. Roll your mouse over the Rollover Support text to see how it works. The centeer of gravity is so low on convertibles that the odds of a rollover are pretty slim unless you drive the car off a cliff.