The English name "bumper" for the bumper originates from its functional characteristics. The root "bump" means to protrude or collide, and the suffix "er" denotes an object that performs an action, so the literal translation of the whole word is "buffer". This name intuitively reflects its core function: when a vehicle has a minor collision, it absorbs impact energy through its protruding structure to protect the main body of the vehicle and the safety of passengers. In the early days, due to the low speed and small number of cars, bumpers were not standard equipment. They gradually became popular after being invented by the British Frederick Simms in 1901. Modern bumpers have developed into multi-functional components. In addition to buffering and protection, they also need to take into account aerodynamic design, pedestrian protection and body styling beautification. In terms of materials, engineering plastics or lightweight metals are mostly used to balance portability and durability. It is worth noting that the protection mechanism of the bumper is not the harder the better. Its scientific design needs to disperse the impact force through controllable deformation, which is different from the perception of some consumers that "the harder the safer". With the evolution of technology, smart bumpers have begun to integrate new technologies such as sensors to further expand the safety boundary.
