An impact-absorbing, load-limiting connection device includes a first connection
structure, a second connection structure, a guiding mechanism, and at least one
impact-absorbing, load-limiting sacrificial element disposed between the first
and second connection structure. At least one of the first and second connection
structures is moveable with respect to the other in a predetermined direction of
movement corresponding to an anticipated main impact direction. The guiding mechanism
is configured to guide at least one of the first and second connection structures
along the direction of movement and includes at least one transverse force-absorbing
guide element configured to absorb a force in a direction transverse to the direction
of movement. The sacrificial element is disposed as to be uncoupled from a transverse
load path of the transverse force-absorbing guide element, and is configured to
be deformed and destroyed by a relative movement between the first and second connection
structures upon application of predetermined maximum load. In addition, a rotary-wind
aircraft, especially a helicopter, that includes at least one such connection device.
