Abstract: The composite sine-wave beam is a typically function-integrated st ructure for energy absorption application. The crushing peak stress and the progressive mean st ress associated to the specific energy absorption ratio are critical for the function. Both of them are cont rolled significantly by the trigger system embedded in the beam. In this study , three t rigger systems were designed and manufactured including an end bore weakened , chamfer weakened and gradient weakened beam , respectively. The crush experiment s and the macro- and micro st ructural studies showed that the different t riggers greatly affected the peak stress , the mean st ress and the crush mechanism. The end chamfer weakened trigger exhibited the relatively best energy absorption behavior characterized by the peak st ress , mean st ress and the specific energy absorption ratio.