Vehicle structural member for improved lateral loading
US11220296B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 16, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jan 11, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 19, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D27/065
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Disclosed is an apparatus for improving lateral crash pushing and distributing crash energy within a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a first frame cross member extending laterally between a left hand frame rail and a right hand frame rail of a vehicle, and a second frame cross member, aft of the first frame cross member, extending laterally between the left hand frame rail and the right hand frame rail. The apparatus further comprises an outrigger projecting outward laterally from the first frame cross member and an impact member selected from the left hand frame rail or right hand frame rail; and a connection arm projecting diagonally from a distal end of the outrigger to a connection point on the second frame cross member, beneath the impact member, such that when an impact force travels longitudinally into the outrigger, the impact force is distributed to both the first frame cross member through the outrigger and the second frame cross member through the connection arm.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.