Electroplated thermoplastic automotive grille having improved flexibility
US5452931A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 30, 1993 |
| Grant date | Sep 26, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R19/52
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An automobile grille which is selectively chromium plated so as to promote the flexural properties of the grille. By optimizing the flexural properties of the grille, the grille is more readily capable of withstanding a frontal impact without sustaining permanent damage. Preferably, the chromium plating is selectively deposited on exposed surfaces of the grille so as to minimize the detrimental effect which a hard and brittle chromium plating has on the flexural modulus of the grille. As a result, the grille is more readily able to flex under the load of an impact directed into the grille from the front of the automobile. In addition, chromium plating is deposited on surfaces of the grille which predominantly see compressive loading, so as to reduce the likelihood that the chromium plating will crack in tension. The grille is particularly suitable for mounting flush with an impact-absorbing bumper, such that the grille is capable of resiliently deflecting with the stroke of the bumper.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.