Tubular support for shock tower in automobiles
US7210733B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 1, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 30, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D21/11
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A shock tower support structure utilizes a hydroformed tubular member that extends horizontally along the upper vehicle frame rail and wraps around the front edge and upper portion of the shock tower assembly to join into the lower vehicle frame rail. The shock tower support member is welded to the upper vehicle frame and also to the lower vehicle frame. The loading of the spot welds is in shear to provide improved stiffness in the support of the vehicle shock tower assembly. The support structure also provides increased crash resistance for front impacts into the vehicle. The front apron in conventional shock tower supports can be replaced by a plastic panel that has associated components pre-assembled thereon to be installed into the vehicle as a module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.