A-pillar structure for an automotive vehicle
US7344186B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 8, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 18, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 8, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D25/04
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An A-pillar structure on an automotive vehicle is manufactured from a formed tubular member that replaces the conventional inner and inner reinforcement members. The door opening panel is formed with conventional flanges that are welded or adhered to the tubular member to provide a conventional uniform surface against which the windshield and front door seals can be supported. The door opening panel flanges can be welded by one-sided welding techniques, such as laser stitch welding, to the tubular member. As an option, the movement of the front door seal from the ab flange to the front door can provide an opportunity to form the tubular member with a still larger cross-section for enhanced strength. The distance dimension spanning the opposing flanges to define the standard arc for maintaining binocular vision is retained while increasing the strength of the A-pillar due to the enlarged cross-sectional configuration provided by the tubular member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.