Patent · US Active

Universal structural joint for automotive frames

US7488022B2 · kind B2 · utility

30Cited by
11References
20Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJan 8, 2007
Grant dateFeb 10, 2009
Priority date
Expiry dateJan 8, 2027

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D25/06
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A structural joint configuration is formed in an automotive frame in which the frame members are bent into an angular orientation and joined together to form a structural joint in the automotive frame in which loads imposed on any of the frame members forming the joint will be transferred to and shared with the other frame members in the joint. The structural joint can be configured with as many legs as needed to conform to the number of frame members entering the joint. The frame members can be formed with any cross-sectional shape and from any conventional material or combination of materials. Joining the frame members at the structural joint can be accomplished by welding or by applying adhesives. Load distribution through the frame members forming the structural joint enables the joint to withstand an application of high loads without major cracks or bending at the structural joint.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.