Dual cell body side rail for automotive vehicles
US7758107B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jul 20, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D25/06
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A body side rail construction for an automotive vehicle is formed in a dual cell configuration. A reversed C-shaped channel is welded to the closed section of the conventional roof side rail member to enable the body side rail member to be a smaller section that is less susceptible to buckling as the body side rail member transfers load to the front and rear corner pillars. The C-shaped cross-sectional configuration presents advantages for manufacturing as it can be shaped to provide the attaching brackets and horns for mounting the front header, roof bow, and rear header members to the body side rail without the addition of individual end items to serve this function. From a shipping density standpoint, this design gives maximum structure while maintaining good rack density that enables relatively straight parts to be nested together while still providing the increased section strength required for enhanced roof performance.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.