Hollow torque rod for a closure panel
US8540305B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 23, 2011 |
| Grant date | Sep 24, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 7, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2900/546
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A compartment includes a plurality of side walls and a floor configured to define a storage area. The compartment also includes a panel operatively connected to the floor or to at least one of the plurality of side walls. The panel is configured to selectively expand and restrict access to the storage area. The compartment additionally include a torque rod having a wall thickness, a hollow interior, a first end fixed relative to the storage area and a second end fixed relative to the panel. The torque rod is configured to store energy by being twisted when the panel is pivoted in a first direction relative to the storage area and release the stored energy when the panel is pivoted in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction to thereby assist operation of the panel. A vehicle employing such an enclosure is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.