Inventors:
Robert M Schoen - West Bloomfield MI
Rao Nuthalapati - Auburn Hills MI
Pamela E Larson - Rochester MI
Nicol M Erickson - Clawson MI
Haili Zhou - Rochester Hills MI
Assignee:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation - Auburn Hills MI
International Classification:
B60J 700
US Classification:
296188, 296209, 296187, 29620302, 29620303
Abstract:
As automotive vehicle frame can be strengthened by reinforcing the tubular frame elements that form the side door openings. A three dimensional core element and rigid foam can be incorporated into each tubular frame element to achieve a significant increase in the frame bending strength, without adding appreciable weight to the vehicle frame.