A.o. Smith Corporation

R. J. Tower Corporation

Stephen L Kretschmer

Phillip C Ruehl

Richard J Behrmann

Thomas O Minor

Michael J Erickson

A method of connecting elements in a vehicle frame includes fixing the elements in a desired orientation, positioning dies to surround a portion of each element, and introducing material into the die cavity thereby casting a node around the elements.

Cast node and method for casting nodes

A method for forming a structural member, the method comprising the steps of placing a first sheet member having a length dimension greater than a width dimension in a press, placing a second sheet member having a length dimension greater than a width dimension in the press, the second member only partially overlapping the first member, the first member only partially overlapping the second member, and the direction of the length dimension of the second member being angled relative to the direction of the length dimension of the first member, and closing the press to shape the first member and the second member.

Method of manufacturing engine cradles

In a front wheel drive vehicle, a rear suspension system is provided for non-driven non-steered rear wheels. A twist beam axle extends along a transverse horizontal line between the rear wheels, and a pair of coil springs extend along respective spaced parallel axes intersecting the noted transverse horizontal line. A stabilizer torsion bar extends along the transverse horizontal line of the twist beam axle. Each spring seat assembly is attached between its respective wheel spindle mounting plate and the twist beam axle such that the wheel spindle mounting plate is spaced outwardly of the twist beam axle. The stabilizer torsion bar extends between the spring seat assemblies and is attached to each at a point spaced inwardly of the respective wheel spindle mounting plate and inboard of the respective coil spring. Upper and lower mating shell structure is provided for the spring seat assemblies, including an upper surface with an opening therein through which the respective coil spring extends. The mating shells have overlapped surfaces providing sections of increased thickness stock. Fishmouth brackets strengthen the joint between the spring seat assembly and the twist beam axle, and reinforcing brackets have weldments aligned with fishmouth bracket weldments, providing additional stiffness along fatigue areas.

Growing community of inventors

Mequon, WI, United States of America

Stephen L Kretschmer