The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 26, 1994
Filed:
Jun. 14, 1993
Audi A.G., Ingolstadt, DE;
Abstract
An improved bearer joint in a vehicle bodywork consisting of extruded light metal bearer members connected together by cast metal joining elements. According to the invention, an end portion of at least one bearer member is received within a concave region of at least one joining element and is connected thereto at two connection points on either side of the coverage region so that the portion of the bearer member between the connection points and overlying the concave region acts as a tension member or steadying strut depending on the direction of the load. In a preferred embodiment, the improved bearer joint is the node connector type joining element located at the middle of the A post where the downwardly and obliquely oriented forward roof post joins the substantially vertically upright forward door post. The invention provides a rigid connection with high expansion and energy absorption capabilities, thereby strengthening an otherwise critical weak point in the vehicle roof structure.