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:
Oct. 30, 2001
Filed:
May. 18, 2000
George A Konstantakopoulos, Madison Heights, MI (US);
DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Auburn Hills, MI (US);
Abstract
A space efficient, structurally rigid, integrated muffler and bumper assembly is provided. The muffler and bumper assembly comprises an extruded skeleton, an energy absorbing bumper, and a bumper fascia. The extruded skeleton is formed such that internal cavities or passage flow chambers exist. In turn, the walls of the flow chambers maintain a plurality of holes, allowing for passage of exhaust gases between chambers. The extruded skeleton also has an inlet and outlet for exhaust gas flow. Arms having tabs on the ends thereof extend from the top and bottom of the extruded skeleton such that the energy absorbing bumper, which maintains recesses in the top and bottom portions, snap-fits with the extruded skeleton. The extruded skeleton/bumper assembly is welded or otherwise mechanically fastened to the vehicle frame rails. The bumper fascia is introduced over the extruded skeleton/bumper assembly generally masking the assembly with the overall vehicle design. Both the energy absorbing bumper and the bumper fascia have bores formed therein to receive the exhaust outlet of the extruded skeleton.