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. 01, 2003
Filed:
Jan. 05, 2001
Natalino Broccardo, Northville, MI (US);
Randy T Stratman, Waterford, MI (US);
Nathan C Burns, Dearborn, MI (US);
DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Auburn Hills, MI (US);
Abstract
A structural reinforcing member is provided to improve localized stiffness in frames, rails, body cavities or other such areas found in automotive, marine or aviation applications. The reinforcing member includes a frame having a first and second arm extending laterally therefrom. The frame is configured to be securely positioned in the area of interest. A thermally expandable material is disposed on the arms such that a gap is formed between the thermally expandable material of the first arm and the adjacent second arm prior to expansion. A bake process allows the expandable material to expand around the immediate area, thereby providing localized stiffness and support.