Patent ID: 7441832
Filing Date: 2008-10-28
Classification: B60R,B62D

Abstract:
1. A roof for a vehicle, comprising: a pair of opposing side rails; a series of cross members extending between said pair of opposing side rails; an outer roof panel attached to said opposing side rails and said cross members; an inner liner panel attached to said opposing side rails and said cross members; said outer roof panel and said inner liner panel defining a cavity with a predetermined height; a pneumatic reinforcement system, comprising: an air bladder; an inflator device inflating said air bladder; at least one sensor detecting a crash condition and actuating said inflator device; and a rigid mounting member attached to at least one of said series of cross members and housing said air bladder; said mounting member and said inflated air bladder strengthening the body structure; said air bladder sized for inflating within said cavity up to said predetermined height of said cavity; said mounting member and said air bladder strengthening at least one of said outer roof panel, said opposing side rails, and said cross members; said inner liner panel separating said cavity from a passenger cabin of the vehicle.