Patent ID: 6474722
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
A structural reinforcement member for structurally reinforcing a surface portion of an automotive vehicle frame, comprising:a carrier adapted for placement adjacent the surface portion of the automotive vehicle frame, the carrier having a front surface and opposing sides extending away from the front surface wherein the front surface is configured to oppose the surface portion of the automotive vehicle frame and the front surface has a surface area greater than either one of the opposing sides and wherein the carrier includes a reinforced protrusion on the front surface, the protrusion configured for insertion into an aperture in the surface portion of the vehicle frame; and a load distributing medium coating a substantial portion of the front surface, the load distributing medium being configured to expand upon activation and thereafter to cure thereby hardening the load distributing medium, wherein: i) the load distributing medium adheres the carrier to the surface portion of the vehicle frame; ii) the surface portion of the vehicle frame is structurally reinforced with the carrier having the increase in the structural strength due at least in part to the load distributing medium; iii) the opposing sides of the carrier are substantially free of any contact with the load distributing medium; and iv) the load distributing medium is configured to primarily contact the surface portion of the vehicle frame without contacting other portions of the vehicle frame.