Patent ID: 9150001
Filing Date: 2015-10-06
Classification: B29C,B32B,B62D

Abstract:
1. A structural reinforcement for an automotive vehicle, comprising: i) an elongated metallic localized reinforcement having a longitudinal axis and being located in contact with a base reinforcing portion, the base reinforcing portion is an injection molded part having an interconnected network of ribs; ii) an expandable epoxy-based material at least partially covering the base reinforcing portion, the expandable material being a material that experiences expansion upon exposures to temperatures of between about 148.89° C. to about 204.44° C. for allowing the material to be activated by heat from an automotive painting or coating operation and foam to a volume of at least 50% higher relative to the original unexpanded volume, and to exhibit a post-activation ductility ratio that is greater than about 2.0 and wherein the localized reinforcement is made of a material that has a higher tensile strength and higher ductility than the material of the base reinforcing portion; and wherein the localized reinforcement has a generally unshaped profile in cross-section relative to its longitudinal axis, a curvature along its longitudinal axis and a wall thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, and wherein the localized reinforcement is insert-molded such that material of the base reinforcing portion is applied over and around the localized reinforcement, while still having one or more exposed surfaces that are not concealed by the base reinforcing portion.