Patent ID: 8046918
Filing Date: 2011-11-01
Classification: B62D,F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method for reinforcing a closed hollow beam with a sleeve to prevent deformation of the beam when a component is attached to the beam with a fastener, the sleeve having a first tang and a second tang, the beam having a wall, a hollow portion enclosed by the wall, a first opening in a first side of the wall, a second opening in a second side of the wall that is spaced apart from and aligned with the first opening, the first and second openings each having a supporting portion and a fastener receiving portion that is narrower than the supporting portion, the method comprising: inserting the sleeve into the hollow portion of the beam through the supporting portion of the first opening; positioning the sleeve to be substantially aligned with the fastener receiving portion of the first and second openings; supporting the sleeve by oppositely extending the first and second tangs outside of the supportive portions of the first and second openings beyond the hollow portion of the beam; attaching the component to the beam by inserting the fastener through the fastener receiving portion of the first opening, the sleeve, and the fastener receiving portion of the second opening; and mounting the sleeve on the insertion tool such that the insertion tool grasps the sleeve; and inserting the sleeve into the hollow portion of the beam using the insertion tool.