Patent ID: 6164716
Filing Date: 2000-12-26
Classification: B60J

Abstract:
An energy absorbing body panel assembly of a vehicle, comprising:an inner member having a desired inner area, the inner area defined by a perimeter including a top, a bottom, and sides;an outer member having a desired outer area, the outer area defined by a perimeter including a top, a bottom, and sides, wherein the inner member and the outer member are positioned with respect to one another such that the tops, the bottoms, and the sides are aligned with one another;an intermediate member positioned between said inner and outer members, said intermediate member extending from the top to the bottom and from side to side of said inner and outer members, said intermediate member has its top and bottom secured with said outer member top and bottom; said intermediate member defining an uninterrupted space extending from the top to the bottom and from side to side of said intermediate and outer members; anda structural material positioned in said space between said outer member and said intermediate member for dissipating impact energy wherein said structural material fills substantially the entire space between the intermediate and outer members.