Abstract: A rocker joint assembly provides adjustability in the Z-axis and Y-axis of a body-in-white structure. The individual components of the assembly includes a vertical pillar and a rocker member that cooperate with a main beam of a frame. The several components can be formed from extrusions or sheet product.

Abstract: The invention provides a vehicle frame joint structure that is used in a ladder frame structure and in space frame type structures. The joint includes at least a first member, a second member, and a third member extending thereinbetween. Each of these three members has an upper surface, a lower surface, and opposed side walls. The third member, which is adapted to extend thereinbetween has an upper surface that extends beyond its opposed side walls and lower surface. Each of the first and second members has therein a relief adapted to receive the third member such that the third member's extending upper surface is in close relationship with the first and second members' upper surface. Also, the third members' side surfaces proximate the extending upper surfaces at each end thereof are in close relationship with the opposed side walls of each of the first and second members.

Abstract: A vehicle frame structure comprises a right side primary longitudinal member and a left side primary longitudinal member, at least two cross beams extending there between that define in combination a ladder like frame having a forward portion and a rearward portion that correspond with the front and rear of a vehicle. Right and left side rocker members are supported in a spaced relationship with respect to the right and left side primary longitudinal members. A "C" node is disposed between adjacent primary members and rocker members. Right side and left side rear beams have a forward end and an opposed rearward end, an upper surface and an opposed lower surface, and an inwardly facing surface and an opposed outwardly facing surface.

Abstract: A wall assembly suitable for use on ships and offshore drilling platforms and in similar applications requiring fire resistance, low weight, and strength. The wall assembly includes a light weight principal panel having first and second fiber reinforced polymer skin layers joined to a core, and a metal frame adhered to the skin layers without any through fasteners. The frame preferably includes a first metal plate adhered to the first skin layer and a second metal plate adhered to the second skin layer and welded to the first metal plate. The frame is preferably welded to a metal support structure. The wall assembly may be used as a deck, floor, roof, vertical wall, gate or door.

Abstract: A method of making a low inertia wheel for a track laying vehicle. The method includes securing together two center metal discs provided with peripheral offset portions that form a continuous groove when the discs are secured together. Annular wall portions of two circular fiber-reinforced composite rim members are secured to the peripheral offset portions of the metal discs. The composite rim members have laterally extending rim portions supporting solid elastomer tires. Segmented, light weight wear pads are secured on opposed inside surfaces of the continuous groove.

Abstract: A light weight road wheel having a relatively low mass moment of rotational inertia for use in a vehicle having an endless track. The wheel includes an inner metal member having a peripheral groove for receiving guide cleats of an endless track, and opposed peripheral rims having inner annular wall portions disposed against surfaces of said inner metal member. The rims are made of a fiber-reinforced composite material. Means are provided for securing the inner member and rim portions together. Elastomer tires secured to the outside surfaces of the rims, and segmented wear pads are located on inwardly facing surfaces of the peripheral groove.