Abstract: A system for aerodynamically testing a vehicle having a front pair of wheels and a rear pair of wheels includes a surface for statically supporting the vehicle. The system additionally includes a primary source of air directed towards the vehicle. The primary source of air aerodynamically simulates conditions for the vehicle at a predetermined speed. The system further includes a first supplemental source of air directed into a flow of air generated by the primary source of air immediately behind the first pair of wheels.

Abstract: A tapered octagonal frame rail tip for use with automotive bumpers is configured to axially crush in a controlled manner in the event of a vehicle impact. The rail tip is tuned to carry a constant load while crushing to absorb a higher amount of energy than alternative crush modes. Body mounts for attaching front end sheet metal or other body components to the frame rail tip are configured to centrally align loading to avoid interference with the desired axial crush.

Abstract: The present invention provides a reinforced door assembly for a motor vehicle including a vehicle frame. The motor vehicle includes a B-pillar and a hinge pillar incorporating a hinge assembly. The reinforced door includes a door frame with a hinge shut face and a latch shut face. The door frame is attached to the hinge pillar of the motor vehicle by the hinge assembly which is attached to an outer side of the hinge shut face of the door frame. The reinforced door assembly further includes an offset intrusion beam with a first end and a second end. The first end of the offset intrusion beam is attached to an inner side of the hinge shut face by fasteners which also attach the hinge assembly to the outer side of the hinge shut face. The second end of the offset intrusion beam is attached to a reinforcement bracket which is attached to an inner side of the latch shut face through suitable fasteners.

Abstract: A motor vehicle seat frame assembly has a headrest movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The frame assembly comprises a seatback frame operatively engaged with the headrest, a cable, and a rod having an extension. The seatback frame is pivotable from a use position to a lowered position, while the cable extends between the headrest and a fixed point. A tensioner is attached to the seatback frame, and is adapted to wind the cable on the extension when the seatback frame is pivoted toward the lowered position.

Abstract: A vehicle wiper system is provided including a cross-vehicle shaft that drives a pair of actuation mechanisms for driving a pair of wiper assemblies. The actuation mechanisms each include a crank, a connecting rod and a lever arm, whereby the connecting rod operably interconnects the crank and lever arm. The lever arm is fixed for rotation with a wiper post, which is in turn fixed to the wiper assembly. The actuation mechanism drives reciprocal rotation of the wiper post, thereby driving reciprocal sweeping motion of the wiper assemblies. The cross-vehicle shaft is driven by a motor that is controlled by a controller.