Abstract: A reinforced fastener assembly (18) for securing a vehicle seat (14, 16) to a vehicle sheet metal body structure (20) is provided. The reinforced fastener assembly (18) includes a mounting bracket (34) having a collar portion (36) for coupling to the vehicle sheet metal body structure (20) and distributing a load across a substantial portion of the vehicle sheet metal body structure (20). This mounting bracket (34) further includes an attachment portion (50) that has a vehicle seat fastener (52) extending therefrom. Finally, the reinforced fastener assembly (18) includes a tubular reinforcement member (78) that is coupled to and extends substantially across the collar portion (36) of the mounting bracket (34). This tubular reinforcement member (78) is intended to reinforce the collar portion (36) thereby allowing the collar portion (36) to distribute a load across a substantial portion of the vehicle sheet metal body structure (20).
Abstract: An automotive door assembly (10) includes an inner door (30) having an inner panel (40). The inner panel (40) has a first seat (44) and a second seat (46) integrally formed therein. The first seat (44) has a first side member (50) fixedly attached thereto for separating an exterior of the door assembly (10) from a door cavity thereof. The first side member (50) also reinforces the automotive door assembly (10). Likewise, the second seat (46) a second side member (90) has fixedly attached thereto for separating the exterior of the door assembly (10) from the door cavity thereof. The second side member (90) also reinforces the automotive door assembly (10). The inner panel (40), the first side member (50), and the second side member (90) have an outer door (18) attached thereto for enclosing the door cavity.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 5, 2002
Date of Patent:
April 22, 2003
Assignee:
Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
Inventors:
Laurent Bernard Chappuis, Michael William Danyo