Abstract: An integrated bumper and hitch assembly is disclosed that integrates a bumper and a weight distributing hitch into a single unit. The integrated assembly includes a square, tubular socket for supporting and receiving a weight distributing hitch. A pair of outer struts are secured to a transverse arm at the corners of the bumper and hitch assembly. The outer struts support the corners of the bumper against vertical deflection and provide corner impact resistance. The bumper and hitch assembly includes three degree-of-freedom adjustability when attaching to a vehicle, thereby allowing the assembly to be properly aligned with the vehicle in three different directions. A cover over the hitch and another cover over the top of the bumper conceal the fasteners used to secure the assembly together and provide an overall pleasing exterior.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 5, 1998
Date of Patent:
October 31, 2000
Assignee:
American Bumper & Mfg. Co.
Inventors:
Frank E. Smith, Craig A. Harbour, Raymond T. Ueberroth, Jody M. Sullivan
Abstract: A bumper system for vehicles having a bumper beam formed from ultra high strength steel rolled formed into a tubular body having a generally D-shaped cross-section. The D-shaped cross-section has a top and bottom flat surface area and a parabolic center area therebetween.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 29, 1997
Date of Patent:
December 8, 1998
Assignee:
American Bumper & Mfg. Co.
Inventors:
Jeffrey A. Anderson, Robert B. Senior, Gregory J. Filipek
Abstract: A bumper system for vehicles having a bumper beam formed from ultra high strength steel rolled formed into a tubular body having a generally D-shaped cross-section. The D-shaped cross-section has a top and bottom flat surface area and a parabolic center area therebetween.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 24, 1996
Date of Patent:
March 10, 1998
Assignee:
American Bumper & Mfg. Co.
Inventors:
Jeffrey A. Anderson, Robert B. Senior, Gregory J. Filipek