Abstract: A support structure for components within a vehicle is provided. The support structure includes a beam comprising a hollow metal tube coupled to vehicle's body. The tube is constructed of a single piece of tubing having first and second portions. The first portion has a first diameter and a first thickness, the second portion has a second diameter and a second thickness. The second diameter is larger than the first diameter and the second thickness is greater than the first thickness.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 24, 2004
Date of Patent:
August 5, 2008
Assignee:
L&W Engineering Incorporated
Inventors:
James Kring, Gene Goins, Dean Richardson
Abstract: An energy absorbing knee bolster for use in an interior of a vehicle is disclosed. The knee bolster is configured to absorb energy from the vehicle's occupants during a crash. The knee bolster is formed of a collapsible cylinder which is welded to an impact plate on its first end and to a vehicle's cross-car beam at its second end. A coupling flange is disposed between the impact plate and a medial portion of the collapsible cylinder. The collapsible cylinder is configured to axially collapse at a predetermined force when impacted by a moving occupant.