Abstract: There is disclosed a modular assembly and method of forming the assembly. The assembly is particularly suitable as at least part of a front end of a transportation or automotive vehicle. The assembly preferably includes one or more plastic structures adhesively secured to one or more metal structures.

Abstract: There is disclosed an air bag system and a method of forming the same. The system preferably includes a first panel portion and a second panel portion that are adhered to each other to form a laminate member. An air bag of the air bag system is preferably configured for opening the laminate member upon inflation of the air bag.

Abstract: There is disclosed an instrument panel assembly and a method of forming the same. The instrument panel assembly preferably includes one or more frames or structures that are at least partially formed of plastic. The assembly also preferably includes a reinforcement structure for assisting the instrument panel assembly in supporting a peripheral component such as a steering wheel column.

Abstract: A plastic pickup truck box fabricated from a plurality of separately molded sections, wherein each section is molded of a plastic material, and the molded sections are joined together with an adhesive, has advantages over conventional metal pickup truck boxes and plastic pickup truck boxes molded as a single piece. Advantages over metal pickup truck boxes include lighter weight, improved corrosion resistance, and improved impact resistance. Advantages over conventional one-piece plastic pickup truck boxes include lower production costs, lower shipping costs, and improved mechanical properties and durability.

Abstract: A plastic pickup truck box fabricated from a plurality of separately molded sections, wherein each section is molded of a plastic material, and the molded sections are joined together with an adhesive, has advantages over conventional metal pickup truck boxes and plastic pickup truck boxes molded as a single piece. Advantages over metal pickup truck boxes include lighter weight, improved corrosion resistance, and improved impact resistance. Advantages over conventional one-piece plastic pickup truck boxes include lower production costs, lower shipping costs, and improved mechanical properties and durability.

Abstract: A modular instrument panel assembly for a vehicle wherein the assembly includes a base module having a transverse vertical wall located between the occupant compartment and the forward compartment of the vehicle and a transverse horizontal plenum above the wall and acting with the wall to provide structural support. The assembly further includes an air distribution module having an air distribution plenum providing air outlets for selectively distributing air to the occupant compartment, where the plenum provides additional structural support. The two modules are secured to one another and when installed in a vehicle provide structural support for the vehicle body and further provide a separating barrier between the forward compartment and the occupant compartment.