Abstract: An automotive vehicle door 10 having a window panel 22 movable to close and partially open a window opening 18 is stabilized against lateral movement when in a partially open position by a lower channel 28, mounted substantially below a beltline section 32 of the window opening 18, which has a narrowed width section 64 with sides 46 inwardly crimped along a longitudinal axis thereof for cooperating with a deformable glass run 66 mounted within the lower channel 28 to restrict inboard and outboard movement of the window panel 22. A sleeve 52 between the lower channel 28 and a middle channel 26 limits relative lateral movement therebetween, and a reinforced window seal 36 along the beltline section 32 of the door 10 provides further lateral support for the window panel 22 in the partially opened position.

Abstract: An automotive vehicle armrest is formed in a cup-like configuration as a unitary metal stamping. The armrest armature includes an upper, load supporting wall from which depends a peripherally continuous sidewall. Elongated depressions are formed in the load supporting wall to define a truss-like configuration to enhance the load supporting capability of the armrest.

Abstract: A support (26) for mounting an energy absorbing steering column is disclosed as including a metal strap (30) that extends transversely with respect to the steering axis A and has a central portion (32) that mounts the steering column as well as having opposite ends (38) each of which includes a mounting portion (40) for mounting on the vehicle. The strap includes a pair of U-shaped portions (42) located between the central portion (32) and the opposite ends (38) thereof with the open end of each U-shaped portion (42) opening in the same direction as each other along the steering axis. Movement of the steering column along the steering axis deforms the strap to straighten the U-shaped portions (42) and absorb energy. Clamping connections (44) mount the mounting portions (40) of the strap (30) on opposite sides of the U-shaped portions such that pivoting of the mounting portions cooperates with straightening of the U-shaped portions to increase the steering column movement that absorbs energy.