Abstract: A multi-opening oven assembly for simultaneously heating a plurality of blanks, for example aluminum blanks, before forming the heated blanks in a production line is provided. The oven assembly includes vertically aligned shelves to present a plurality of chambers for heating the blanks. A table including an entry side platform and an exit side platform moves vertically along the oven assembly. A rail system extends along the platforms and the shelves to convey the blanks in and out of the chambers. Once one set of heated blanks is removed from a first chamber, the table moves vertically to a second chamber and is ready to receive the next set of heated blanks. A continuous supply of heated blanks is provided for high throughput. The oven assembly is preferably disposed in a press adjacent a forming station of an existing production line and thus, no additional floor space is required.

Abstract: An austempered structural steel component for an automotive vehicle, and a method for manufacturing the component, is provided. The structural component can be a twist axle, spring link, control arm, pillar, trailer hitch, bumper, body or suspension attachment bracket for a truck frame, or other chassis, body in white, or safety-related component. The structural component is at least partially formed of medium carbon steel having a bainitic microstructure. The medium carbon steel can include 0.2 to 1.0 wt. % carbon, 0.1 to 3.0 wt. % manganese, not greater than 2.0 wt. % silicon, 0.0 to 0.010 wt. % boron, not greater than 0.1 wt. % sulfur, and not greater than 0.2 wt. % phosphorous. The medium carbon steel provides a yield strength of 900 to 1500 MPa. The structural component is also lighter and can potentially be manufactured with reduced costs, compared to structural components formed from other steel materials.

Abstract: A multi-opening oven assembly for simultaneously heating a plurality of blanks, for example aluminum blanks, before forming the heated blanks in a production line is provided. The oven assembly includes vertically aligned shelves to present a plurality of chambers for heating the blanks. A table including an entry side platform and an exit side platform moves vertically along the oven assembly. A rail system extends along the platforms and the shelves to convey the blanks in and out of the chambers. Once one set of heated blanks is removed from a first chamber, the table moves vertically to a second chamber and is ready to receive the next set of heated blanks. A continuous supply of heated blanks is provided for high throughput. The oven assembly is preferably disposed in a press adjacent a forming station of an existing production line and thus, no additional floor space is required.

Abstract: A solar tracker and more specifically to a modular support assembly for a solar tracker that allows reduced assembly and transportation costs.

Abstract: A solar tracker and more specifically to a modular support assembly for a solar tracker that allows reduced assembly and transportation costs.