Abstract: A method for determining seam weld length pattern for a component includes generating a baseline finite element model wherein each weld line having a base length, each weld line comprises a first end and a second end. The method also includes generating a first set of finite element models, each of the first set of models having one weld end shortened while all other weld ends at base length, generating a second set of finite element models, each of the second set of models having one weld end lengthened while all other weld ends at base length, generating fatigue data for the baseline finite element model, first and second set of finite element models. Combination models are created by comparing fatigue data between for each weld pair. The method further determines combination model fatigue data for each combination model, determines a minimum fatigue life for each of the combination models from the fatigue data and selects a weld pattern of the combination model having a highest minimum fatigue life value.

Abstract: A cam washer for a vehicle suspension system includes a point of rotation about which the washer is configured to rotate, and an outer surface profile where any point along the outer surface profile is configured to provide a friction angle less than a predetermined value to prevent the cam washer bolt from rotating under a load acting on the outer surface profile, the outer surface profile being a function of: i) a shortest distance from the point of rotation to the outer surface profile, ii) a longest distance from the point of rotation to the outer surface profile, iii) a position angle of the outer surface profile, and iv) a coefficient of friction of a material of the washer.

Abstract: A cam washer for a vehicle suspension system includes a point of rotation about which the washer is configured to rotate, and an outer surface profile where any point along the outer surface profile is configured to provide a friction angle less than a predetermined value to prevent the cam washer bolt from rotating under a load acting on the outer surface profile, the outer surface profile being a function of: i) a shortest distance from the point of rotation to the outer surface profile, ii) a longest distance from the point of rotation to the outer surface profile, iii) a position angle of the outer surface profile, and iv) a coefficient of friction of a material of the washer.

Abstract: In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle suspension includes an upper member, a lower member, a spring, a jounce bumper, and a striker. The lower member is configured to pivot relative to the upper member. The spring is configured to bias the lower member away from the upper member. The jounce bumper is fixedly coupled to one of the upper and lower members. The striker is fixedly coupled to the other one of the upper and lower members. The striker has a striker surface configured to contact the jounce bumper when the lower member is pivoted to compress the spring greater than a predetermined amount. The striker surface is convex toward the jounce bumper.

Abstract: A seat belt restraint anchorage member adapted for mounting to the underside of a vehicle floor pan enabling the belt load to be transferred by the member to the vehicle main frame. The anchorage member is fabricated from a one piece elongated sheet metal strip having, in cross sectional view, a leading end portion bent into a closed polygonal-shaped loop terminating in an elongated rearwardly extending blade portion. The loop is formed by a plurality of planar segments one of which is in flush attachment with an opposed upwardly contoured hump portion of the vehicle floor pan. The anchorage member is welded to the underside of the floor pan as a sub-assembly enabling the anchorage member and floor pan to be readily attached to the vehicle main frame at the assembly plant. Applicants' invention allows the seat belt loads to be conducted through the reinforcing anchorage member into an aft portion of the main frame thereby minimizing strain of the body shell.