Abstract: A reinforcement and method for reinforcing a hollow tubular structure includes a first sheet of flexible fiber material impregnated with resin. The first sheet is rolled into a tubular shape and a seam is provided between first and second lateral edges of the first sheet to form a tubular reinforcement. An inflatable bladder extends through the tubular reinforcement and is inflated to press the tubular reinforcement into contact with the inside wall of the tubular structure. Curing of the resin will bond the first sheet to the inside wall to reinforce the tubular structure. The first sheet can have a region of built-up thickness to provide additional reinforcement. The seam between the lateral edges of the first sheet can be a separable seam that separates when the bladder is inflated to allow the first sheet to contact with a region of the tubular structure that is of larger circumference than the circumference of the tubular reinforcement.

Abstract: A torque box for use in a vehicle having a front rail and rocker is comprised of a single casting. The torque box includes a first projection shaped to connect to the front rail, a second projection shaped to connect to the rocker, and a connector connecting the first projection to the second projection.

Abstract: A bracket includes first and second portions for joining a suspension damper and a suspension spring to a vehicular body. The first portion of the bracket includes a wall having a ledge. A central opening is provided in the ledge for receiving the upper end of a damper. The second portion of the bracket includes a wall substantially perpendicular to the wall of the first portion. A seat is provided in the wall of the second portion to seat the upper end of a suspension spring. Preferably, the first and second portions are formed as a single casting.