Abstract: A moon roof frame module is sized to span between the laterally spaced roof side rails of an automotive roof frame structure and is welded to the opposing roof side rails to be integrated into the roof frame structure. As a result, the moon roof assembly serves as a load path member to reinforce the automotive roof structure. The integrated moon roof frame module will receive roll over forces and increase the strength of the roof structure of an automotive vehicle. The moon roof frame module includes a U-shaped roof panel that is welded to the opposing roof side rails and provides a reinforcing cross member located forwardly of the moon roof opening. A second cross member positioned rearwardly of the moon roof opening increases rigidity of the reinforcing moon roof frame module.

Abstract: A structural joint configuration is used in an automotive body structure in which a transverse roof cross member has a convoluted formed shape that must be connected to the longitudinally extending tubular roof side rail. A two-piece clam shell bracket forms the joint apparatus. A lower piece formed in a shape to mate to and receive the transverse roof cross member is welded to the underside of the tubular roof side rail while projecting a formed receiver to engage the transverse roof cross member. An upper piece clamps over top of the transverse roof cross member and is welded to the top portion of the tubular roof side rail. The joint apparatus can be secured to the transverse roof cross member and to the roof side rail by either welding or by adhesives to provide a reinforcement at the joint between the two structural members.

Abstract: A moon roof frame module is sized to span between the laterally spaced roof side rails of an automotive roof frame structure and is welded to the opposing roof side rails to be integrated into the roof frame structure. As a result, the moon roof assembly serves as a load path member to reinforce the automotive roof structure. The integrated moon roof frame module will receive roll over forces and increase the strength of the roof structure of an automotive vehicle. The moon roof frame module includes a U-shaped roof panel that is welded to the opposing roof side rails and provides a reinforcing cross member located forwardly of the moon roof opening. A second cross member positioned rearwardly of the moon roof opening increases rigidity of the reinforcing moon roof frame module.

Abstract: A structural joint configuration is used in an automotive body structure in which a transverse roof cross member has a convoluted formed shape that must be connected to the longitudinally extending tubular roof side rail. A two-piece clam shell bracket forms the joint apparatus. A lower piece formed in a shape to mate to and receive the transverse roof cross member is welded to the underside of the tubular roof side rail while projecting a formed receiver to engage the transverse roof cross member. An upper piece clamps over top of the transverse roof cross member and is welded to the top portion of the tubular roof side rail. The joint apparatus can be secured to the transverse roof cross member and to the roof side rail by either welding or by adhesives to provide a reinforcement at the joint between the two structural members.

Abstract: A structural joint configuration is used in an automotive body structure in which a transverse roof cross member has a convoluted formed shape that must be connected to the longitudinally extending tubular roof side rail. A two-piece clam shell bracket forms the joint apparatus. A lower piece formed in a shape to mate to and receive the transverse roof cross member is welded to the underside of the tubular roof side rail while projecting a formed receiver to engage the transverse roof cross member. An upper piece clamps over top of the transverse roof cross member and is welded to the top portion of the tubular roof side rail. The joint apparatus can be secured to the transverse roof cross member and to the roof side rail by either welding or by adhesives to provide a reinforcement at the joint between the two structural members.

Abstract: A structural joint configuration is used in an automotive body structure in which a transverse roof cross member has a convoluted formed shape that must be connected to the longitudinally extending tubular roof side rail. A two-piece clam shell bracket forms the joint apparatus. A lower piece formed in a shape to mate to and receive the transverse roof cross member is welded to the underside of the tubular roof side rail while projecting a formed receiver to engage the transverse roof cross member. An upper piece clamps over top of the transverse roof cross member and is welded to the top portion of the tubular roof side rail. The joint apparatus can be secured to the transverse roof cross member and to the roof side rail by either welding or by adhesives to provide a reinforcement at the joint between the two structural members.