Abstract: A structural supporting roof pillar for use in a vehicle including an elongated, interiorly hollowed and polygonal shaped body having a selected arcuate lengthwise configuration and corresponding in placement to at least one of an A, B, and C vehicle pillar. A first component supporting flange is integrally formed, such as by overlapping end portions of a roll formed body, and projecting in at least a partially lengthwise extending fashion from a given cross sectional location. A secondary component supporting flange is affixed to a further cross sectional location associated with the body, such as further by welding.

Abstract: A frame system for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of frame members each having a connector socket defined therein. The system further includes a connector having an outer profile configured to engage the sockets of two of the frame members so as to connect them in a fixed angular relationship. The connectors are composite bodies including a core member and an exterior body which covers at least a portion of the core member and defines a portion of the outer profile of the connector. Also disclosed are frames which employ the system and methods for manufacturing the frames.

Abstract: A structural supporting roof pillar for use in a vehicle including an elongated, interiorly hollowed and polygonal shaped body having a selected arcuate lengthwise configuration and corresponding in placement to at least one of an A, B, and C vehicle pillar. A first component supporting flange is integrally formed, such as by overlapping end portions of a roll formed body, and projecting in at least a partially lengthwise extending fashion from a given cross sectional location. A secondary component supporting flange is affixed to a further cross sectional location associated with the body, such as further by welding.

Abstract: A frame system for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of frame members each having a connector socket defined therein. The system further includes a connector having an outer profile configured to engage the sockets of two of the frame members so as to connect them in a fixed angular relationship. The connectors are composite bodies including a core member and an exterior body which covers at least a portion of the core member and defines a portion of the outer profile of the connector. Also disclosed are frames which employ the system and methods for manufacturing the frames.

Abstract: A structural member for the body of a motor vehicle includes a generally elongated support member which at least partially encloses an interior volume, and a reinforcing insert which is disposed in the interior volume. The reinforcing insert extends along at least a portion of the length of the support member, and has a cross section which defines a closed perimeter that encloses an area. The insert member may be configured so as to control its deformation characteristics thereby providing a structural member which efficiently and safely absorbs kinetic energy in a crash.