Abstract: An automotive vehicle door is provided having a first generally rigid outer structure; a second generally rigid inner structure spaced from the outer structure, the second inner structure having a guide opening; an interior trim panel connected to the second generally rigid inner structure; and a target having a first section generally adjacent the outer structure. A second section substantially smaller than the first section extends from the first section and has a cross-sectional area small enough for passage through the guide opening. Therefore, an impact on the outer door panel causes the target section to protrude inwardly through the inner structure opening, causing the trim panel to protrude inwardly.

Abstract: An automotive vehicle door structure is provided which, in a preferred embodiment, includes a first generally rigid outer structure, a second generally rigid inner structure spaced from the outer structure and having an opening generally aligned with the pelvic region of a vehicle occupant seated inside the vehicle, a bracket spanning the opening of the inner structure, and a compliant target held by the bracket spaced generally adjacent the inner structure opening and located between the inner and outer structures. Thus, an impact on the door causes the target to protrude inwardly through the inner structure opening.