Abstract: A closure system for a vehicle includes a closure member movable relative to the vehicle between an open position and a closed position. The closure member includes a flexible panel and a plurality of support members supporting the flexible panel. A first support member is attached to and is movable with the closure member between the open position and the closed position. The first support member includes a recess receiving the flexible panel and the plurality of support members therein when the closure member is in the open position.

Abstract: A closure system for a vehicle includes a closure member movable relative to the vehicle between an open position and a dosed position. The closure member includes a flexible panel and a plurality of support members supporting the flexible panel. A first support member is attached to and is movable with the closure member between the open position and the closed position. The first support member includes a recess receiving the flexible panel and the plurality of support members therein when the closure member is in the open position.

Abstract: A method for mounting a door to a vehicle body without the aid of a door-to-body mounting fixture. The method utilizes statistical process control data from previously assembled doors to determine the locations of holes that are pierced in hinges just prior to hinge installation. A pair of hinges are provided with the pierced holes to ensure self-alignment of the door.

Abstract: A reinforced door assembly for a motor vehicle including a vehicle frame. The reinforced door assembly includes a door frame and two reinforcement brackets. The reinforcement brackets incorporate a tubular reinforcement beam which extends the length of the reinforced door assembly. The end of the reinforcement beam which incorporates the reinforcement bracket nearest a latch mechanism of the reinforced door is formed to include a reverse taper cut and extends substantially the entire length of the reinforcement bracket. By extending the entire length of the reinforcement bracket, the reinforcement beam overlaps the latch mechanism of the reinforced door.

Abstract: A workpiece is held at a welding station by several clamps during welding. After welding, the workpiece is transferred to a checking station where a determination is made of the actual location of critical points on the workpiece. The actual critical point locations are compared with ideal critical point locations to determine if there is any error in the manner in which the workpiece was held by the clamps. If an error is determined, one or more of the clamps are adjusted to compensate for the error when holding a subsequent workpiece for welding. Apparatus is also provided for carrying out the method of this invention.