Appeal No. 2003-0867 Page 3
Application No. 09/688,104
support assembly combines the function of the radiator support, hood-latch
support system, grille opening reinforcement, and several
attachment/reinforcement brackets into a single die-cast, injection molded, or
cast component. Still another advantage of the present invention is that the
multi-functional radiator support assembly uses die-cast magnesium as the
material for the structure. A further advantage of the present invention is that the
multi-functional radiator support assembly provides improved dimensional
control, reduction of tooled end items, fifty percent to seventy percent weight
reduction, reduction of variable cost and labor, while improving lateral/torsional
bending modes, and one hundred percent improvement in strength and durability
of the vehicle. Yet a further advantage of the present invention is that the
multi-functional radiator support assembly requires less packaging space,
enabling reduction of front end overhang and supporting various styling needs,
and saves a large amount of weight.
A copy of the dependent claims under appeal is set forth in the appendix to the
appellants' brief. The independent claims on appeal read as follows:
1. A multi-functional radiator support assembly for a motor vehicle
comprising:
a radiator support for operative attachment to a forward end of the motor
vehicle; and
said radiator support is a single structural member being made of
magnesium or a magnesium alloy material.
14. A multi-functional radiator support assembly for a motor vehicle
comprising:
a radiator support for operative attachment to a forward end of the motor
vehicle; and
said radiator support is a die casting of a magnesium or magnesium alloy
material and said radiator support is made as a single structural member.
20. A multi-functional radiator support assembly for a motor vehicle
comprising:
a radiator support for operative attachment to a forward end of the motor
vehicle;
Page: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Next
Last modified: November 3, 2007