Frederick D Hunter

US Patent:

6863322, Mar 8, 2005

Filed:

May 31, 2001

Appl. No.:

10/297153

Inventors:

Frederick D. Hunter - Almont MI, US
Paul Lafata - Chesterfield MI, US

International Classification:

B29C045/16

US Classification:

293120, 293132, 264255

Abstract:

A motor vehicle bumper system comprising an outer shell () of an automotive bumper having an inner surface () generally oriented toward the vehicle. The outer shell comprises a plurality of energy absorbing protuberances () extending inwardly from the inner surface of the outer shell. The energy absorbing protuberances may be formed from an energy absorbing material, such as a polymeric foam, and/or may additionally comprise indentations extending into the body of the protuberance to enhance the energy absorbing characteristics of the protuberance.