CPC B62D 21/11 (2013.01) [B32B 15/011 (2013.01)] | 21 Claims |
1. A structural frame for a vehicle, the structural frame comprising:
a plurality of interconnected panel portions defining a shape of the frame;
wherein each panel portion has a variable thickness;
wherein the panel portions include a first thickness at a first zone and a second thickness at a second zone;
wherein the first thickness defines a minimum thickness of the panel portion;
wherein the second thickness defines a maximum thickness of the panel portion;
wherein the first thickness is defined by a first sheet of material;
wherein the second thickness is defined by the first sheet of a material and at least one patch attached to the first sheet of material;
wherein the panel portions define a curved cross-section profile.
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