초록 ▼

A bumper/muffler assembly is provided to simultaneously perform noise attenuation functions and impact protection for an automotive vehicle. The bumper/muffler assembly is formed at least in part from stamped sheets of metal. The sheets include an internal plate formed with inlet and outlet channels

A bumper/muffler assembly is provided to simultaneously perform noise attenuation functions and impact protection for an automotive vehicle. The bumper/muffler assembly is formed at least in part from stamped sheets of metal. The sheets include an internal plate formed with inlet and outlet channels therein. Inlet and outlet tube plates are secured to portions of the internal plate adjacent the inlet and outlet channels such that inlet and outlet tubes are defined. A front external shell is disposed in proximity to the rear end of the vehicle and is configured to be spaced from portions of the internal plate to define a front chamber. A rear external shell also is spaced from the internal plate to define a rear chamber. A plastic material may be nested over the rear external shell for aesthetic attractiveness of the assembly.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A bumper/muffler assembly for a vehicle, said vehicle having a rear end and opposed sides, said assembly comprising:internal plates secured in nested relationship to one another and formed to define at least one inlet tube, at least one outlet tube, and opening means for

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A bumper/muffler assembly for a vehicle, said vehicle having a rear end and opposed sides, said assembly comprising:internal plates secured in nested relationship to one another and formed to define at least one inlet tube, at least one outlet tube, and opening means for permitting exhaust gas communication from said inlet tube to said outlet tube;first and second external shells secured in surrounding relationship to said internal plates and being formed respectively to define first and second chambers surrounding and enclosing said opening means in said internal plates, said external shells being dimensioned and configured for mounting to said rear end of said vehicle and for extending substantially from one said side of said vehicle to the other; andmounting means secured to at least one of said first and second external shells for secure mounting of said bumper/muffler assembly to said rear end of said vehicle.