Integral structures of metal and plastic
View Patent ↗Integral structures are formed using a combination of both metal and plastic. These materials are secured together by the unique design of the metal in areas of contact with the plastic. Ribbed structures in which metal is suitably joined with injection molded plastic are also contemplated herein.
1. An integral structure comprising a metal surface and one or more plastic support members or plastic rib supports attached to said metal surface, wherein said metal surface comprises at least one edge portion formed at least in part with an undulating or serrated pattern along which one support member is secured or wherein at least one rib support is connected to sold metal surface with a lip.
2. The integral structure of claim 1 further comprising ribs incorporated therealong.
3. The integral structure of claim 1 wherein said metal surface has an aperture formed therein.
4. The integral structure of claim 1 wherein said plastic support members and ribs are made of polyamide.
5. An article comprising an integral structure comprising a metal surface and one or more plastic support members or plastic rib supports attached to said metal surface, wherein said metal surface comprises at least one edge portion formed at least in part with an undulating or serrated pattern along which one support member is secured or wherein at least one rib support is connected to said metal surface with a lip.
6. The article of claim 5 in the form of front end module.
7. The integral structure of claim 1 wherein said metal surface comprises at least one edge portion formed at least in part with an undulating or serrated surface and a bend or curve.