Importance

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Abstract

A reinforcement member for a pivotable assembly is provided, enhancing resistance to deflection of the componentry of the pivotable assembly when subjected to shear loading. The pivotable assembly is expressly suitable for use as a recliner for a motor vehicle seat, an inertia latch, etc or other device where precise alignment of componentry is critical. The pivotable assembly has a support bracket generally including a pair of support brackets for mounting other componentry of the pivoting assembly, a pivoting member pivoting on a pivot attached to the support brackets, and a reinforcement member attached to the pivot. In one preferred embodiment, the reinforcement member has a projection, optionally a unitary semi- pierce projection, which extends into and preferably abuts an opening in one of the support brackets. The edge of the opening acts as a stop, to participate in carrying impact loads and to resist excessive static loading. In another preferred embodiment, one of the support brackets has a projection extending into the plane of the reinforcement member. The edge of the projection presents a generally perpendicular face or contact surface to the reinforcement member and acts as a stop resisting deflection during static loading of the pivoting member.

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First Claim