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/Electrically Conductive Overmolded Hinge Bushing
Abstract

Described are electrically conductive overmolded bushings for use in an automotive hinge joint and processes for forming the overmolded bushing. The overmolded bushings comprise an electrically conductive, carbon fiber-filled polymer composite and at least one steel hinge segment of at least two metal hinge segments to be joined provided with a pivot pin aperture. The polymer composite is overmolded to the pivot pin aperture to form a bushing. The bushing is formed with circumferential flanges extending radially from the pivot pin aperture. The circumferential flanges each provided with at least one circumferential rib. The bushing is further formed with an interior cylindrical wall integral with the circumferential flanges and abutting the pivot pin aperture. Carbon fibers in the bushing are exposed by compressing the at least one circumferential rib during assembly of the hinge to create an electrical connection between the at least two metal hinge segments.

Full Text

What is claimed is:

Described are electrically conductive overmolded bushings for use in an automotive hinge joint and processes for forming the overmolded bushing. The overmolded bushings comprise an electrically conductive, carbon fiber-filled polymer composite and at least one steel hinge segment of at least two metal hinge segments to be joined provided with a pivot pin aperture. The polymer composite is overmolded to the pivot pin aperture to form a bushing. The bushing is formed with circumferential flanges extending radially from the pivot pin aperture. The circumferential flanges each provided with at least one circumferential rib. The bushing is further formed with an interior cylindrical wall integral with the circumferential flanges and abutting the pivot pin aperture. Carbon fibers in the bushing are exposed by compressing the at least one circumferential rib during assembly of the hinge to create an electrical connection between the at least two metal hinge segments.
Timeline
Filed
03/12/2026
Published
07/16/2026
Granted
Not Available
IPC Codes(5)
F16C 17/02:for radial load only
F16C 11/04:Pivotal connections (hinges for doors, windows or wings E05D)
F16C 17/24:with devices affected by abnormal or undesired conditions, e.g. for preventing overheating, for safety