Structural weld joint with internal gusset

Abstract

This invention utilizes a cast corner member (20) as a support base for the load bearing members (14) of a roll over protection structure (10). The cast corner member (20) has an end portion (34) comprising at least one gusset (40) which telescopically engages a tubular member (14). The gusset (40) has a tapered configuration which defines a free end portion (36) that has a reduced cross-sectional area and is positioned within the tubular member (14) in slightly spaced relationship to at least one of the side walls of the tubular member (14). When the end portion (34) of the corner member (20) is telescopically received within the tubular member (14), a groove is formed to receive a weld bead (22) which secures the two members together. Since the area of the weld bead (22) is inherently the weakest portion of the structure, the gusset (40) functions to direct bending stresses to an area away from the weld bead (22) to prevent the weld from cracking when the roll over protection structure (10) encounters a bending load.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.