US Patent 9248870 Reinforced panel structure

Exemplary reinforced structures, e.g., panel structures, and methods of making the same are disclosed. A reinforced structure may include a panel support extending along a panel. The panel support may be relatively rigid in comparison to the panel. The structure may further include an expandable support having a body portion mounted on the panel support. The body portion may be formed of an expandable material such that the body portion is configured to engage the panel upon expansion, thereby providing an expanded support acting between the panel and the panel support after expansion.