Instrument Panel Cross Beam Assembly Using Console Load Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern motor vehicles face challenges in providing a sturdy instrument panel cross beam assembly that offers enhanced structural efficiency while minimizing material use and weight, and simplifying the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
The instrument panel cross beam assembly incorporates a console, such as a center console, with support struts extending from the cross beam to the vehicle floor, establishing a load path through the console, reducing the need for direct connections and allowing for a more efficient and lightweight structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional direct connections are used between instrument panel cross beam and vehicle floor, then structural strength is sufficient, but material usage increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support strut function with the console structure by positioning the console in the load path between the support strut and vehicle floor. This integration allows the console to participate in load bearing, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement elements and reducing overall material usage while maintaining structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The console is given a dual function: it serves as both a functional vehicle component (storage/console structure) and as a structural load-bearing element. By positioning it in the load path, it simultaneously performs its original function and contributes to structural support, reducing the need for additional dedicated support structures.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional direct connections are used between instrument panel cross beam and vehicle floor, then structural stability is sufficient, but assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the support function with the existing console structure, merging two separate assembly considerations (support strut installation and console installation) into a single integrated assembly process. The console is positioned to serve as part of the support structure, simplifying the overall assembly by reducing the number of separate components and connection points.
3Strength
If more material is used in instrument panel cross beam assembly, then structural strength increases, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The console structure is designed to serve dual purposes: maintaining its functional role as a vehicle console while simultaneously acting as a load-bearing structural element. This multi-functionality allows the vehicle to achieve necessary structural strength without adding dedicated reinforcement materials that would increase weight.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the support function with the console structure, the patent eliminates redundant materials. The console itself becomes the support structure, removing the need for additional heavy reinforcement elements and directly reducing vehicle weight while maintaining required structural strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle has a vehicle body with side parts opposite one another at a distance and with a vehicle floor. An instrument panel cross beam is arranged between the side parts and attached thereto and a console is arranged on the vehicle floor and attached thereto. At least one support strut extends from the instrument panel cross beam in the direction of the vehicle floor, wherein the console is located in the load path between the at least one support strut and the vehicle floor.