An Innovative Light Weight Instrument Panel Reinforcement Structure

A light weight, cost effective IP reinforcement structure with a high degree of resistance to steering wheel vibration and with a safe and efficient crash energy management has been developed by Alcoa Automotive Structures (AAS). It also demonstrates other desirable attributes like modularity for world-car platform applications and improved dimensional consistency.

The design was analyzed using finite element methods (FEM) for vibration and crash performance and prototype assemblies have been tested. Results demonstrate conformance to vibration and crash response expectations. The concept demonstrates viability and benefits of Alcoa's multiple material and product form solution for IP structures. This paper describes the design and shows some of the analysis and test results