The integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) into modern vehicles necessitates innovative solutions for interior packaging that balance out safety, performance, and ergonomic considerations. This paper introduces an inverted U-shaped steel tube cross car beam (CCB) as a superior alternative to traditional straight tube designs, tailored for premium vehicle instrument panels.
The U-shaped geometry overcomes the limitations of straight tube beams by creating additional packaging space for components such as AR-HUDs, steering columns, HVAC systems, and electronic control units (ECUs). This geometry supports efficient crunch packaging while accommodating ergonomic requirements like H-point, eyeball trajectory, and cockpit depth for optimal ADAS component placement. The vertical alignment of the steering column within the U-shaped design further enhances space utilization and structural integrity.
This study demonstrates that the inverted U-shaped CCB is a transformative solution for ADAS packaging, providing superior durability, crash performance, and knee injury mitigation compared to traditional straight tube designs. By addressing challenges such as crunch packaging, structural stiffness, and manufacturing efficiency, the U-shaped beam sets a new standard for global automotive platforms. The findings underscore its potential to revolutionize vehicle interiors, enabling advanced technology integration while maintaining safety and efficiency.