Performance Evaluation of an Injection Molded Plastic Composite Structural Cross-Car Beam 980437
Components to provide instrument panel system structure have typically involved the use of steel, magnesium or aluminum or various combinations of these materials. Some concepts have also involved the use of plastic components to provide partial system structure. Most of these concepts have required the use of additional components to provide for air distribution ductwork.
The concept which is the subject of this paper is the use of a composite structural plastic beam to provide total unassisted system structure while also providing HVAC air distribution ductwork. The analytical models used to develop this system will be described. Test results will be presented for actual injection molded and assembled composite beams and compared to those predicted by the analytical models.
Citation: Merrifield, R. and Pitrof, S., "Performance Evaluation of an Injection Molded Plastic Composite Structural Cross-Car Beam," SAE Technical Paper 980437, 1998, https://doi.org/10.4271/980437. Download Citation
Author(s):
Richard A. Merrifield, Stephen M. Pitrof
Pages: 9
Event:
International Congress & Exposition
ISSN:
0148-7191
e-ISSN:
2688-3627
Also in:
Advances in Instrument Panel Design-SP-1343
Related Topics:
Instrument panels
Composite materials
Plastics
Magnesium
Aluminum
Steel
Logistics
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC)
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