Cockpit Modules Design and Modeling
Automotive
manufacturers are turning to suppliers for integrated systems
that can offer complete and functional modular systems within
their vehicle programs. Visteon can meet that challenge by
providing a full range of analytical capabilities that lend
valuable expertise in the design and modeling process for
a diverse range of systems. Take automotive interiors, for
example. Our industry-leading tools and methodologies provide
manufacturers with the expertise that helps them design better
interiors while shaving valuable time off of the development
process.
GENPAD®
GENPAD, which stands for Generic Parametric Design, is a tool developed
by Visteon that can help manufacturers design the vehicle cockpit's physical
and functional interface to improve ergonomics and the driver's ability
to manage information. It provides over 50 interior studies. These studies
include vision blockage, reflection, reach zone and safety zones. GENPAD
uses 3-D solid parametric modeling, which quickly converts two dimensional
design standards into three-dimensional relationships.
Based on solid modeling software, it provides engineers with parametric relationships so that a change to one object regenerates the ergonomic zones based upon that change. For instance, if a designer needs to change the gearshift to accommodate for a change in the Heating and Air Conditioning control unit, any impact of these changes to the design parameters of the console, radio headunit or ashtray will be displayed within a few minutes by GENPAD.
The ability to understand and adjust objects automatically is the primary feature of GENPAD; when compared to traditional Computer Aided Design methods, this alone can shave weeks off of the development process. By saving such a significant amount of time, engineers and designers can study a variety of interior design possibilities without running the risk of expensive delays.
GENPAD also reduces costly and time-consuming late changes, supports timing for accelerated program development, and allows interior designers and engineers to build interiors that are more comfortable, functional and crash-resistant. It can be applied to any vehicle program.
Optimal Interior
Design
Vehicle interiors are supported by the structures underneath. The design
and engineering of these structures is key to a successful vehicle interior
because of the user interface, weight, NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness),
durability and safety considerations related to structures. Visteon uses
a combination of GENPAD and CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) tools to
design the optimal interior.
Interior structures must be strong enough to support the systems, but flexible enough to properly absorb crash energy in the event of an accident. Additionally, structures must be made of materials sturdy enough to withstand normal use but flexible enough to absorb the occupant impact energy during an accident.
Our engineers use CAE tools to improve the visual, tactile, and squeak and rattle effects of the vibration that typically enters the cockpit through the steering column. Visteon's accurate and consistent use of CAE tools allows us to make the design decisions that lead to better vehicle interiors.
Visteon's ability to virtually design vehicle interiors provides a great amount of value for automotive manufacturers. While the typical automotive manufacturer's design and engineering team may build a cockpit every four years, our teams have the expertise of working on multiple platforms over a comparable period. Our design and modeling capabilities are a core piece of Visteon's ability to deliver Cockpit Modules that can integrate into any vehicle platform.
Additional InformationInteractive Module - Cockpit Modules
Product Specifications - Cockpit Modules
Product Specifications - Instrument Panel
Feature Story - Cockpit Modules Testing
Feature Story - Negative Thermoforming
Feature Story - Cockpit Modules
Feature Story - Systems Integration Helps Deliver Just-in-Time
Feature Story - Mold-in-Color Instrument Panel
Capabilities - GENPAD®
Capabilities - In-Line Vehicle Sequencing
Capabilities - Instrument Panel Manufacturing