Innovative platform concept for commercial vehicle cabins: Optimized approaches in respect of modularity, assembly, light-weight and aerodynamics, flexible applicable for commercial vehicles of tomorrow

摘要

New and specific vehicle requirements like future regulations for aerodynamics and direct visibility, safety, various propulsion systems as well as customer needs further increase the complexity of vehicles. So for the commercial vehicle cabins, modularity is a significant topic to realize the customer demands and the production aspects. Driven by that, MAGNA created the idea of a new cabin platform concept in order to fulfill the requirements, reduction of engineering and manufacturing costs under the aspects of weight optimization and increased comfort for the driver and his working environment. The already IP protected concept idea is based on a new platform module, usable for several applications, enclosed by different cap, door and exterior modules. The new light weight cabin platform module as a structural base for individual configurations will be equipped with the modular usable components like the dashboard system, carpet, seats, etc. In combination with different pre-assembled caps consisting of roof, rear wall and side wall the cabin will be completed and can be used for the selected applications. Due to the universal cabin platform, and with this usability for different vehicle manufacturers, a big "scale of production factor" can be generated. The OEM specific cap modules can be manufactured individually depending on the number of units, shapes and dimensions as well as material and manufacturing processes. Lightweight design is represented by the appropriate material selection and functional integration. In the case of a new variant or a facelift only exterior modules has to be redesigned and a new type can be realized in a quick and cost efficient way. By combining the different modules, the variant spectrum according application can be displayed in different cap variants for short and long cabs. These cabs can be applied for future commercial vehicles with conventional and alternative propulsion systems, also with extended front end for further safety and comfort optimization.