Patent ID: 6073987
Filing Date: 2000-06-13
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
An integrated modular instrument panel assembly for a vehicle body of the type having a forward compartment located toward the front of the vehicle and an occupant compartment located rearward of the forward compartment, the assembly comprising:a base module having a transverse, generally vertically extending first wall located between the occupant compartment and the forward compartment of the vehicle and a generally horizontally extending second wall, and one or more transverse, generally horizontal plenums disposed on said second wall above said first wall, said horizontal plenum providing structural support to said base module;an air distribution module having an air distribution plenum defined therein, said air distribution plenum providing one or more air outlets for selectively distributing air from said air distribution plenum to the occupant compartment of the vehicle, said air distribution plenum further providing structural support to said air distribution module; andwherein said base module and said air distribution module are integrally secured to one another thereby providing structural support for the vehicle body and further provide a separating barrier between the forward compartment and the occupant compartment of the vehicle body when said first wall is secured to the vehicle body.