ARENA2036 – FRP Lightweight Design by Functional integration: Method and Concepts

Abstract

In order to meet the requirements of the next generation of automobiles the major challenges have to be addressed during the conceptual phase of structural development. Hereby Fiber-reinforced Plastic (FRP) materials are playing an increasingly important role in further weight reduction efforts in the automotive industry due to their comparatively high specific mechanical properties in comparison to conventional automotive materials. Through integration of additional functions into the load bearing structures, secondary weight-saving potentials can be made accessible by eliminating redundant components. The conceptual work in ARENA2036 “Intelligent Lightweight Construction with Functional Integration” (LeiFu) aims for an integration of a variety of functions and components into the primary structures of an automotive floor module in order to decrease the overall part count and achieve a reduction in the total weight. Due to their specific design and manufacturing processes, FRP materials offer opportunities for functional integration on multiple levels during fabrication and assembly.