Abstract

In order to reduce blind spots during driving, a front pillar has been developed that enhances the driver’s diagonal forward visibility.Physiological and psychological studies conducted internally indicated the existence of a more favorable front pillar width that enables essentially a continuous field of vision between the front window and the side windows, and which would not induce a sense of visual incongruity to the driver.A new pillar structure was developed in order to realize a target pillar width, and at the same time maintain vehicle performance. The new structure uses ultra-high-strength hydroformed steel tubes as the main framework. Indirect spot welding and arc laser hybrid welding are used to mount the new structure in the body framework.

References

1. (1) Kinoshita, Y.: Shikaku no Nai Furontopirakouzou no Kaihatsu, JSAE Annual Congress Proceedings, No. 1-07, 20075072, p. 1-3 (2007) (in Japanese)
2. (2) Government Ordinance No. 320, Road Structure Ordinance, 15th article
3. (3) Matsumiya, K.: Ryogan Shiyatousou Kenkyu no Shinten, VISION Vol. 14, No. 4, p. 151-164 (2002)(in Japanese)

Author (organization or company)

• Yoshiharu HASEGAWA（Automobile R&D Center）
• Hiroshi FUJITA（Automobile R&D Center）
• Takeharu ENDO（Automobile R&D Center）
• Masaaki FUJIMOTO（Automobile R&D Center）
• Junya TANABE（Honda Engineering Co., Ltd.）
• Masaki YOSHIDA（MARUJUN CO., LTD.）

Publication Information

Article of Honda R&D Technical Review Vol.20 No.2 (116 - 124)

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Citation Information