Axiomatic Design of Automotive Roof Structures

The conceptual design process pertaining to conventional passenger vehicle roof structures is described using axiomatic design principles. Current roof technology and performance, to include passenger vehicles and rally cars, are discussed and analyzed with an emphasis on occupant protection. Functional requirements for optimization are listed. An order of design is deduced from the first axiom to reduce the complexity of the design process. Independent design parameters for improving the crush resistance and rigidity of the structure are clearly linked to functions to record the design intent at each level.