US Patent:
20100295285, Nov 25, 2010
Inventors:
Haruyuki Dei - Ann Arbor MI, US
Robert Joseph Panek - Canton MI, US
Phouvadol Peter Khouphongsy - Saline MI, US
Assignee:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. - Erlanger KY
International Classification:
B60R 21/045
Abstract:
An instrument panel assembly having a locking feature. The instrument panel assembly includes an elongated member attached to a portion of the vehicle and extending towards the instrument panel assembly, a lower panel spaced apart from the elongated member, at least one clip disposed on one of either the lower panel or the elongated member; and a corresponding number of tabs disposed on the other of said lower panel or said elongated member. The clip and tabs are spaced apart from and registered to each other so as to lockingly engage each other and keep the lower panel in contact with the elongated member when the lower panel and elongated member are driven into contact with each other.