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Simultaneous engineering methods are used to speed up the development of automotive parts. CAE (Computer-Aided - Engineering) techniques have been used effectively for single part and process simulation. The effectiveness of CAE can be inproved in the simultaneous engineering process. This paper presents the lessons learned from proper implementation of CAE in this new process.

Simultaneous engineering methods are used to speed up the development of automotive parts. The resultant production part must coincide with the design intent. Techniques of validating the production part geometry are presented for a sample plastic fender. These practices are extended to future computer-imaging techniques. The capabilities desired for future automotive part validation are described.

Rapid application of automotive brakes causes high temperatures with resulting thermal gradients in brake rotors. To analyze these components accurately, the inputs and heat transfer coefficients must be known. Transient thermal patterns measured on prototype parts were recorded on video tape using an infrared scanner. These surface temperature values give accurate temperatures and gradients which can be used as inputs for subsequent analysis methods. A pressure sensitive paper was also used to measure the pressure distribution on the rotor caused by flexibility in the rotor caliper, and mounting system.

Process Driven Design yields proven benefits in automotive product design. The use of plastics is expanding in the automotive industry. The designer requires a knowledge of the methods of processing plastic parts. This work provides this information by giving a brief description of plastic processing techniques. Included in this is an extensive table of processing techniques and current parts fabricated by these methods. Extension of the process to future automotive products is included.