Plastics Application Technology for Safe and Lightweight Automobiles

The automotive sector is looking for lighter-weight materials for improved fuel economy and post-consumer recyclability to foster environmental sustainability. Engineering thermoplastics offer the ability to tailor-make components from polymers, and to design parts for enhanced performance, new functionality, part integration, and elimination of secondary operations. Parts made from engineering thermoplastics can be manufactured within specified cost constraints, and using manufacturing methods that offer a wide range of production flexibility. Additionally, plastics offer greater styling, improved energy absorption for pedestrian and occupant safety, and enhanced performance over traditional materials, all while reducing overall vehicle weight. This book is focused on the use of plastics in automobiles, not just for traditional applications such as interiors and body panels, but for more advanced uses such as under-the-hood components. It provides application technology development for various aspects of automotive design concept design, CAD modeling, predictive engineering methods through CAE, manufacturing method simulation, and prototype and tool making. It is based on the research and real-world applications of the authors for the past decade. The team of authors describe the design and manufacturing aspects of energy absorbers, fenders, front-end modules, instrument panels, steering wheels, head lamp assemblies, throttle bodies, polycarbonate glazing, tailgates, and exterior components such as roof racks, wipers, door handles, and rear-view mirror assemblies using engineering thermoplastics for safety and reduced weight for next-generation automobiles. Readers will use the information in the book to gain an understanding of the design and manufacturing methodologies of plastics and how to apply them to their particular vehicle platform. It will be useful to experienced engineers, researchers, executives, and academics/instructors with an interest in use of plastics in vehicles to improve safety and efficiency. This information will help further engineering expertise about using plastics in automobiles so that they can be safer, lighter, and more energy-efficient.