May 10 2004
Corus, has announced it is using advanced computer aided engineering (CAE) techniques combined with its extensive material expertise to help TKA Tallent Chassis optimise the design of future chassis suspension systems. The collaborative programme will help to reduce the time and cost of new development programmes.
Today, durability is one of the key design requirements for automotive chassis suspension systems. Historically manufacturers of these systems have relied on physical testing of prototypes to help optimise designs, which is time consuming and can be costly. In addition, with physical testing any durability defects are only identified late in the design process.
Reducing new model programme development time and bringing products to market faster is a major driver for vehicle manufacturers today. By using these advanced CAE techniques, TKA will be able to accurately predict the fatigue performance of an actual chassis suspension system much earlier in the design process.
Commenting on the benefits to their customers, Simon Flunder, managing director ThyssenKrupp Automotive Tallent Chassis Ltd said: 'With the help of these CAE techniques, various designs using different grades and thicknesses of steel as well as different combinations of weld length and location can be accurately analysed at the same time to provide our customers with a system that optimises component cost and weight reduction whilst ensuring durability and a safe margin for fatigue.'