Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
to the
POSCO
Preussag
Rouge Steel
SIDERAR
SIDMAR
SOLLAC
SSAB
Stelco
Sumitomo
Tata
Thyssen
US Steel Group
USIMINAS
VSZ
VOEST-ALPINE
WCI
Weirton
Preface
1. Executive Summary
2. Phase 2 Introduction
2.1.
2.2.
2.3.
2.4.
2.5.
2.6.
2.7.
4. Styling
4.1. Approach
4.2. 2-D Styling Phase
4.2.1. Sketching
4.2.2. Clinic
4.2.3. Electronic Paint
4.2.4. Styling Theme Selection
4.3. 3-D Styling Model
4.3.1. Surface Release
4.4. Rendering
7.2.3.
7.3. Tailor
7.3.1.
7.3.2.
7.3.3.
Material Documentation
Welded Blanks
Selection of Welding Process
Weld Line Layout
Production Blank Layout
7.4. Hydroforming
7.4.1. General Process Description
7.4.2. Benefit for the Project
7.4.3. Forming Simulation (Review)
7.4.4. Tube Manufacturing
7.4.5. Process Steps for Rail Side Roof
7.4.6. Results
7.5. Hydromechanical Sheet Forming
7.5.1. General Process Description
7.5.2. Benefit for the Project
7.5.3. Process Limitations
7.5.4. Results
8. Parts Manufacturing
8.1.
8.2.
8.3.
8.4.
Supplier Selection
Simultaneous Engineering
Part Manufacturing Feasibility
Quality Criteria
9. DH Build
9.1. Introduction
9.2. Joining Technologies
9.2.1. Laser Welding
9.2.2. Spot Welding
9.2.3. Active Gas Metal Arc Welding (MAG)
9.2.4. Adhesive Bonding
9.3. Flexible Modular Assembly Fixture System
9.4. Design of Assembly Fixtures
9.5. DH Build
9.5.1. Assembly Team
9.5.2. Build of the Test Unit
9.5.3. Build of DH #2 to DH #13
9.6. Quality
9.6.1. Body Quality Control Team
9.6.2. Quality Control Measurements of DHs
9.7. Conclusion
10.3.2. Results
10.3.2.1. Static Torsion
10.3.2.2. Static Bending
1. Parts Book
1.1.
1.2.
1.3.
1.4.
1.5.
Exploded View
Index Parts Book Sheets
Parts Book Sheets
Index Parts book, Brackets & Reinforcements
Parts Book Sheets Brackets & Reinforcements
2. Part Drawings
2.1.
2.2.
2.3.
2.4.
Exploded View
Parts List Sorted by Part Number
Parts List Sorted by Material Grade
Part Drawings
3. Typical Sections
3.1. Overview Illustration
3.2. Index Typical Sections
3.3. Typical Section Sheets
4. Assembly
4.1.
4.2.
4.3.
4.4.
4.5.
4.6.
4.7.
Assembly Tree
Index Weld Assemblies
Weld Assembly Drawings
Assembly Sequence Illustrations
Index Bolted and / or Bonded Assemblies
Assembly Drawings, Bolted and / or Bonded Parts
Assembly Illustrations Bolted and / or Bonded Parts
5. Package Drawings
5.1. Side View
5.2. Plan View
5.3. Front & Rear View
6. Economic Analysis
6.1. Assembly System Data
6.2. Stamping Process Sheets
Preface
In 1994, the steel industry, through the Ultra Light Steel Auto Body Consortium
(ULSAB), commissioned Porsche Engineering Services, Inc. (PES) to conduct a
concept phase (Phase 1) of the ULSAB project to determine if a substantially lighter
steel body structure could be designed.
In September 1995, worldwide auto industry attention was focused on the study
when the results of Phase 1 were announced. The results also affected the growth
of the ULSAB Consortium to 35 member steel companies, representing 18 nations
worldwide.
Encouraged by the results of Phase 1, the ULSAB Consortium once again
commissioned PES to continue with Phase 2, the validation of the Phase 1
concepts, culminating in the build of the demonstration hardware. Phase 2 proved
that the weight reduction, predicted in Phase 1, could be achieved. The use of high
strength steels, tailor welded blanks, hydroforming and laser welding in assembly
were particular challenges to overcome in Phase 2. ULSAB Consortium members
committed themselves to supplying all steel materials, as well as the tailor welded
blanks and raw materials for hydroforming, for all parts to be manufactured.
The focus of Phase 2 was the same as in Phase 1, i.e., weight reduction without
compromising safety or structural performance. Without altering the aggressive
targets for mass and structural performance, the safety requirements were
increased in Phase 2 in response to growing industry and government concern for
increased auto safety. It was imperative to keep up with safety requirement
changes that occurred during the course of the program, which ran from spring
1994 to spring 1998. As a result, it was necessary to analyze the ULSAB structure
for offset crash behavior. With this new challenge, and valuable input gathered in
discussions with OEMs during the presentation of Phase 1 findings, PES and the
ULSAB Consortium commenced Phase 2.
Preface - Page 1
Phase 2 ended in Spring 1998 with the debut of the ULSAB demonstration hardware
and will prove the Phase 1 concept to be not only feasible, but that performance
targets will be exceeded by 60% for torsional rigidity, 48% for bending rigidity and
50% for the normal mode frequency. Relative to the benchmark average, mass
reduction remained at 25%, while crash analysis showed excellent results for the
selected crash analysis events, including the offset crash.
As a result of Phase 2, the use of high strength steels in the ULSAB demonstration
hardware structure has now increased to 90% relative to its mass. The trend
toward using high strength steel and new technologies to reduce body structure
mass while improving safety, can be seen already in recently launched cars. The
new Porsche Boxster, for example, uses 30% high strength steel, as well as tailored
blanking, hydroforming and laser welding in assembly.
Cost analysis in Phase 1 was conducted by IBIS Associates under contract to the
ULSAB Consortium. In Phase 2, a more detailed cost analysis study was
conducted, under the supervision of PES with the support of ULSAB consortium
member companies. With the detailed information provided with the concept
validation in Phase 2, a new cost model was created and the cost to produce the
ULSAB structure was analyzed. The results show that it is possible to reduce the
mass of body structures without cost penalty.
Preface - Page 2
1. Executive Summary
1. Executive Summary
Introduction
On behalf of an international Consortium of 35 of the worlds leading sheet-steel
producers from 18 countries, Porsche Engineering Services, Inc. (PES) in Troy,
Michigan, was responsible for the program management, design, engineering, and
the building of the demonstration hardware (DH). In addition, PES conducted the
economic analysis study for the Ultra Light Steel Auto Body (ULSAB) program.
Program Goal
The goal of the ULSAB program was to develop a light-weight body structure design
that is predominantly steel. This goal included:
Program Structure
In order to achieve the above-mentioned goals the program was structured in three
phases:
Chapter 1 - Page 1
Phase 1 Concept
In September 1995, the results of Phase 1 were published. In this phase, the
ULSAB program concentrated on developing design concepts for light-weight body
structures and validating crashworthiness. Based on benchmarking data, the
performance of a future reference vehicle was predicted and the structural
performance targets for the ULSAB structure, excluding doors, rear deck lid, hood
and front fenders were established. Because the ULSAB program focuses on mass
reduction, a much more aggressive target was set for mass than for the other
structural performance targets. These targets were:
Performance
ULSAB
Targets*
Mass
[ 200 kg
Future Reference
Vehicle Prediction
250 kg
m 13000 Nm/deg
13000 Nm/deg
m 12200 N/mm
12200 N/mm
m 40 Hz
40 Hz
* All targets were set for body structure with glass, except the target for mass
For the concept validation, the following crash analysis was performed in Phase 1:
Performance
Phase 1 Results*
Mass
Static torsional rigidity
205 kg
19056 Nm/deg
12529 N/mm
51 Hz
*Structural performance results were calculated with glass; the mass excludes glass
Chapter 1 - Page 2
With the exception of mass, the results exceeded the targets. Mass was calculated at
205 kg and slightly above the aggressive target of 200 kg.
An independent cost study indicated that, based on a North American
manufacturing scenerio, the Phase 1 concept could cost less to produce than
comparable current vehicle structures. This result, based on the relatively low level
of detail of the ULSAB Phase 1 concept, indicated that a light weight structure could
make substantial use of high strength steel, tailor welded blanks, laser welding in
assembly, and hydroforming, and end up in the cost range of structures of similar
size using a more conventional approach at a higher mass.
Phase 2 - Validation
The Phase 1 design concept and its structural and crash performance results
having had a relatively low mass, provided an excellent foundation for Phase 2 of
the ULSAB program. Based on the success of this Phase 1 paper study, and the
positive recognition by OEMs around the world, the ULSAB Consortium
commissioned PES to undertake Phase 2 starting in November 1995.
The overall goal of Phase 2 was the validation of Phase 1 results, culminating in the
build of the ULSAB demonstration hardware structure. The tasks and
responsibilities of Phase 2 for PES, besides the program management, were to
manage the necessary detail design, engineering, crash analysis, material
selection, design optimization for manufacturing, supplier selection for parts and to
assemble, test and deliver the demonstration hardware to the ULSAB Consortium.
In addition, PES was responsible for a detailed cost analysis based on the Phase 2
detailed design.
Chapter 1 - Page 3
Crash Analysis
During the course of the ULSAB program after the start in Spring 1994, the public
demanded increased vehicle safety, and governments reacted with new
requirements for crashworthiness. Therefore, the decision was made prior to the
beginning of Phase 2, to analyze and to design the ULSAB structure for offset
crash. This would enhance the credibility of the results. The AMS (Auto Motor
Sport) 50% offset frontal crash at 55 km/h was considered the most severe test at
that time and would represent the structural requirements an offset crash demands.
This test was then added to the Phase 1 previously selected crash analysis events.
For side impact crash analysis, a deformable barrier was used instead of the rigid
barrier as used in Phase 1.
The following crash analysis was performed in Phase 2:
All crash calculations indicate excellent crash behavior of the ULSAB structure,
even at speeds that exceed federal requirements. The front and rear impacts were
run at 5 mph above the required limit, meaning 36% more energy had to be
absorbed in the frontal impact. The offset crash also confirmed the overall integrity
of the structure. The roof crush analysis validated that the federal standard
requirement was met, partialy due to the hydroformed side roof rail concept design.
Package
At the start of Phase 2, as a result of various discussions with OEMs during the
presentation of Phase 1 results, the ULSAB package was re-examined. In order to
make the results of Phase 2 more credible, the decision was made not to consider
secondary mass savings. This resulted in significant changes in several areas of
the body structure.
Chapter 1 - Page 4
The relatively small engine specified in Phase 1 was replaced by an average size
3-liter V6, necessitating a complete redesign of the front-end structure, including a
revised front suspension layout and subframe design. The rear suspension also
was revised and the rear rails redesigned accordingly. Essentially, the whole
structure was redesigned, from front to rear bumper, but it still maintained the
structure features as developed in Phase I, such as the side roof rail and the
smooth load flow concept of front and rear rails into the rocker.
Styling
Using the revised package and the adjusted body structure design, styling the
ULSAB was the next challenge. Styling became necessary to create the surfaces
for the body side outer panel with its integrated exposed rear quarter panel, the
windshield, the backlight and the roof panel. The styling concept for the
greenhouse had to consider, in order to integrate, the side roof rail, as well as the
overlapping upper door frame concept. This door concept was chosen mainly for
cosmetic reasons; to cover the visible weld seams, in the upper door opening area
of the body side outer panel which were caused by the tailor welded blank design of
the body side outer panel. For the overall styling approach, the decision was made
to create a neutral, not too futuristic or radical, more conservative styling.
Styling was the first major milestone in Phase 2 and was performed entirely by
computer-aided styling (CAS).
Chapter 1 - Page 5
Phase 2 design until the requirements were met and new crash analysis models
were built. In the process of design optimization, which included material grade and
thickness selection, both static analysis and crash analysis were performed with
constantly updated models until the targets were met.
Throughout this process, simultaneous engineering provided input from the tool and
part suppliers, as well as from steel manufacturers, to ensure the manufacturing
feasibility of the designed parts. As a result of the simultaneous engineering
process, only minor design and tool changes were needed after the drawings were
released. When the first part set was completed, a workhorse (test unit) was built.
The validation of the test unit lead to further part optimization and, finally, to the
build of demonstration structures.
Suppliers
At the start of the detail design process in Phase 2, suppliers for stamped and
hydroformed parts were selected in order to be included in the simultaneous
engineering process. Among the selection criteria were quality, experience, skills
and location. Supplier flexibility and their willingness to explore new manufacturing
methods, utilizing material grades rarely used in these applications and to push the
envelope in the application of tailor welded blanks or in hydroforming technologies,
were as important in the selection process as their cost competitiveness.
Steel Materials
Steel Grades
Perhaps the most important factor in meeting the targets for mass and
crash performance is high strength steel. More than 90% of the ULSAB
structure utilizes high strength and ultra high strength steel. High strength
steels are applied where the design is driven by crash and strength
requirements. Ultra high strength steels with yield strength of more than
550 MPa are used for parts to provide additional strength for front and side
impact. High strength and ultra high strength steel material specifications
range from 210 to 800 MPa yield strength with a thickness range from
Chapter 1 - Page 6
Chapter 1 - Page 7
The best example of tailor welded blank usage is the body side outer panel. It
employs a fully laser welded tailored blank with different thicknesses and grades of
high strength steel. Careful placement of the seams in the tailor welded blank is
critical in order to minimize mass and facilitate forming. This consideration was
especially important in the body side outer panel because of its complexity and size,
its use of high strength steels and the integration of the rear quarter panel with its
Class A surface requirement. Mass reduction and the elimination of reinforcements
were key goals in the development of this one-piece design. The consolidation of
parts reduced mass and assembly steps.
Hydroforming
Tubular Hydroforming
The use of hydroforming should be considered as one of the most
significant manufacturing processes applied in the ULSAB program for part
manufacturing. The hydroformed side roof rail represents a significant
structural member in the ULSAB structure. The side roof rail distributes
loads appearing in the structure during vehicle operation, and in the event
of an impact, distributes loads from the top of the A-pillar along the roof
into B and C-pillar and then into the rear of the structure. The hydroformed
side roof rail reduces the total number of parts and optimizes available
package space. The raw material used to manufacture the side roof rail is
a laser welded, high-strength steel tube 1 mm thick with an outside
diameter of 96 mm and a yield strength of 280 MPa. The design was
optimized and analyzed for feasibility using forming simulation.
Chapter 1 - Page 8
Tooling
All tools for stamped parts are soft tools made of materials such as kirksite and
built to production intent standards. Tools used for hydroforming are hard tools
made of steel. In both cases, part manufacturing tolerances and quality standards
were the same as those used in high-volume production.
DH Assembly
Joining Technologies
For the final assembly of the ULSAB structure, four types of joining
technologies were applied. Spot welding is used for joining the majority of
parts. Laser welding became necessary to join the hydroformed side roof
rail to its mating parts. In addition, the rails in the front end structure are
laser welded for improved structural performance. Laser welding in body
structure assembly is already being used in mass production by many
OEMs. The active gas metal arc welding (MAG) process, with its
disadvantages, such as slow welding speed and relatively large heat
impact zones, was kept to a minimum and used only in locations with no
weld access for spot or laser welding. Bonding is used to join the sandwich
parts that cannot be spot or laser welded into the structure. For the joining
of the DH, about one-third fewer spot welds and significantly more laser
welding is employed than for conventional body structures.
Chapter 1 - Page 9
Assembly Sequence
For the DH build, the assembly sequence uses two stage body side
framing. The assembly sequence includes underbody assembly, body side
assemblies, roof and rear panel assemblies. All DHs were built in a single
build sequence.
Assembly Fixtures
To assemble the DH, a modular fixture system was used. The fixtures
were developed in a CAD system and the positions of locator holes were
then incorporated into the parts design.
DH Testing
Testing was performed on the ULSAB test unit structure to validate its structural
performance and mass. Included were tests for static torsion rigidity, static bending
rigidity, modal analysis and mass in various configurations, including some bolt-on
parts. Testing was performed at Porsches Research & Development Center in
Weissach, Germany. Physical testing for crash was not part of the ULSAB program
in Phase 2 and may be performed in a possible Phase 3, after the necessary
components are built and/or assembled into the ULSAB structure.
Economic Analysis
With the detailed information created in Phase 2 of the ULSAB program, the costs
of parts and assembly of the body structure were analyzed. Under the management
of a PES team, and with support from the ULSAB Consortium members, an
economic analysis group, comprising of analysts from the Massachusetts Institute
of Technology (MIT), IBIS Associates and Classic Design, a detailed cost model
was constructed that includes all aspects of fabrication and assembly. This cost
model will enable the automotive OEMs to calculate ULSAB cost based on their
own manufacturing criteria. Considering that the focus of Phase 2 was on mass
reduction and not on cost savings, the result of this cost analysis is quite
remarkable. It confirms that significant mass reduction of the body structure, in
Chapter 1 - Page 10
comparision to the benchmark vehicle average mass, was achieved with the use of
steel with no cost penalty.
Summary/Conclusion
Throughout Phase 2, timely execution of the program was critical. All parts
designed and released to our suppliers and all tooling and assembly of the first test
unit have been on schedule. With the data acquired from the validation of the first
test unit and subsequent testing, parts were refined and design optimization was
performed. Refined parts were then used to build the demonstration hardware.
Based on the testing of the demonstration hardware, the ULSAB structure shows
Performance*
Mass
Target
Results
[ 200 kg
203 kg
m 13000 Nm/deg
20800 Nm/deg
m 12200 N/mm
18100 N/mm
m 40 Hz
60 Hz
*Structural performances are test results with glass. ULSAB structure mass without glass
2. Phase 2 Introduction
2. Phase 2 Introduction
Chapter 2 - Page 1
All models were continuously updated to compare Phase 2 and Phase 1 results in
order to maintain the same performance standards.
Chapter 2 - Page 2
2.5. Materials
The ULSAB Consortium member companies provided all material-specific data
required to design, develop and construct the ULSAB body structure in Phase 2. All
materials used to manufacture parts for the DH build were provided to Porsche by
ULSAB Consortium member companies including the tailor welded blanks and raw
material (tubes) for the manufacturing of the hydroform side roof rail. In addition,
the individual ULSAB Consortium member companies supported the program with
data related to material selection and tailor welded blank development, as well as
forming simulation and circle grid analysis on selected parts in order to create a
feasible part design.
Chapter 2 - Page 3
Mass
Static Torsion
Static Bending
Modal Analysis
Physical crash testing was not part of Phase 2. This could be executed in a
possible Phase 3, with the necessary components, such as suspension, powertrain,
and interior available.
Chapter 2 - Page 4
Task Name
1996
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
1997
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Package Refinement
Styling (CAS)
Class A Surfacing
Design & Engineering
Economic Analysis
CAE Analysis
Design Changes
CAE Analysis (Iteration 1)
Design Changes
CAE Analysis (Iteration 2)
Design Changes
CAE Analysis (Iteration 3)
Release Long Lead Items
Tooling
Test Unit Build
Testing
Design Changes
CAE Validation
Tooling Adjustments
DH Build
Chapter 2 - Page 5
1998
Q4
Q1
Q2
3. ULSAB Phase 2
Package
Chapter 3 - Page 1
Ident.*
Definition
Measurements
W101
Tread - front
1560 mm
W102
Tread - rear
1545 mm
W103
W117
Vehicle width
Body width at SgRP - front
1819 mm
1767 mm
L101
Wheelbase
2700 mm
L103
Vehicle length
4714 mm
L104
Overhang - front
940 mm
L105
Overhang - rear
1074 mm
L114
L123
1447 mm
2631 mm
L125
2016 mm
L126
1281 mm
L127
4295 mm
L128
1595 mm
L129
H101
654 mm
1453 mm
H106
Angle of approach
14
H107
Angle of departure
15
H114
1001 mm
H121
61
H122
H124
59
15
H136
112 mm
H138
1091 mm
H152
170 mm
H154
188 mm
H155
311 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 2
Ident.*
Definition
Measurements
W3
1512 mm
W4
1522 mm
W5
W6
1544 mm
1544 mm
W7
350 mm
W9
370 mm
W20
350 mm
W25
335 mm
W27
W33
79 mm
83 mm
W35
136 mm
W36
132 mm
L7
418 mm
L11
412 mm
L13
L30
573 mm
1942 mm
L32
473 mm
L34
1043 mm
L38
266 mm
L39
21 mm
L40
L41
25
25
L42
93
L43
86
L44
118
L45
88
L46
L47
78
113
L50
780 mm
L51
894 mm
L52
48 mm
L53
832 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 3
Ident.*
Definition
Measurements
H5
519 mm
H6
495 mm
H10
H11
529 mm
798 mm
H12
810 mm
H13
67 mm
H14
40 mm
H17
645 mm
H18
H25
23
446 mm
H26
1011 mm
H27
1220 mm
H29
1033 mm
H30
245 mm
H31
H32
303 mm
49 mm
H33
66 mm
H35
75 mm
H36
49 mm
H37
7 mm
H38
H40
7 mm
468 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 4
Ident.*
Definition
Measurements
H41
88 mm
H42
21 mm
H49
H50
17 mm
1317 mm
H51
1339 mm
H53
137 mm
H54
105 mm
H55
43 mm
H56
H57
182 mm
72 mm
H60
19 mm
H61
1019 mm
H63
972 mm
H64
796 mm
H69
H70
743 mm
631 mm
H71
641 mm
H75
994 mm
H76
932 mm
H77
868 mm
H78
H94
781 mm
223 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 5
Component
Engine
Description
Remarks
V6
Average size
~ 3000 ccm
Engine Mounts
Total of 3
Radiator Size
.252 m
Exhaust System
Single routing,
1 catalytic converter,
1 muffler
Battery L x W x H
Drive Train
Transmission
Automatic - manual
McPherson
Twist beam
195/60R15
Spare Tire
Fuel Tank volume
Space saver
~65 ltr
Fuel Filler
On RHS
Routing in package
Bumper Front-Rear
Bolt-on
Steering
Cargo Volume
490 ltr
shock absorber
Hinges
Head Lamps
Interior
In package drawing
Cockpit
In package drawing
Pedals
In package drawing
Chapter 3 - Page 6
To define these parameters, three vehicle positions, which then depended on three
specific load cases, needed to be determined. The three load cases applied to the
vehicle were:
Curb weight:
The weight of a vehicle equipped for normal driving conditions. This
includes fluids such as coolant, lubricants and a fuel tank filled to a
minimum of 90%. Also included are the spare tire, tool kit, and car
jack.
Design weight:
Vehicle curb weight plus the weight of three passengers (68 kg each,
with luggage 7 kg each) with 2 passengers in the front seat and 1
passenger in the rear seat.
Chapter 3 - Page 7
To determine the vehicle position relative to the road surface under these load
conditions, the vehicle is positioned relative to zero grid Z-plane.
Z
R1
R2
Ground
X
Using the ULSAB data and the weights of the three load cases, the road surface
positions relative to the zero grid Z-plane and to the vehicle were calculated.
ULSAB Data
5
Number of Seats
2700 mm
Wheelbase
Tires
Front
Rear
195/60-R15
195/60-R15
Front
Rear
2.5 bar
2.5 bar
Pressure
Chapter 3 - Page 8
Weight
1350 kg
1575 kg
1850 kg
With the road surface positions relative to the vehicle, the underfloor clearance was
determined.
170 mm
190 mm
Design Weight
14
15
Design Weight
Chapter 3 - Page 9
14
185 mm
Design Weight
143 m m
Chapter 3 - Page 10
Figure 3.2.6-1 Distance to Operating Parts of the 5% Female and the 95% Male
Chapter 3 - Page 11
Eyepoints V1, V2
Eyellipse
Torso Line
Thigh Centerline
SgR-Point
Chapter 3 - Page 12
ranges into consideration. For the ULSAB vehicle, with a seat track travel
of 240 mm, a template for seat track travel of more than 130 mm was
used.
Point
V1
68
-5
665
V2
68
-5
589
Using vision lines through the eye points, the following vision areas are described:
Traffic
Light
Visio
n Ang
le min
. 14
Wiperfie
ld Angle
10
Transpare
nt Winds cr
een A rea
7
Through V
1 (77/649/
EWG)
V1
Horizont View Through V1
V2
Chapter 3 - Page 13
Visio
nA
rea
Visio
n Ar
ea B
A2
0 (
78/3
17 2
17
.2/E
(78/3
WG
17 2
)
.3/E
WG
)
V1, V2
WG)
2.2/E
8/317
)
13 (7
A
WG
a
Are
.3/E
17 2
Vision
/3
8
7
(
17
ea B
n Ar
Visio
Point
P1
35 mm
-20 mm
627 mm
P2
63 mm
47 mm
627 mm
The ULSAB structure has a seat track travel of 240 mm. Therefore the X-value has
to be corrected by -48 mm.
Since the torso back angle is 25 degrees, no further correction is necessary for the
X-value and Z-value.
The new coordinates for the P-points are:
Point
P1
-13 mm
-20 mm
627 mm
P2
+15 mm
47 mm
627 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 14
P2
+15 mm
SgRP
Pm
+47 mm
Horizontal Line
-20 mm
P1
-13 mm
Two planes are cutting the A-pillar in an angle of 2 and 5 degrees. In the front most
intersection, the horizontal planes S1 and S2 cut the A-pillar (Figure 3.2.7-5).
S1
S2
S1
Pm
S2
627 mm
SgRP
Chapter 3 - Page 15
V1, V2
P1
S1
S2
The point P1 is necessary to determine the A-pillar obscuration for the left side (for
a left hand drive vehicle). P2 is necessary for the right side. If P1 fulfills the
requirements, it is not necessary to determine the obscuration for the right A-pillar,
since the right pillar is farther away from the driver.
The template to determine the obstruction is shown in Figure 3.2.7-7.
P1
m
1 04 m
65
mm
E2
E1
er
nn
1I
S
n
c tio
Se
ter
Ou
2
nS
c tio
Se
Chapter 3 - Page 16
The point P1 on the template is aligned to the point P1 on the drawing. The line
Section S2 Outer is laid tangent to the most outer edge of the A-pillar section (S2),
including trim, door frame and door seal. The second tangent line Section S1
inner is laid to the most inner edge of the A-pillar section (S1), including trim, seal
and dot matrix. (Figure 3.2.7-8).
P1
220 mm
m
0m
29
340 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 17
98 mm
58 mm
)
ch
59 mm
53 mm
t
Clu
)
ke
Bra
mm
50
(
mm
48
3m
20
201 mm
53 mm
m
89
C
D
Chapter 3 - Page 18
A: Lower edge of the pendulum in the most upper level to the curb
weight vehicle position.
B: Upper edge of the pendulum in the most lower level to the design
weight vehicle position.
C: Overlapping of the pendulum to the bumper in extreme high
position.
D: Overlapping of the pendulum to the bumper in extreme low
position.
Front
467 mm
431 mm
91 mm
40 mm
Rear
467 mm
402 mm
89 mm
38 mm
Chapter 3 - Page 19
Chapter 3 - Page 20
Chapter 3 - Page 21
Chapter 3 - Page 22
Chapter 3 - Page 23
4. Styling
4. Styling
4.1 . Approach
The Phase 1 concept design of the ULSAB program did not account for any Class A
surfaces for the outer panels of the structure. To establish Class A surfaces in
Phase 2, a complete styling of the ULSAB vehicle was necessary in order to create
the surfaces of the roof panel, body side outer panel, the back light and the
windshield. Styling also provided the major feature lines for the doors, deck lid,
hood, fender and front and rear bumpers; these were needed for the development of
the mating structural parts. For Phase 2, styling also gave the ULSAB structure a
professional look and provided surfaces for further design studies in the future, i.e.
on hoods, doors, deck lids, etc. The styling was developed electronically using CAS
(computer aided styling), no clay models were used. With support from Porsches
styling studio, PES selected A. D. Concepts, a local source, to carry out the
computer aided styling in a simultaneous engineering approach with PES. At the
first team meetings of PES and A. D. Concepts, several elements of the styling
were discussed with a view to creating a 3-dimensional styling model. Using the
package drawings, important criteria such as overall vehicle proportions, vision
lines, bumper locations and proposed cut lines were specified. After the initial
meetings, a clearly defined vehicle architecture had evolved.
Chapter 4 - Page 1
Chapter 4 - Page 2
4.2.2. Clinic
In the first clinic, dozens of sketches were reviewed by the design and styling team
to determine which direction the styling would take prior to its presentation to the
ULSAB Consortium. With the best sketches selected, five separate side view
proposals and several different front and rear end treatments were developed.
Chapter 4 - Page 3
Chapter 4 - Page 4
Chapter 4 - Page 5
Chapter 4 - Page 6
Chapter 4 - Page 7
4.4. Rendering
After the release of the surface model, the CDRS model was prepared for
rendering. Model colors were selected in texture maps created to enhance the
overall appearance of the photo realistic rendering. Neutral backgrounds and
specific views were selected to create the first ULSAB styling images. To
incorporate subtle engineering changes in the model, the CDRS 3-D models were
revised and additional renderings were created. The models were enhanced further
by the addition of texture maps for items such as license plate and rear window
defrost. The 3-D model was imported back into StudioPaint 3-D to examine styling
changes to the front and rear lamp treatments. These changes were then
incorporated into the CDRS 3-D model and the final renderings completed, which
concluded the styling phase.
Chapter 4 - Page 8
Figure 4.4-1
Figure 4.4-2
Chapter 4 - Page 9
Chapter 5 - Page 1
No
No
Start
Phase 1
Package/Concept
Design
Phase 2
Package
Refinement
Create
Styling
Concept
Modify
Package/
Styling / Design
Modify Phase 1
Shell Model
Steel Supplier
& Part Supplier
Input
Modify Design
Material / Thickness
Adjustment
Meets
Static
Targets
Yes
Yes
No
No
Meets
Static/Crash
Targets
Create / Modify
Phase 2
Crash Model
Yes
Yes
No
No
Parts
Feasible
Yes
Yes
Build of
First
Test Unit
Yes
Yes
Meets
Static
Targets
No
No
No
No
Meets
Yes
Static / Crash
Targets
Yes
Create / Modify
Phase 2 Shell
Model
Material / Thickness
Selection,
Design Modification
Build of Final
Demonstration
Hardware
Using the Phase 1 package and concept design as the starting point, Phase 2 then
refines the package. This refined Phase 2 package was the basis for the first
styling layout, and in an interactive process, both were adjusted until the
engineering requirements were met. The styling was frozen and the Phase 1 shell
model was adjusted and analyzed using material thickness optimization to achieve
Chapter 5 - Page 2
the mass target while maintaining the structural performance goals. Together with
the selected suppliers and the Material Group of the ULSAB Consortium, the part
design was discussed and the material thicknesses were selected. With this
information, the design was revised and the Phase 2 shell model created, analyzed
and modified until all targets were met. New Phase 2 crash analysis models were
built and after the first analysis, design modifications, material grade and thickness
selection, further crash analyses were performed, until the results were satisfactory.
With the revised design and material selection, the shell model was updated and
the static analysis performed. The crash and static analysis models were
constantly updated as a result of information from tool, part and steel suppliers.
This was repeated until all results were satisfactory. The design was then modified
and the part drawings released to the suppliers. With the first part set delivered, a
test unit was built and the tests following provided the results for static performance
and most importantly for mass. The design was enhanced and material substituted
as needed. The process of shell and crash model modifications and analysis was
performed again to validate the design. After the final design was released to the
suppliers, parts were manufactured and the demonstration hardware built.
Part of this process included regular design review meetings (not shown in the flow
chart) of the design and engineering team as well as design review meetings with
the demonstration hardware build team, engineers and analysts at Porsche R & D
Center in Germany. In these internal PES meetings, technical problems were
discussed and design directions decided in order to prepare for the demonstration
hardware build and meet established deadlines.
Chapter 5 - Page 3
The ULSAB structure went through many adjustments and modifications in its
transition from the Phase 1 concept to its final design stage at the end of Phase 2.
This was due to added crash performance requirements, package issues,
manufacturing processes and material application limitations. The exploded view
(see Fig. 5.3-2) shows the demonstration hardware in the final Phase 2 design
stage with the exception of minor brackets and reinforcements. Bolt-on parts and
components, used in the analysis for crash performance, such as front and rear
bumpers, engine, suspension, subframe, shock tower braces, tunnel bridge and
fenders, are not considered part of the body structure and therefore are not shown
in the exploded view. However, the structure is equipped with important brackets
and reinforcements. Because tailor welded blanks can eliminate reinforcements,
fewer were required. Included in the demonstration hardware, as shown on the
exploded view, are the bolt-on front-end module and the dash-panel insert, including
the brake booster reinforcement.
Chapter 5 - Page 4
P a rt
No
P a rt N a me
001
350
1.00
1.613
002
350
1.00
0.485
003
008 A
350
350
1.00
1.50
0.489
3.013
350
1.60
350
2.00
350
350
1.50
1.60
350
2.00
350
1.50
350
350
1.60
1.80
350
1.50
350
1.60
(Bolted on)
C
009 A
B
C
010 A
B
C
011 A
B
3.037
5.470
5.500
012
350
350
1.80
1.40
2.096
013
350
1.40
2.061
014
350
1.20
0.153
015
021
350
210
1.20
0.70
0.150
5.830
022
Sandw ich
0.95
0.875
026
600
1.20
2.290
028
032
210
210
0.70
0.70
1.272
1.374
034
800
0.70
1.290
038
280
0.80
0.120
040
210
0.70
14.650
(Bolted on)
Figure 5.3.1-1
Chapter 5 - Page 5
P a rt N a me
042 A
Ma te ria l Ma te ria l
Actua l
Gra de T hickne ss
P a rt
(MP a )
(mm)
Ma ss (kg)
350
1.30
350
1.70
350
1.30
6.625
045
350
280
1.70
0.70
1.344
046 A
350
1.00
5.250
350
1.30
350
350
1.60
1.00
350
1.30
350
1.60
350
350
1.00
1.30
350
1.60
350
1.00
350
350
1.30
1.60
B
043 A
B
B
C
047 A
B
C
048 A
B
C
049 A
B
C
6.490
5.240
2.527
2.565
050
Sandw ich
0.96
2.107
055
210
0.65
1.305
057
060 A
Panel Back
Panel Body Side Outer RH
140
210
0.65
0.70
2.502
15.780
280
0.90
280
1.30
D
E
350
350
1.50
1.70
061 A
210
0.70
280
0.90
280
350
1.30
1.50
C
D
15.650
350
1.70
062
350
1.00
1.365
063
064
350
350
1.00
1.50
1.375
3.586
065
350
1.50
3.586
066
350
0.90
0.830
068
069
210
210
0.65
0.65
1.931
1.923
140
0.65
2.116
210
0.80
140
210
0.65
0.80
070 A
B
071 A
B
Figure 5.3.1-1
Chapter 5 - Page 6
2.194
P a rt
N o P a rt N a me
072
280
1.00
4.700
073
280
1.00
4.860
074
075
350
350
1.50
1.50
1.425
1.416
080
210
0.65
1.876
081
210
0.65
1.497
082
083
280
280
0.80
0.80
0.084
0.076
085
Panel Roof
210
0.70
8.680
086
280
0.70
0.813
087
090
140
140
0.70
0.65
0.773
0.662
091
Member Kick Up
800
0.70
1.397
094
(Bolted on)
350
1.00
0.567
095
096 A
(Bolted on)
350
140
1.00
2.00
0.575
3.457
140
1.60
Panel Skirt LH
140
2.00
098
140
140
1.60
0.65
0.434
099
140
0.65
0.437
102
140
0.70
0.098
103
104
140
420
0.70
1.20
0.098
2.712
105
420
1.20
2.699
106
350
0.90
1.297
107
108
350
350
0.90
1.00
1.297
0.838
109
350
1.00
0.830
110
350
2.00
0.526
115
116
350
350
1.00
2.00
0.464
0.335
117
350
2.00
0.339
120
350
1.20
0.250
122
128
350
350
2.00
1.00
0.244
0.056
130
350
1.00
0.129
136
350
1.00
0.100
140
142
210
350
0.70
1.50
4.240
0.224
144
Reinf A-Pillar RH
350
1.50
0.229
B
097 A
B
(Bolted on)
Figure 5.3.1-1
Chapter 5 - Page 7
3.468
P a rt
N o P a rt N a me
145
152
Reinf A-Pillar LH
Bracket Member Pass Through Upper Rear
350
350
1.50
1.00
0.230
0.145
164
350
1.00
0.115
165
350
1.00
0.115
170
171
350
350
1.30
1.30
0.309
0.312
172
350
1.00
0.127
455
280
0.515
456
457
280
280
0.549
0.515
458
280
0.549
180
350
2.00
0.333
181
188
350
350
2.00
0.80
0.341
0.250
190
350
1.20
0.104
(Bolted on)
Figure 5.3.1-1
Chapter 5 - Page 8
196.770
* *
* See Assemblies 455 - 458
* *
* *
* *
Chapter 5 - Page 9
ULSAB
Structure Mass
203.2 kg
Mass of Demonstration
Hardware (Parts)
=
196.8 kg
Chapter 5 - Page 10
6.4 kg
Nam e
Qty
0.060
332/333
0.528
334/335
0.228
0.412
336
337
0.089
0.242
340
0.236
341
0.236
342/343
0.656
344/345
338/339
0.548
346
0.445
N/A
0.300
19
3.980
TOTAL
Figure 5.3.2-2
Nam e
Qty
310
0.086
311
0.134
312/313
0.050
314/315
0.116
316/317
0.418
318
0.032
319
0.041
320
0.271
321
0.106
322
0.030
323
0.146
324
0.028
325
0.298
326
0.140
327
0.068
328
0.278
329
0.035
330
0.136
31
2.413
TOTAL
Figure 5.3.2-3
Chapter 5 - Page 11
Mass of Brackets,
Reinforcements, Bolt-on Parts,
DH Mass
196.8 kg
186.6 kg
Chapter 5 - Page 12
10.2 kg
Nam e
Qty
Mass [Kg]
038
0.120
110
0.526
120
0.250
122
0.244
136
0.100
142
0.224
144
Reinf A-Pillar RH
0.229
145
Reinf A-Pillar LH
0.230
164
0.115
165
0.115
176
Hinge Base RH
0.650
177
Hinge Base LH
0.650
178
0.379
179
0.449
172
0.127
190
0.104
33 parts
4.512
Figure 5.3.3-2
Nam e
Qty
Mass [Kg]
0.335
116
117
0.339
180
0.333
181
0.341
4 parts
1.348
Figure 5.3.3-3
Nam e
Qty
Mass [Kg]
001
1.613
022
0.875
094
0.567
095
0.575
115
0.464
188
Brace Radiator
0.250
7 parts
4.344
Figure 5.3.3-4
Chapter 5 - Page 13
6.4 kg
4.35 kg
1.35 kg
4.5 kg
Brackets welded to
body structure
Reinforcements welded to
body structure
Chapter 5 - Page 14
Phase 1
Assumed theoretical
mass of brackets &
reinforcements
Phase 2
6.4 kg
12 kg
}
}
Brackets, reinforcements
& bolt-on parts included in
demonstration hardware (10.2 kg)
Concept
Validation
193 kg
Body
structure
Mass
ULSAB
Structure 205 kg
Mass
+
+
+
+
+
+
196.8 kg
Offset crash
Offset crash
Package refinement
Package refinement
Styling
Styling
Body
Structure
Mass
ULSAB
Structure 203.2 kg
Mass
1%
Chapter 5 - Page 15
Mass of
Demonstration
Hardware
The tubular hydroforming process for the side roof rail manufacturing
The hydromechanical sheet forming process, for the roof panel
manufacturing.
The spare tire tub and the dash panel insert are designed to be manufactured from
steel sandwich material, also using the stamping process.
Chapter 5 - Page 16
The mass of the stamped parts made from steel sandwich material is 1.5% relative
to the overall mass. 1.5% are miscellaneous parts, stock materials, such as tubes,
or the forged hinge base of the weld through hinges.
The pie chart in Fig. 5.3.6-1 shows the mass distribution of the manufacturing
processes relative to the DH mass.
The process used to manufacture the parts is shown in Fig. 5.3.6-2.
89.2% Stampings
9.3% Hydroforming Parts
1.5% Misc.(Stock Material) Parts
1.5% Miscellaneous
Chapter 5 - Page 17
* *
* *
Chapter 5 - Page 18
* *
* *
Chapter 5 - Page 19
Figure 5.3.7-1
Chapter 5 - Page 20
140 MPa
210 MPa
280 MPa
350 MPa
420 MPa
> 550 MPa Ultra High Strength Steel
Steel Sandwich Material
* *
* *
* *
* *
Chapter 5 - Page 21
140 MPa
210 MPa
280 MPa
350 MPa
420 MPa
>550 MPa
Steel Sandwich Material
25.1%
10.8%
10.9%
9.1%
7.6%
3.0%
4.2%
0.8%
0.65 0.70
2.1%
8.4% 7.6%
3.0%
4.4%
0.80 0.90 1.00 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.80 2.00
Material Thickness
Figure. 5.3.8-1
Chapter 5 - Page 22
1.5% 1.5%
Sandwich Misc
Chapter 5 - Page 23
Figure 5.4.1.2-1 Part no. 81 Panel Package Tray Lower with Scalloped Flanges
The design is similar to the scalloped flanges used in production of the Porsche 911
and Boxster. The second reason for scalloping weld flanges was to create two sheet
spot welding where three sheet spot welding would have been applied, otherwise.
Scalloped flanges were applied to parts not critical for sealing and not sensitive to
crash or durability. The mass reduction achieved with scalloped flanges on the
selected parts, based on the calculated part mass equals 0.43 kg. (Fig. 5.4.1.2-4)
The flange geometry is shown in Fig. 5.4.1.2-2. The layout for a two sheet weld
flange and a three sheet weld flange with scalloped flanges is shown in Fig. 5.4.1.2-3.
Chapter 5 - Page 24
Flange Geometry
Chapter 5 - Page 25
Part
Number
Part Name
21
Panel Dash
6.180
6.140
0.040
28
1.400
1.326
0.074
40
15.934
15.892
0.042
45
1.486
1.440
0.046
55
1.450
1.424
0.026
68
2.141
2.110
0.031
69
2.141
2.110
0.031
81
1.700
1.594
0.106
140
4.330
4.298
0.032
0.428
Chapter 5 - Page 26
Mass reduction
Manufacturing and tooling
Assembly
Material specifications
Crash performance
Package
Styling
The overview of design changes as shown in Fig. 5.4.2-1, names the parts or areas
of the structure, the design change and the reason for the different solution or
change from Phase 1 to Phase 2.
Chapter 5 - Page 27
Part / Location
Area
Description
of Change
Reason
for Change
Rear Rails
Front Rails
Mass reduction
Panel Skirt
Package Tray
10
B-Pillar Joint
11
Joint modified
12
Panel Back
13
Design refinements
14
Welded
Figure 5.4.2-1
Chapter 5 - Page 28
Structural Performances
Targets
13000 Nm/deg
12200 N/mm
40 Hz
Figure 6.1-1 Load cases and targets for static and dynamic stiffness
Chapter 6 - Page 1
distance of about 50 mm. The CAE configuration for the static and dynamic
simulations consist of the following parts:
The deformed shapes for the load cases torsion and bending are shown in the
Figures 6.2.1-1 and 6.2.2-1. To view the stiffness distribution vs. the x-axis, the
diagrams 6.2.1-2 (torsion) and 6.2.1-3 (bending) are used. The derivation vs. the
x-axis for torsion (Fig. 6.2.1-3) and bending (Fig.6.2.2-3) as well as the strain
energy contour plots (Fig. 6.2.1-4 and Fig. 6.2.2-4) show the sensitive areas. The
colored areas of the strain plots show the elastic energy, which is a result of the
Chapter 6 - Page 2
deformation stored in the structure, as internal energy. The deformed shape of the
dynamic stiffness simulation, the normal modes are shown in the Figures 6.2.3-1 to
6.2.3-3. The deformed frequency mode belongs to the normal modes mentioned in
Table 6.2-2.
21310 Nm/deg
20540 N/mm
230.6 kg
202.8 kg
61.4 Hz
61.8 Hz
60.3 Hz
Chapter 6 - Page 3
21310 Nm/deg
Torsion Angle
0.08
Support
0.07
0.06
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.01
0
-0.01
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Shock Tower
Front
4500
5000
5500
Center, Spring
Attachment Rear
Support
0.02
0.01
0
-0.01
-0.02
-0.03
-0.04
-0.05
500
1000
1500
2000
Shock Tower
Front
2500
3000
Chapter 6 - Page 4
3500
4000
4500
5000
Center, Spring
Attachment Rear
5500
Chapter 6 - Page 5
20540 N/mm
Vertical Z-Displacement
0.25
Support
0.2
0.15
0.1
0.05
0
-0.05
-0.1
-0.15
-0.2
500
1000
1500
2000
Shock Tower
Front
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
5500
Center, Spring
Attachment Rear
0.4
Support
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
-0.1
-0.2
-0.3
-0.4
500
1000
1500
Shock Tower
Front
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Chapter 6 - Page 6
4500
5000
5500
Chapter 6 - Page 7
Chapter 6 - Page 8
For the rear crash (FMVSS 301) at 35mph only a half structure (Fig. 6.3.3-1) was
used. Fig. 6.3-1 shows the high level of detail for the FE-Model. To realize a
realistic crash behavior of the simulation, all the spot welds and laser welded areas
were considered in the models. To analyze the crash behavior, all crash-relevant
car components were modeled, such as:
The door concept used for all simulations was a typical two shell structure with an
inner and outer panel, an upper door reinforcement and two high strength side
impact beams at the front door and one side impact beam at the rear door.
A three point fixture with reinforcements at the hinges and the locks supported the
doors.
To reduce the model size for the roof crush analysis, the full model with reduced
contents was used (Fig. 6.3.5-1).
Chapter 6 - Page 9
Chapter 6 - Page 10
The vehicle mass was defined to be base curb weight plus two 50th percentile male
dummies with 113 kg of luggage. The crash mass of the vehicle was set at
1612 kg. The crash mass of the vehicle is calculated as follows:
Curb Mass
1350 kg
Luggage
113 kg
Dummies
149 kg
1612 kg
Because the analysis did not include dummies, injury assessment could not be
made. Injury performance is greatly affected by the structural crash and steering
column movement as well as by the knee bar design. Evaluation of passenger
compartment intrusion can be made by looking at deformation in the foot well area
(Fig. 6.3.1-4). Looking at the overall shape of the deformation (Fig. 6.3.1-2, -3 can
assess structural integrity).
Chapter 6 - Page 11
The AMS Offset undeformed and deformed shapes are shown in Fig. 6.3.1-2 and
6.3.1-3. The deformed shape in these figures is after 100 ms. The deformation in
the footwell area is shown in Fig. 6.3.1-4. The analyzed deformation is measured in
the foot well area where it is important to keep the deformations as low as possible,
because of the injury of the passengers legs.
The internal energy absorption diagram in Fig. 6.3.1-5 gives an overview of the
internal energy absorbed in the parts subframe, bumper beam, crashbox, front rail
and fender side rail after 100 ms. The diagram in Fig. 6.3.1-6 shows the load path
for the most important front structure components. The diagram shows the main
load path is the rail front. The fender side rail and the subframe have about the
same load level. The diagram, AMS Offset Crash Acceleration vs. Time (Fig.
6.3.1-7) shows an average acceleration calculated from the rocker LHS, tunnel, and
rocker RHS. After the contact between AMS barrier and engine, a middle
acceleration of about 25 g results in the passenger area. The Figure 6.3.1-8 shows
the function of the car deformation versus time. After about 90 ms the maximum
dynamic deformation is reached.
Chapter 6 - Page 12
t = 0 ms
t = 100 ms
t = 0 ms
t = 100 ms
Chapter 6 - Page 13
40
80
36
39
146
64
134
92
16
33
102
76
60
82
Figure 6.3.1-4 AMS Offset Crash Maximum Dynamic Foot Room Intrusion in mm
Subframe
26.9
Bumper Beam
17.3
Crash Box
5.6
Rail Front
37.6
Fender S. Rail
9.6
0
10
20
30
40
Energy (kJ)
Chapter 6 - Page 14
55
Subframe
Front Rail Ext.
50
Rocker
85
115
Rail Front
50
Fender S. Rail
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Force (kN)
30
-30
ax [g]
20
-20
10
-10
0
0
-10
+10
0
20
40
60
80
time [ms]
Chapter 6 - Page 15
100
600
sx [mm]
400
200
-200
0
20
40
60
time [ms]
Chapter 6 - Page 16
80
100
In the following table (Fig. 6.3.1-9), the AMS crash events vs. time are explained:
16.00
18.00
36.00
40.00
44.00
48.00
52.00
60.00
68.00
70.00
88.00
Chapter 6 - Page 17
This analysis shows good progressive crush on the barrier side (left), as well as
crush on the right, indicating transfer of load to the right side of the structure. This
transfer means that the barrier side is not relied upon solely to manage the crash
event.
This transfer also contributes to the preservation of the occupant compartment.
The intrusion of 146 mm into the footwell is minimal given the severity of this event.
The initial, early peak shown in the pulse graph should trigger air bag systems.
Peak deceleration of approximately 35 gs, a good result considering the severity of
this event.
Chapter 6 - Page 18
Chapter 6 - Page 19
The NCAP 100% Frontal Crash undeformed and deformed shape is shown in
Figures 6.3.2-2 and 6.3.2-3. The deformed shape in the figure is after 100 ms. The
deformation in the footwell area is shown in Fig. 6.3.2-4. The analyzed
deformations are measured in the foot well area where it is important to keep the
deformations as low as possible, because of the injury of the passenger legs.
The internal energy absorption diagram in Fig. 6.3.2-5 gives an overview of the
internal energy absorbed in the parts subframe, bumper beam, crashbox, front rail
and fender side rail after 100 ms. The diagram in Fig. 6.3.2-6 shows the section
force for the most important front structure components. The diagram shows that
the main load path is the rail front. The components, fender side rail and the
subframe have about the same load level. The diagram, NCAP Crash Acceleration
vs. Time (Fig. 6.3.2-7), is an average of accelerations at the rocker LHS, tunnel,
and rocker RHS. After the contact between barrier and engine it results a middle
acceleration of about 29 g at the passenger area. The Figure 6.3.2-8 shows the
function of the car deformation versus time. After about 68 ms the maximum
dynamic deformation is reached.
t = 0 ms
Chapter 6 - Page 20
t = 100 ms
t = 0 ms
t = 100 ms
80
80
85
70
79
94
70
58
73
62
45
51
50
52
40
Figure 6.3.2-4 NCAP 100% Crash Maximum Dynamic Foot Room Intrusion in mm
Chapter 6 - Page 21
Subframe
30
Rail Upper
12.5
55.3
Rail Front
Crash Box
Bumper Front
16
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Energy (kJ)
Subframe
49
Rocker
50
Rail Upper
41
Rail Front
120
45
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Force (kN)
Chapter 6 - Page 22
30
-30
ax [g]
20
-20
10
-10
00
+10
-10
0
20
40
60
80
100
80
100
time [ms]
sx [mm]
600
400
200
0
0
20
40
60
time [ms]
Chapter 6 - Page 23
The following table (Figure 6.3.2-9) shows the NCAP crash events:
16.00
21.00
35.00
37.00
50.00
51.00
67.00
This analysis illustrates good progressive crush of the upper and lower structure
and subframe. It shows peak deceleration of 31 gs, which is satisfactory
considering that this structure is designed with stiffer body sides to meet 50% AMS
offset crash requirements.
The pulse graph is sympathetic to current occupant restraint systems. It shows a
consistent rise to the peak of 31 gs then a smooth ride down to zero, indicating that
the occupant would experience controlled restraint. The initial, early peak should
trigger air bag systems. Low intrusion at the footwell indicates that leg damage is
unlikely.
Chapter 6 - Page 24
Chapter 6 - Page 25
Chapter 6 - Page 26
t = 0 ms
t = 100 ms
t = 0 ms
t = 100 ms
Chapter 6 - Page 27
120
X
X
53
X
X
73
38
X
4
33
Rear Rail
20.2
1.4
6.3
1.1
Bumper Rear
0
10
15
20
25
Energy (kJ)
Chapter 6 - Page 28
66
Rocker
50
Rear Rail
80
15
20
Spare Wheel
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
Force (kN)
30
ax [g]
20
10
-10
0
20
40
60
80
time [ms]
Chapter 6 - Page 29
100
sx [mm]
600
400
200
0
0
20
40
60
time [ms]
Chapter 6 - Page 30
80
100
The following table (Fig. 6.3.3-8) explains the rear crash events after impact:
20.00
35.00
40.00
44.00
48.00
52.00
56.00
86.00
This analysis shows that the structural integrity of the fuel tank and fuel filler was
maintained during the event, so no fuel leakage is expected. The spare tire tub
rides up during impact, avoiding contact with the tank.
Rear passenger compartment intrusion was restricted to the rear most portion of the
passenger compartment, largely in the area behind rear seat. This result is due to
good progressive crush exhibited by the rear rail.
Chapter 6 - Page 31
Chapter 6 - Page 32
The side impact undeformed and deformed shapes are shown in Fig. 6.3.4-2 and
6.3.4-3, with the deformed shapes shown after 80 ms of impact.
During the early stage of the impact, the outer door structure crushes, the B-pillar is
stable. As the impact progresses the rocker starts to buckle and causes also a
bulging of the floor section. At about 30 ms, the still stable structure of the B-pillar
is moved by the barrier inside the car and therefore the roof starts to bulge. After
40 ms the B-pillar develops an inward buckling. After about 64 ms the maximum
dynamic deformation is reached.
For the injury performance, the intrusion velocities of the structural parts, which
could come in contact with the passengers, are important. Figures 6.3.4-5 and
6.3.4-6 show the intrusion velocities of typical points at the inner front door panel
(No. 238) and the B-pillar inner (No. 235) (Fig.6.3.4-4).
The following Figures 6.3.4-2 and 6.3.4-3 show the deformed shape of the side
structure:
Chapter 6 - Page 33
t = 0 ms
t = 80 ms
Chapter 6 - Page 34
t = 0 ms
t = 80 ms
No. 238
No. 238
No. 353
No. 353
Chapter 6 - Page 35
No 353
10
9
8
Y - Velocity [m/s]
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
-1
-2
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
250
300
Y - Intrusion [mm]
No 238
10
9
8
Y - Velocity [m/s]
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
-1
-2
0
50
100
150
200
Y - Intrusion [mm]
Chapter 6 - Page 36
The following table (Fig. 6.3.4-7) shows the side impact crash events:
28.00
35.00
40.00
44.00
48.00
64.00
The body side ring and doors maintained their integrity with only 248 mm of
intrusion. The velocity of the intruding structure was tracked to determine the
degree of injury an occupant may sustain. The maximum velocity was only
8 meters per second. The event is considered complete when the deformable
barrier and vehicle reach the same velocity, in this case at 64 msec.
Chapter 6 - Page 37
Chapter 6 - Page 38
Chapter 6 - Page 39
127
35
30
Force [N]
25
20
15
10
5
0
-5
0
25
50
75
100
125
150
Deformation [mm]
Analysis showed that 22.25 kN was reached within 30 mm of crush. The structure
resisted the applied load all the way up its peak of 36.15 kN and continued to
maintain it quite well even after peak, when it dropped to about 28 kN at 127 mm.
The load was well distributed through the A, B and C-pillars and down into the rear
rail.
Chapter 6 - Page 40
test and results in higher HIC (Head Injury Criteria) values for the passengers, with
a maximum footwell intrusion of 149 mm for the AMS Offset crash and a maximum
acceleration of 30.4 g for the NCAP crash, the ULSAB structure shows a good
balance in these criteria. The results also document the high safety standards of
ULSAB, especially if one considers that the NCAP crash analysis was run at 5 miles
above the required speed of 30 mph and 36% more energy had to be absorbed.
The rear crash test requirements are addressing the fuel system integrity and low
deformation in the rear seat area. The analysis shows no collapse of the
surrounding structure of the fuel tank, contact with the fuel tank itself or the fuel filler
routing. Considering the fact that there was no rear seat structure the analysis also
shows a low deformation of the rear floor. For the rear crash analysis in the ULSAB
program, the requirement was raised from 30 mph to 35 mph velocity of the rear
moving barrier, resulting in an increase of 36% of its kinetic energy.
In the side impact crash test, good performance means acceptable intrusion of the
side structure at low intrusion velocity. For both criteria the ULSAB achieved
satisfactory results. The analysis shows a maximum intrusion of 250 mm and an
intrusion velocity of 8 m/s at the inner door panel and the B-pillar. It is assumed that
in a fully equipped car the intrusion will be even lower.
For the roof crush test the Federal standard requires the roof deformation to be
limited to 127 mm of crush and the structure to support 1.5 times the curb mass or
5000 pounds, whichever is less. The force requirement of 19500 N was already met
at 27 mm of crush. The continued analysis showed that the structure is steady and
peak load of 36 kN was met after 72 mm of crush. This result confirms the role the
side roof rail plays as important part of the ULSAB structure.
The ULSAB crash analysis has shown that reducing the body structure mass using
high strength steel, in various grades and in applications such as tailor welded
blanks combined with the applied joining technologies in the assembly, such as
laser welding, does not sacrifice safety.
The goal was to maintain the high standards of state-of-the-art crash requirements,
without compromising the ULSAB program goal to significantly reduce the body
structure mass. The crash analysis of the ULSAB supports that this goal is
reached.
Chapter 6 - Page 41
Chapter 7 - Page 1
Start
Phase 1
Package /
Concept Design
Phase 2
Package
Refinement
Create
Styling Concept
Modify Package/
Styling / Design
Modify Phase 1
Shell Model
Steel Supplier
and Part Supplier
Input
Modify Design
Material / Thickness
Adjustement
Meets
Static
Targets
Yes
No
Meets
Static/Crash
Targets
Create / Modify
Phase 2 Crash Model
Yes
Meets
Static
Targets
Create / Modify
Phase 2 Shell Model
Material / Thickness
Selection,
Design Modification
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
Parts Feasible
Build of First
Test Unit
Meets
Static / Crash
Targets
Yes
Build of Final
Demonstration Hardware
Figure 7.1.1-1
Chapter 7 - Page 2
Category
140 MPa
Mild Steel
210 MPa
280 MPa
350 MPa
420 MPa
This definition was chosen in order to standardize the steel grade definitions for the
ULSAB Consortium member companies since many countries are involved and the
standards are not the same around the world. This has to be seen together with the
goal that the ULSAB body structure could be built in every region of the world where
steel is available. This is also the reason that the suppliers of the material for the
DHs are kept anonymous within the ULSAB program.
The most suitable material for each part application was chosen with the assistance
of experts from the steel suppliers. This process was especially important for the
ultra high strength steel because of its more critical forming behavior. Different
materials such as dual phase (DP) steels are included in this group of ultra high
strength material parts.
There are several ways to achieve the 280 MPa yield strength level according to the
above definition. This could be done by using microalloyed high strength steel,
bake hardening or even dual phase steel. However it is achieved, the minimum
yield strength for the finished part has to be 280 MPa in each area of the part.
Other material qualities and material types could achieve the same or similar
results; therefore, several factors affected material selection including material
performance and availability.
Chapter 7 - Page 3
Chapter 7 - Page 4
Every delivered material had to be tested at the supplying source before it was
shipped to the part manufacturer. A test report accompanied the material until the
parts are finished. This is the basis for the Advanced Quality Planning (AQP) report
that was performed by the ULSAB Consortium. The test results are also considered
for welding parameter evaluation at the prototype shop.
Chapter 7 - Page 5
Chapter 7 - Page 6
This sandwich material shares many of the same processing attributes with steel
sheets, like deep drawing, shear cutting, bonding, etc. But, unfortunately, it cannot
be welded. Even mechanical joining like riveting, clinching or screwing, can be a
problem when the material has to go through the paint-baking oven. The core
material is softened by the heat and flows away from the area where a pretension
from a screw is applied. This may lead to a loss in joining strength.
Therefore, applications used in the ULSAB Phase 2 design were with parts made
from sandwich material that did not go through the oven. The spare tire tub is
designed as a prepainted module, preassembled with spare tire and tools. This
module will be dropped into place and bonded to the structure during the final
assembly of the vehicle. No additional heat has to be applied. Another application
of sandwich material is the dash panel insert, which was bolted and bonded into the
panel dash during final vehicle assembly.
Chapter 7 - Page 7
Because there was no application similar to the spare tire tub in the past, an
extensive forming simulation was performed on this part. Once the design was
adjusted using the results of the simulation, there were no major concerns about the
feasibility of the spare tire tub. After a small refinement of the best drawable radius,
the parts were determined to be manufacturable with no problems.
Furthermore, a physical test with the spare tire tub was performed to check the
fatigue behavior of this material for the application. Parts from the described
sandwich material were made and compared to parts made from solid steel sheets
of 0.7 mm thickness. A picture of the test installation is shown below in Fig.
7.2.2.4-2.
Chapter 7 - Page 8
The load signal that was applied was taken from Porsches proving ground and
adjusted to the situation of the ULSAB. The test concluded there are no restrictions
for the use of the sandwich material for the proposed application when it is
compared to a conventional design using a 0.7 mm solid steel sheet.
The parts that were designed for the ULSAB could be made up to 50% lighter than
those made of solid steel under similar dimensional and functional conditions. But,
higher costs for the sandwich material have to be taken into consideration as
compared to normal coated steel sheets.
Chapter 7 - Page 9
Chapter 7 - Page 10
The non-vacuum electron beam welding process is similar to laser welding in the
result of the weld seam geometry. This is due to the fact that it is a non-contact
process as well. The beam is a mass beam and the kinetic energy of this beam is
used for heating the material. The beam can be focused by a magnetic spool and
the diameter can be adjusted easily. The advantage of this process compared to
laser is the increased efficiency of about 90% compared to 10% when using laser.
But a disadvantage is that the electron beam creates x - rays. This influences the
machine design dramatically regarding total investment and material handling.
Therefore this process is not used extensively up to now.
Mash seam welding needs a narrow overlapping of the sheets which have to be
welded. The material in this area becomes doughy, not really fluid. During the
welding process the current flows from one electrode to the other one and by
resistance heating the sheet material becomes doughy. The electrode force then
mashes the weld area and the sheets are joined together in this way. This light
overlap and the joining process by force loaded electrodes results in a weld zone
between 2.5 and 3.0 mm. The coating maybe is affected in this zone negatively.
Furthermore, experience has shown that the surface of the weld zone, where little
caves and pinchers occur due to the mash welding process, may not achieve the
required corrosion resistance.
The laser welding process is used more and more widely. It is a non-contact
welding process, and the heat is brought into the material by a coherent light with
high energy density. In this way a very narrow weld zone can be achieved. There is
almost no influence on the corrosion resistance when coated material is used. The
main critical point on this process is without any doubt the need for very precisely
prepared edges of the sheet. But this problem could be overcome by todays
available precise cutting technologies or advanced fixing and clamping devices.
One of the biggest advantages is the possibility of a non-linear weld line layout.
Different combinations of laser sources and clamping devices are on the market
today. In many cases the sheets are moved relative to the fixed laser beam. This
may lead to a reduction of the cycle time of the whole process.
Chapter 7 - Page 11
Together with the fact that most of the newest installations for welding blanks are
laser equipped devices, and the positive experience of PES, has lead to the
decision to use laser welded tailored blanks on the ULSAB body structure
exclusively. The blanks were produced at different locations using different
equipment from the whole range of possible installations. The weld lines were
controlled during the joining process to maintain the following features:
All of these lead to the high quality of todays tailor welded blanks.
Chapter 7 - Page 12
The weld line layout is shown in the following pages for each part.
1.6
1.5 (350 MPa) (350 MPa) 2.0 (350 MPa)
1.6
(350 MPa)
Chapter 7 - Page 13
1.5
(350 MPa)
Chapter 7 - Page 14
Chapter 7 - Page 15
Figure 7.3.3.-1 For the Economic Analysis cost calculation purposes, the production blank
layout for the tailor welded blank parts was developed.
7.4. Hydroforming
7.4.1. General Process Description
Today, tubular hydroforming is a well-established process in automotive
manufacturing. When ULSAB Phase 1 began several years ago and hydroforming
was chosen as the manufacturing process for the side roof rail, the technology was
being used mainly for exhaust pipes and some front cradles. These had a much
smaller diameter-to-thickness ratio compared to the ULSAB side roof rail. But with
the focus on mass savings, it was assumed that hydroforming could reduce the
number of parts while helping to optimize available package space.
Chapter 7 - Page 16
The hyroforming process is described very simply as: put a tube between a lower
and an upper die, close the die, fill the tube with water and increase the internal
pressure in order to force the tube to expand into the shape of the die. However,
several things must be taken into consideration within this process technology. This
method will work only for straight tubes. In all other cases the tube has to be prebent or preformed depending on the final shape. The various steps necessary for
the manufacturing of the ULSAB side roof rail will be explained in the next section.
7.4.2. Benefit for the Project
As explained in the Phase 1 report, the use of hydroformed parts instead of
conventionally formed and spot-welded structures have certain apparent
advantages. Because of the absence of flanges, available space could be utilized
with higher efficiency (bigger cross sections were achievable). The homogeneous
hydroformed parts also provide an improved load flow in comparison to other
structural members made of several parts joined by spot welding. The side roof rail
represents a significant structural member in the ULSAB structure and provides an
optimal load distribution from the A-pillar along the roof into the B and C-pillar. This
is true for the static as well as for the dynamic behavior of the body structure. Also
the side impact and the rear crash support is affected positively. The interior of the
vehicle is well protected by the roll bar design of these two structural members
integrated into the body structure.
The hydroformed parts described in ULSAB Phase 1 already have led to similar
applications in vehicles that are on the road today. There is a high potential for
further steel applications on comparable parts that are loaded with high forces.
Other opportunities for hydroformed steel structures will be in the area of protection
systems for convertibles.
Chapter 7 - Page 17
As a result of this analysis the design of the side roof rail was modified so that
some bending radii were softened. Also some other areas were slightly changed in
order to prevent excessive material thinning or cracking during the forming process.
The forming simulation also led to the decision of using a separate preforming tool
(described in Sec. 7.4.5).
Chapter 7 - Page 18
Chapter 7 - Page 19
For the prebending process, which requires a tube with small tolerances and a
finished part with high strength, the following tube specifications were created:
Quality
Feature:
Material:
Yield Strength:
Total Elongation:
Uniform Elongation:
r - Value:
Welding Requirements
Welding Process:
Laser- or high-frequency welding
Weld Seam Area:
Outside of tube: Undercut 0.0 mm, no expansion
Inside of Tube: Undercut < 0.2 mm, no expansion
No mismatch of edges
Free of any porosity
Strength similar to base material
Chapter 7 - Page 20
Tube
Section A - A
Moving direction of
outer tool part
Chapter 7 - Page 21
Chapter 7 - Page 22
The final step is the hydroforming process itself. During the down movement of the
upper half of the die there is another area preformed again (under low internal
pressure) on the tube. This must be done because the hydroforming process is
very sensitive to die locking. Once the die is finally closed, the internal pressure is
increased and the side roof rail tube is calibrated into its final shape. The pressure
has to be raised to 900 bar for the side roof rail in order to set the final shape of the
part. This required a closing force of about 3200 tons. This internal calibration
pressure was higher than predicted by calculation and forming simulation. A picture
of the hydroforming tool is shown in Fig. 7.4.5-4.
Chapter 7 - Page 23
7.4.6. Results
Hydroforming has never been used previously to form a high strength steel tube
with such a high diameter-to-wall-thickness ratio. Nevertheless the goal to
manufacture the side roof rails was achieved. There is still room for improvement,
but the main problems related to the bending and preforming operations were
resolved. Hydroforming will be only a calibration operation if all-important steps
before this were optimized. With the experience gained from the ULSAB Phase 2,
producing similar hydroformed applications should be easier in the future.
Chapter 7 - Page 24
Blankholder Cylinder
Slide
Blankholder
Moving Balster
Chapter 7 - Page 25
In the second stage, the die is closed and the blankholder clamps the blank. The
die punch has a defined, part specific regress against the clamped blank, as in
figure 7.5.1-2. A pressure intensifier is used to introduce the water emulsion into
the water box, where a pre-set pressure is generated. The blank is inflated in a
controlled manner and stretched over the complete area until it is pressed against
the punch. This is the reason why the process is called active hydromechanical
sheet metal forming. Forming with fluids (or flexible rubber layers) is well known
already, but previously there was no forming in the opposite direction within those
processes. The plastic elongation produces a work-hardening effect, especially in
the center of the part. This effect significantly improves the dent resistance of the
formed part.
Chapter 7 - Page 26
Once the first plastic elongation process is done, the draw punch is moved
downward, as in figure 7.5.1-3. At the same time, the emulsion is evacuated from
the water box and the pressure of the fluid is lowered in a controlled process. After
completion of the drawing operation, pressure is increased once more in order to
calibrate the part into the final shape. The later visible surface of the part (outer
side) is turned towards the active fluid medium. There is no contact to metal on this
surface and an excellent surface quality of the part was achieved.
Chapter 7 - Page 27
Chapter 7 - Page 28
and the conventionally used second half of the die makes the result of the
simulation very reliable. Furthermore, the process parameters, (e.g., preforming
pressure, etc.) could be easily adjusted.
Chapter 7 - Page 29
7.5.4. Results
Roof panels for the ULSAB could be manufactured by using the active
hydromechanical sheet metal forming process. Different material qualities, like
isotropic, IF and bake-hardening types, were formed successfully. Due to the workhardening effect, which was applied through the above-described process, the sheet
thickness of the roof panel could be lowered to 0.7 mm, while the dent resistance
requirements were still met.
In order to limit the needed locking force of the press, the flange radii should be
designed not too small. The radii are directly related to the needed pressure during
the final forming operation, and if too small lead to an uneconomic high-locking
force/press size. The surface quality on the visible side of the ULSAB roof panel,
which was not in contact with any metal tool, was very high compared to
conventional formed (prototype) parts.
Chapter 7 - Page 30
8. Parts Manufacturing
8. Parts Manufacturing
Chapter 8 - Page 1
Number of Employees
Company Name
Address
Autodie International
700+
Major products
Other Divisions
Customers
Progressive Tool
WISNE Design
WISNE Design - Die Technology
WISNE Automation
Eagle Engineering
Freeland Manufacuturing
+ Others
Chapter 8 - Page 2
Ford
Chrysler
Tower
Spartanburg
Navistar
Cambridge
Major Equipment
GM
Jaguar
BMW
Karmax
Haworth
Presses up to 3000 t
Bed Size to 200 x 100
4 CMM
5 Axis Control Laser
1 Lamoine Machine System
CNC Mills
PDGS
CGS
CATIA
Company Name
Number of Employees
Address
160
Major products
Prototype Tooling
Stampings and Assemblies
Doors Inner / Outer
Cowls, Fenders, Deck Lids
Roof Panels and Floor Panels
Other Divisions
Customers
Major Equipment
Ford
GM
Dana
Tower
Ogihara
Honda
Spartanburg
Presses up to 1500 t
Bed size to 192 x 79
3 CMM
5 Axis Control Laser
Foundry
3 CNC Mills
PDGS
CGS
CATIA
Number of Employees
Company Name
Address
95
Major products
Prototype Tools
Stampings and Assemblies
Specializing in Underbody, Front Structures
and Inner Structures
Other Divisions
Hubert Group
Sharp Mold Engine
M & T Design Services
Models & Tools
Customers
GM
Ford
Chrylser
AG Simpson
Veltri
Narmco
Major Equipment
Presses up to 1700 t
Bed size to 144 x 132
2 CMM
6 Axis Laser
NC Machining
CATIA
PDGS
CGS
Unigraphics
Chapter 8 - Page 3
Company Name
Address
Stickel GmbH
Number of Employees
40
Major products
Prototype Build
Prototype Tooling, Prototype Stampings
Low Volume Production Stampings and Subassemblies
Other Divisions
Customers
None
Audi
BMW
Mannesmann
Mercedes Benz
Opel AG
Porsche AG
Major Equipment
Presses up to 800 t
Bed sizes up to 2m x 3m
3D Laser
CMM Equipment
CATIA
CGS
Number of Employees
Company Name
Address
135
Major products
Other Divisions
Customers
Tool Shop
FEM Forming Simulation
Hydroforming Componenets
Chapter 8 - Page 4
Audi
Aerosmith
GM
Benteler
Porsche
Major Equipment
Hydroforming presses to
3000t
10.000 t under Construction
High Speed Miling
Prebending Equipment
Chapter 8 - Page 5
Demonstrate that state of the art methods and technologies have been
used to develop the demonstration hardware processes, such as:
, Forming Simulation.
, Early Steel Involvement.
, Dies and fixtures developed from CAD, CNC Machining and CMM
Inspection.
Overall Assessment
Although the components of the ULSAB body structure certainly present a
significantly greater challenge to production capability than a conventional design,
we are convinced that these components can be fabricated with production capable
processes under the following conditions:
1.The process of continuous improvement that has been undertaken by Porsche
is continued, including additional soft die tryout and minor product revision.
2.With the use of the more sophisticated press equipment that can be made
available in hard tool construction: Multiple Nitrogen Cushions, Toggle
Presses and with the superior surfaces encountered in hard tooling.
3.With the implementation of further enhancements in materials, blank
development and binder development.
The team assembled to fabricate these components has made excellent progress
along the learning curve of fabricating with high strength steel and laser welded
blanks, advancing the state of the art. The prototype processes have undergone
significant continuous improvement toward production capability
Documentation Overview
The components on the ULSAB body have been classified into three levels of
difficulty or criticality. Level C being the most critical, level B the next most critical
and all other parts are level A. The extent of documentation provided for a given
component has been determined accordingly. The purpose of these documents is
to validate the objectives outlined in the introduction. These documents have been
assembled into a notebook that can be provided through the ULSAB Consortium.
Chapter 8 - Page 6
These documents are described below, followed by a list of B and C level parts. In
the pages that follow is an example of the detailed summaries for each individual B
and C level part that can found in the notebook.
Chapter 8 - Page 7
Level C - Most Critical: All level A and B requirements, plus the following.
Part Number
Die Shop
Level
040
Peregrine
042 / 043
Peregrine
064 / 065
Peregrine
046 / 047
Fab All
048 / 049
Fab All
070 / 071
Fab All
060 / 061
Autodie
026
Stickel
096 / 097
Stickel
010 / 011
Stickel
012 / 013
Stickel
Panel Dash
021
Stickel
Member Kick Up
091
Stickel
072 / 073
Schaefer
Panel Roof
085
Schaefer
050
Stickel
Chapter 8 - Page 8
Documentation
Forming Simulation
Strain Analysis
(Circle Grid, Thickness Strain)
Material Characterization
Process Set Up
(Set UP Sheets)
Proposed Production Process
Certification of Dimensional
Integrity (Warrant)
Inspection Report
Development Log. Demonstrates
state of the art procedures used to
develop capable prototype
processes & action plans for
making processes production
capable.
Observations and
Recommendations
Responsible
Format
Parts
Steel Co.
Select Parts
Steel Co.
Steel Co.
and Phoenix
Steel Co, Die Shops
and Phoenix
Porsche & Phoenix
Die Shops
AQP
B&C
AQP
Phoenix Summary &
Die Shop Set Up Sheet
Process Sheet
Die Shop Form
A, B & C
Die Shops
CMM or Checking
Fixture Report
Die Shops
Phoenix
Phoenix Summary
B&C
B&C
C
B&C
Chapter 8 - Page 9
Consider use of a wider blank. This will allow for better control of metal outside of
the kickup area by adding a more gradual transition in the addendum and binder.
This may also enable the use of patches of higher formability metal where they are
needed the most. This exercise would be well worth the effort, considering the
portion of overall weight represented by the floor pan, and the challenging forming
characteristics associated with it.
Consider ways of forming embossed areas as late as possible in the process, either
by using restrike die or by delayed action in draw dies, to avoid metal locking on
and/or skidding over embossed area when it is required for feeding deep formations.
Forming Simulation of first draw predicted wrinkling in tunnel near kickup. This is
one of the areas where wrinkling was encountered in tryout.
Chapter 8 - Page 10
First
Form
#15
Third
Form
#2
Chapter 8 - Page 11
Part Name
Supplier
Spc
Thk
Yield
Strength
Coating
Blank
Peregrine
0.7 mm
210 MPa
60G60GU
Rectangle
040
Document
Format
Status / Summary
Forming
Simulation
Steel Co
AQP
Material Test
Press
Conditions
Material Test
Final / Conam
Process Set
Up
AQP
Peregrine
Proposed
Production
Process
Dimensional
Check
Dimensional
Check
Warrant
Included
CMM Report
CMM detected points that deviated from nominal by more than +/- 0.5 mm,
however all were vertical and attributable to part length and flexibility, or
hammer formed flanges. No difficulty experienced in assembly.
Simultaneous Engineering procedures were used to develop the process,
and continuous improvement was implemented to evolve the process
toward production capability. Supplier concerns were fed back to Porsche
and product revisions were subsequently implemented. Summary of
development history and log of product changes is included. Also included
is sketch of part showing significant manufacturing related changes.
Strain
Analysis
Development
Log
Chapter 8 - Page 12
Chapter 8 - Page 13
Chapter 8 - Page 14
Chapter 8 - Page 15
Material
Engineering levels
Process control
Dimensional accuracy
Parts submission
Material: All material received was checked for dimensional accuracy by the part
suppliers, the steel suppliers provided the material characterization data which was
verified by an independent laboratory. Additionally, Porsche checked the material
for weldability.
Engineering Levels: A strict engineering change control system was implemented
for this program. At each weekly review meeting all product levels were checked
against the design status to insure compatibility. Suppliers were not allowed to
implement any change without the authorization of PES.
Process Control: As previously stated, the components were produced to
production intent standards. Therefore, to insure this occurred, regular audits of the
process were undertaken.
Dimensional Accuracy: For each component, automotive standard checking fixtures
were produced. These fixtures were used throughout the development process to
provide verification of dimensional accuracy. Additionally for all major parts, the
contract with the suppliers called for two fully CMM checked samples. As further
assurance, where possible, match checks were undertaken to insure fit and function
for the assembly process.
Parts Submission: The approval process was based on PPAP (Production Part
Approval Process) as outlined in QS 9000 guidelines. Before any part was shipped,
the supplier had to provide documentation that showed all material, engineering,
process and dimensional controls had been completed and met with the
specifications set within the program.
Chapter 8 - Page 16
9. DH Build
9. DH Build
9.1. Introduction
After ULSAB Phase 1 was successfully completed, the ULSAB Consortium decided
to proceed with the ULSAB program into Phase 2. This involved proceeding from a
conceptual study to the real world hardware, whereby the predicted mass savings
and improved performance could be proven by actual product.
Due to the experience in laser welding, Porsches R & D Center in Weissach,
Germany was chosen for the execution of the 13 DH builds.
Chapter 9 - Page 1
Roof
Roof
Audi
BMW
Ford
Audi
BMW
Ford
GM
Mercedes
Opel
GM Mercedes
Opel
Renault
Volvo
Renault Volvo
Volkswagen
Volkswagen
B/C
B/CPillars
Pillars
Audi
Mercedes
Audi
Mercedes
Decklid
Decklid/ Tailgate
/ Tailgate
BMW
Daihatsu
BMW
Daihatsu
Honda
Suzuki
HondaOpel
Opel
Suzuki
Volkswagen
Volkswagen
Hood
Hood
Opel
Volvo
Opel
Volvo
Doors
Doors
Honda
Porsche
Honda
Porsche
Front
Structures
Front
Structures
BMW
Mercedes
BMW
Mercedes
Chapter 9 - Page 2
The major reasons for using laser welding is the predominantly high static and
dynamic strength of the joints, one side weld access for the welding equipment,
small thermic impact zone and good aesthetic look at the joint area. The total
length of the laser welding seams for the assembly on the demonstration hardware
is 18.28 meters.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
14
15
16
17
(12)
18
19
(14)
(3)
10
11
12
20
7
5
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
Chapter 9 - Page 3
control
unit
power
unit
transformer
current measurement
voltage measurement
Figure 9.2.2-1 Configuration of a Welding System
Chapter 9 - Page 4
These control processes inevitably necessitate fast welding current sources. This
requirement is fulfilled by medium frequency inverters with a response time of one
millisecond at an inverter frequency of 1000 Hz and by the substantially faster
transistor DC technology.
weld current
weld current
medium frequency
inverter welding operation
(1000 Hz)
Figure 9.2.2-2
Chapter 9 - Page 5
Spot welding is used on ULSAB in all areas with suitable weld access and normal
structural loads.
The assembly of the demonstration hardware uses 2,126 spot welds.
Chapter 9 - Page 6
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
6 7
Chapter 9 - Page 7
Chapter 9 - Page 8
In the production line, the panel dash insert will be assembled to the painted body
structure as part of the instrument panel module. This includes the instrument
panel, steering column, air conditioning system and pedal system. The panel dash
insert is adhesive bonded and additionally bolted to dash panel. The bolting is
necessary to keep the part in position until the bonding material is hardened.
The panel spare tire tub will be assembled to the painted body structure as a
module including the spare tire and the repair tools. The module is bonded to the
structure. The operation does not require additional fixturing.
The bonding material is a two component, non-conductive, high modulus, high
viscous, chemically-curing polyurethane adhesive/sealant that cures almost
independently of temperature and moisture. It is Betaseal X 2500 produced by
Gurit Essex.
Chapter 9 - Page 9
Technical Data
Basis
Polyurethane prepolymer
Color
black
Solids content
>98%
(GM 042.0)
Flash Point
Processing temperature
Working time
>100 C
ideal 10 C - 35 C
approx. 10 min. at 23 C/50% r.h.
(Processing time)
Sagging behavior
Ultimate tensile strength
good, non-sagging
> 5.5 MPa
(DIN 53 504)
Percentage elongation
> 200%
(DIN 53 504)
Combined tension (GM 021)
W cm
(volume resistivity)
Abrasion resistance
Recovery (DIN 52 458)
Extremely high
approx. 99%
Temperature stability
Resistance to chemicals
Chapter 9 - Page 10
There are many advantages of this fixture system. 95% of the elements in a fixture
are from the standardized module system and can be used also for other car
programs.
Chapter 9 - Page 11
Chapter 9 - Page 12
The fixture design performed in CATIA was very efficient, because all models were
accessible from the CAD data bank. Therefore, the construction time for assembly
fixtures was reduced and modifications or corrections of existing assembly fixtures
could be implemented rapidly.
Chapter 9 - Page 13
Chapter 9 - Page 14
The second method is the utilization of a rolling device that supports the modular
assembly fixtures independent from set-up pallets. These assembly fixtures work at
any location.
Figure 9.3-5 Mobile Assembly Fixture - Shock Tower Front SubAssembly RH/LH
Chapter 9 - Page 15
Chapter 9 - Page 16
Assembly
Assembly
Assembly
Assembly
Assembly
Assembly
Chapter 9 - Page 17
9.5. DH Build
9.5.1. Assembly Team
The Porsche BIW assembly team consists of the following personnel:
1 foreman
1 expert/deputy foreman
23 workers which include 5 with foremans / technicians degree and 5
workers trained for CATIA
Chapter 9 - Page 18
Two applications with special interest for ULSAB will be described in more detail.
All spot welds on ULSAB were manufactured with a mobile Duering welding cart
and a Matuschek medium-frequency inverter device with master control system.
Figure 9.5.1-2
Chapter 9 - Page 19
The welding gun changeover system allows a rapid change between different types
of welding guns, whereby a special gun coding provides the correct weld
parameters from an automatic program selection.
Chapter 9 - Page 20
The laser welding and laser cutting cabin is equipped with a KUKA KR 125 robot.
The maximal load is 125 kg and the working range of 2410 mm.
Chapter 9 - Page 21
The laser source is a Rofin Sinar CW 025 Nd:YAG Laser. The maximum output of
2500 W is transferred through a switching device with two outlets via two 15-m
glass fibre cable of 0.6 mm diameter to the laser optic.
Besides a laser cutting head three different types of laser welding heads are
available.
Chapter 9 - Page 22
Chapter 9 - Page 23
Chapter 9 - Page 24
Chapter 9 - Page 25
Chapter 9 - Page 26
Figure 9.5.2-7 Sub-Assembly Body Side Outer, with Body Side Inner and Underbody
Chapter 9 - Page 27
Chapter 9 - Page 28
9.6. Quality
9.6.1. Body Quality Control Team
The Porsche Body Quality Control Team includes the following personnel:
1
2
5
2
engineer
technicians
foremen
specialist workers
In a working area of 300 m2 the following equipment is used for body quality control
measurement:
Chapter 9 - Page 29
Chapter 9 - Page 30
Nevertheless, the results of the test unit were used to develop modifications of the
tools for part manufacturing and of the assembly fixtures for improved quality,
meaning smaller tolerances for the following DHs. Each DH is or will be inspected
to evaluate a quality statistic for the ULSAB program.
Chapter 9 - Page 31
9.7. Conclusion
The assembled demonstration hardware proved to be a successful execution of the
body structure construction. The measured tolerances are in a comparable range in
relation to average car programs.
The challenges of laser welding in assembly, assembly of hydroformed parts, 90%
high strength steel, and steel sandwich material, were mastered. The principle
condition for success was the simultaneous engineering process. All project
partners contributed to the realization of Phase 2 of the ULSAB program.
Through early involvement in the project, all parties involved incorporated all of their
expertise into the realization of the demonstration hardware.
Figure 9.7-1
Chapter 9 - Page 32
Static rigidity
Static torsion
Static bending
Modal analysis
1st Torsion mode
1st Bending mode
1st Front end lateral mode
Mass
DH mass in test configuration
Chapter 10 - Page 1
10.2. Targets
The main factors affecting the ride and handling of the vehicle are Noise, Vibration
and Harshness, known as NVH behavior. To achieve the desired levels of comfort
for the occupants, the vehicle body must have high static and dynamic rigidity. In
other words, the auto body should have high stiffness. This is required because the
increased rigidity improves the vehicle resistance to excitement caused by the drive
train, the engine or by road conditions such as bumps and potholes. When excited,
the car body vibrates at particular frequencies, called its natural frequencies, and
also in a particular manner called its mode shape. The mode shapes are for
instance on: global torsion mode, global bending mode and front end lateral mode.
Another result of good rigidity would be minimal deviations in the dimensions of the
body structure openings such as the hood, front door, rear door and deck lid under
load conditions. These movements between the body structure and the closure
panels often create sounds.
Furthermore, it should be proven that the received numbers from the analysis by
FE-calculations are in correlation with the results gathered by the testing procedure.
Based on the current average of selected, benchmarked vehicles in Phase 1, the
following targets for the ULSAB structure were established:
Performance
Mass
Static torsional rigidity
Static bending rigidity
First body structure mode
Targets
[ 200 kg
m 13,000 Nm/deg
m12,200 N/mm
m 40 Hz
Chapter 10 - Page 2
Chapter 10 - Page 3
The unpainted body structure was measured without front and rear suspension
system. The body structure was held at four points: the front; at Panel Skirt RH/LH
(Part-No. 096/097) and the rear; at Plate Rear Spring Upper (Part-No. 110).
Along the front rails, the rockers, and the rear rails 12 stadia rods were attached.
Twenty-four electronic feelers measured the movements of these rods.
Aluminum panels with glass thickness were used to simulate the bonded windshield
and backlight. Due to the fact that the related material property for rigidity and
stiffness, the Youngs modulus, shows a close similarity for glass and aluminum.
This can be done without compromising the test results, but taking advantages in
timing and cost.
Chapter 10 - Page 4
The measurements were taken with four different loads from M =1000Nm to
t
M max=4000Nm.
t
Before starting the measuring procedure, the maximum load was applied to the DH
to eliminate the sag rate.
The measurements were taken with four different loads from F = 1000 N
b
(4 x 250 N) to F max = 4000 N (4 x 1000 N).
b
Before starting the measuring procedure, the maximum load was applied to the DH
to eliminate the sag rate.
Chapter 10 - Page 5
10.3.2. Results
10.3.2.1. Static Torsion
The torsional rigidity for the test unit in the configuration described in section
10.3.1.1 is:
With glass
Without glass
Chapter 10 - Page 6
21,620 Nm/deg
15,790 Nm/deg
Front Axle
15
4000 Nm
3000 Nm
2000 Nm
1000 Nm
10
-5
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
In general, the graph plot is running harmonic. There is only a jump in rigidity
between x = 3800 to x = 4200. This is related to the positive impact of the Member
Pass Through (Part-No. 090) to the torsional stiffness.
0.4
Gradient [/m
Rear Axle
Front Axle
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
-0.1
-0.2
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
The above graph shows the gradient of the torsion line. The disharmonies of the
torsion line can be seen in a higher resolution.
Chapter 10 - Page 7
The torsional rigidity for DH #2 in the configuration described in section 10.3.1.1 is:
With glass
Without glass
20,800 Nm/deg
15,830 Nm/deg
DH #2 Displacement Torsion
20
Rear Axle
Front Axle
4000 Nm
3000 Nm
2000 Nm
1000 Nm
15
10
-5
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
Chapter 10 - Page 8
5000
DH #2 Gradient Torsion
0.4
Rear Axle
Front Axle
0.3
Gradient [/m]
0.2
0.1
0
-0.1
-0.2
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
The above graph shows the gradient of the torsion line. The disharmonies of the
torsion line can be seen in a higher resolution.
Chapter 10 - Page 9
Torsion Rigidity
Torsion Rigidity [%]
110
100
100.0
98.3
98.3
90
92.0
92.0
80
1
Test Configuration
Figure 10.3.2.1-6 Torsion Rigidity Five Test Configurations
As the numbers show, only the bolted brace cowl to shock tower assembly has a
significant impact on the torsional rigidity of 6.3%.
Chapter 10 - Page 10
The bending rigidity of the test unit in the configuration described in Section
10.3.1.1 is:
With glass
Without glass
20,460 N/mm
17,150 N/mm
Chapter 10 - Page 11
Front Axle
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
-0.1
-0.2
4000 N
3000 N
2000 N
1000 N
-0.3
-0.4
-0.5
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
The graph is running harmonic. There is only a local increase in bending rigidity
between x = 3500 and x = 4200. This indicates a stiff joint between rocker and rear
rails. Furthermore, Porsche relates this to the design of the side roof rail.
50
Front Axle
40
Rear Axle
30
20
10
0
-10
-20
-30
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
Figure 10.3.2.2-3 Deviation from the Average Bending Line with Glass
The above graph shows the deviation from the average value of the bending line.
The disharmonies can be seen in a better resolution.
Chapter 10 - Page 12
The bending rigidity for DH #2 in the configuration described in Section 10.3.1.1 is:
With glass
Without glass
18,100 N/mm
15,950 N/mm
DH #2 Displacement Bending
0.5
Rear Axle
Front Axle
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
-0.1
-0.2
4000 N
3000 N
2000 N
1000 N
-0.3
-0.4
-0.5
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
The bending lines show the same characteristics as for the test unit, but the
absolute value decreased by 11%. The local increase between x=3500 and x=4200
is not so evident as it was on the test unit. This could be created by local
modifications of the side roof rail and the rear rails for improved manufacturing.
Furthermore, the material gage of the panel roof changed from 0.77mm to 0.70mm
due to material availability problems for the test unit; this was also a factor for the
decrease of the absolute value.
Additionally Porsche has experienced that static rigidities of body structures differ
by plus/minus five percent (5%) even under series production conditions.
Chapter 10 - Page 13
40
Front Axle
Rear Axle
30
20
10
0
-10
-20
-30
-40
-50
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
Figure 10.3.2.2-5 Deviation from the Average Bending Line with Glass
The above graph shows the deviation from the average value of the bending line.
The disharmonies can be seen in a better resolution.
Chapter 10 - Page 14
5000
Bending Rigidity
110
100
100.0
100.0
99.0
98.8
100.0
90
80
5
Test Configuration
Figure 10.3.2.2-6 Bending Rigidity Five Test Configurations
As the numbers show, none of these parts display a significant impact on bending
rigidity.
The increase from test configuration four (4) to test configuration five (5) is caused
by local effects of the tunnel bridge to the displacement of the rocker. This behavior
was also noticed in other body structures.
Chapter 10 - Page 15
In the case of the ULSAB, the body structure is excited by means of four
electrodynamic shakers that are coupled to the corner points of the structure.
Chapter 10 - Page 16
The simultaneous excitation with four shakers is necessary to provide good energy
distribution into the structure and to minimize the influence of possible nonlinearities
to the quality on the results. In addition, the torsion and bending modes of the body
can be excited definitely. Torsion and bending are the most important global modes
of a body structure.
Each of the four shakers is driven by a computer-generated, statistical independent
band limited (0 to 100 Hz) Gaussian random noise spectrum. The response of the
structure is determined by measuring vibration transfer functions between the
acceleration at each measurement point in three orthogonal directions and each
driving force.
Accelerometer
HP 9000/700
LMS CADA-X
DAC Interface
ADC Interface
Memory
Electrodynamic
Shakers
Power Amplifier
Charge
Amplifier
Aliasing Filter
and Amplifier
The global parameters of the structure, frequency and damping are determined
thereafter by a Least Squares Complex Exponential (LSCE) fitting.
Chapter 10 - Page 17
10.4.2. Results
Chapter 10 - Page 18
The global modes of the test unit in the described test configuration can be seen in
the following chart:
70
60
60.6
60.8
62.4
64.3
60.6
50
49.1
40
Torsion
Bending
without glass
The dynamic rigidity of the ULSAB structure is remarkably good, as it was already
indicated by the static test results. Windshield and backlight have a significant
impact on the first torsion mode. The difference is in the same range, as known
from other sedan body structures.
The effect on first bending and first front-end lateral mode is relatively small. For
the test configuration with glass, the first torsion mode and the first front-end lateral
mode are coupled at 60.6 Hz.
Chapter 10 - Page 19
1.8
Bending 63.5 Hz
Corner Points
Front Left
1.6
Front Right
1.4
Rear Left
1.2
Rear Right
1
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
50
52
54
56
58
60
62
64
66
68
Frequency [Hz]
The graph plot above shows the frequency response functions, measured at the
four driving points. Second bending mode at 63.5 Hz occurs mainly in the rear;
whereas the first bending mode occurs in the front and rear of the structure.
Chapter 10 - Page 20
70
The global modes for DH #2 in the described test configuration can be seen in the
following chart:
D H # 2 M o da l A na lys is
70
66.5
63.9
60
64.9
60.1
57.2
50
47
40
Torsion
Bending
w ithout glass
The dynamic rigidity of DH #2 is in the same range as the values of the test unit.
The front-end lateral mode changed remarkably. This is created by the change of
the material gauge of the rail fender support inner from 0.9mm to 1.2mm.
The torsion mode and bending mode without glass decreased slightly, but with
glass, the loss of dynamic rigidity is compensated.
Chapter 10 - Page 21
4
Measurement Points:
3.8
3
2.8
Front Left
2.6
Front Right
2.4
Rear Left
2.2
Rear Right
2
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
Project:
1
0.8
Test:
0.6
Date:
0.4
Vehicle:
0.2
0
50
52
54
56
58
60
62
64
Frequency
66
ulsabdh2
ULSAB_DH2_mS
18-12-97
ULSAB DH2
Body Structure
with Screens
70
68
Hz
The graph plot above shows the frequency response function, measured at the four
driving points. The amplitude of the first bending increased in relation to the test
unit. This is in correlation with the decrease of the static bending rigidity.
Additional modal analysis was conducted on the ULSAB structure, to investigate the
influence of several bolted and/or bonded parts.
Test configurations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Chapter 10 - Page 22
Modal Analysis
70
62.4
60.6
60
62.4
61.0
62.4
61.0
62.3
62.3
60.8
60.3
60.6
53.4
50
47.0
47.3
47.2
40
1
Test Configuration
Front End Lateral
Torsion
Bending
The influence of the bolted brace cowl to shock tower assembly on the front-end
lateral mode of 13.6 Hz is evident.
Test configuration 5 shows an improvement in the front-end lateral mode, but this is
mainly caused by the influence of the mass of assembly radiator support.
The other modifications have no evident impact on dynamic rigidity.
Chapter 10 - Page 23
The measured mass in full test configuration included the mass of the bolted brace
cowl to shock tower assembly and tunnel bridge, which were installed for testing
only (see 10.3.1.1 Test Configurations). The mass of Windshield and backlight
were not included. The mass in this test configuration was the following:
Test Unit
DH #2
197.3 kg
198.5 kg
Chapter 10 - Page 24
10.6. Summary
All test results proved excellent performance and coordination between test results
and CAE results for structural performance values.
This is caused by the fact that the approach from former times, to define the
structural body parts by these requirements, is superseded. Nowadays, these body
parts are mainly specified by safety requirements.
CAE
Final
Test
Benchmark
DH #2
Unit
Version
Unit
Average
Targets
Static Rigidity
Torsion
(Nm/deg)
20,800
21,620
20,350
19,020
11,531
13,000
Bending
(N/mm)
18,100
20,460
20,540
20,410
11,902
12,200
Modal Analysis
Torsion
(Hz)
60.1
60.6
61.4
61.1
38*
40
Bending
(Hz)
63.9
62.4
61.8
64.1
38*
40
64.9
60.6
60.3
58.5
38*
40
The results gained by CAE calculations are in good, if not excellent, correlation with
the test results.
Chapter 10 - Page 25
11.1. Introduction
The objective of this program was to establish a credible cost estimation of the
ULSAB body structure by using automotive practices of manufacturing engineering,
process engineering and cost estimating.
To undertake this program, Porsche Engineering Services, Inc. (PES) organized an
interactive process between product designers, stamping process engineers,
assembly line designers and cost analysts. The team was comprised of the
following organizations:
Porsche Engineering Services .... Program Management
Knight Engineering .... Stamping Process Engineering
Schaefer GmbH .... Hydroform Process Engineering
Classic Design .... Assembly Process Design
Porsche AG .... Process Validation
Camanoe Assoc. / IBIS Assoc .... Cost Analysis
Because end users would want to analyze what if scenarios and compare existing
or potential body structures to ULSAB, the entire program used a technical cost
model program developed by Camanoe Associates (a group of MIT researchers)
and IBIS Associates.
The technical cost model is programmed to allow the user to change any of the
general inputs to suit their specific environment or to change specific inputs for
alternative processes.
In addition, because the costs shown on the ULSAB cost model reflect only factory
costs and are relative to the level of product development as of today, a user may
wish to enter additional cost categories for both ULSAB and a comparative body
structure. The cost model has been arranged to accommodate this.
Chapter 11 - Page 1
Some of the areas not included in the ULSAB Cost Analysis are:
Chapter 11 - Page 2
Part Definitions
(mass, area, etc........)
Assembly Requirements
(number and type of welds)
Consensus among:
- Camanoe / IBIS
- Knight Engineering
- Porsche Engineering
- Porsche AG
Cost Model
This data was then compared to the mass industry data bank at the Massachusetts
Institute of Technology (MIT) to ensure reasonableness before being used for cost
estimating.
For the assembly line design and processing, PES provided Classic Design with a
detailed bill of materials (BOM) and parts sequencing. From this, each area and
station was developed in a macro view, which established the equipment, tooling,
building and manpower required to fulfill the production requirements. Following
validation by Porsche, Germany this data was then forwarded to Camanoe for final
cost estimation.
Chapter 11 - Page 3
Chapter 11 - Page 4
Cost is assigned to each unit operation from a process flow diagram. For each of
these unit operations, total cost is broken down into separately calculated individual
elements.
Developed to breakdown and track contributions from variable and fixed costs, the
models identify the major cost contributors to manufacturing. After the direct
manufacturing costs are established based on an initial set of input parameters,
sensitivity analysis can be performed to indicate the cost impact of changes to key
parameters. Technical cost models provide an understanding not only of current
costs, but also of how these costs might differ in the face of future technological or
economic developments. Typical parameters investigated via sensitivity analyses
include: annual production volume, throughput (cycle time or production rate), raw
material prices and tooling costs.
Models can be implemented in either a descriptive or predictive manner. In either
case, direct inputs are specified for the product material, geometry and
manufacturing scenario. With descriptive models, the user directly inputs the
intermediate parameters such as production rate, equipment cost and tooling cost.
In the predictive approach, the model as a function of the product material and
geometry calculates the intermediate parameters. These predictive functions are
derived from analyzing a continually expanding range of case studies, and are
updated routinely. It is this predictive nature of technical cost models that separates
them from other cost estimating tools.
Chapter 11 - Page 5
Input
Production Volume
240
Production Location
Mid-West USA
Interest Rate
12%
Equipment Life
20 years
Production Life
5 years
Building Life
25 years
Chapter 11 - Page 6
4500
tons
3600
tons
10
11
12
13
14
15
B3
400 t
400 t
B4
B5
1000 t
B2
600 t
B1
400 t
The accompanying press shop layout shows the distribution of these 15 press lines
and five blanking lines among the various equipment types shown in the previous
slide. The layout also shows the number of presses required on each line. For
example, there is only one line using Press Group A and it contains six presses;
there is one line using Press Group B containing four presses; three lines using
Press Group C containing four presses each; and four lines using Press Group D
containing three presses each. In addition, one of each large transfer press types
and four smaller transfer presses suitable for the progressive die parts were also
used. Finally, one large, one medium and three small blanking lines were required.
Chapter 11 - Page 7
Press
Capacity
Size
Press Group A:
4572 mm x 3048 mm
Press Group B:
3048 mm x 2032 mm
Press Group C:
2743 mm x 1524 mm
Press Group D:
2438 mm x 1220 mm
Press Group E:
350 ton SA
2134 mm x 1220 mm
(Progressive Dies)
Transfer Presses:
Blanking Lines:
400 ton
2438 mm x 1220 mm
600 ton
2743 mm x 1524 mm
1000 ton
3048 mm x 2032 mm
DA = Double Action
SA = Single Action
Chapter 11 - Page 8
Information
Machine Rents
Calculations
Part Inputs
General Inputs
Investments
Cost Breakdown
Cost Summary
Overall Costs
The ULSAB technical cost model consists of the following nine major sections or
sheets, in order of appearance: Overall Costs, Cost Summary, Cost Breakdown,
Investments, General Inputs, Part Inputs, Calculations, Machine Rents and
Information.
Chapter 11 - Page 9
The Overall Costs sheet, appearing first, reports the total cost for body structure
fabrication. This sheet provides the user with a brief synopsis of the model outputs,
which include cost contributors for stamping and assembly of a body structure. As
mentioned in the introduction, the user will be able to input additional costs as
required. The second sheet, Cost Summary, provides more detail by listing cost
contributors for each part ID number or assembly area. The next sheet, Cost
Breakdown, gives further detail on the contributors to part cost. Cost contributors
for each part ID are broken down by process step, and the information in this sheet
is organized slightly differently than in the Cost Summary sheet. No information on
assembly is contained on the Cost Breakdown sheet, only costs related to part
production. The 2 input sheets (General Inputs and Parts Inputs) contain all of the
pertinent input parameters for cost calculation. The Calculations sheet lists
intermediate cost output calculations that may be of interest.
The model includes a sheet that can be used to test the effect of various sets of
input parameters on the machine rents. Finally, the Information sheet gives
information concerning the size and the gages of the blank sizes to be used for
ULSAB.
Assembly:
General Output Costs
Chapter 11 - Page 10
Most of the eight sheets are organized in a similar manner, as shown schematically
in the figure above. This organization is consistent for cost sheets and calculation
sheets. By paging down each sheet, three sections become apparent: Stamped
Parts, Tubular and Purchased Parts and Assembly.
By paging across the sheet within each of these sections, the costs for specific
parts or assembly processes (listed by ID) are identified, and sorted into two
categories: General Output Costs and Cost Breakdown by Element.
Within the General Output Costs regions, the total cost for fabricating parts is listed
for each part, identified by part ID and name. Hence part cost information for each
stamped, tubular and purchased part is readily available. The total cost for
fabrication is summed at the bottom of each column and section.
Paging across to the Cost Breakdown by Element region, the total cost for each part
is broken down into nine cost categories, including material, energy, labor,
equipment, tooling, overhead labor, building, maintenance and working capital
costs. Addition of all cost elements in a given row sums to the total part cost. Each
of the nine cost elements is also totaled at the bottom of each column for all parts to
provide a total cost breakout by element in the Stamping, Tubular and Purchased
Parts and Assembly sections.
Chapter 11 - Page 11
The body structure cost can be broken down into $666, from parts fabrication and
$281 from assembly. Of the 158 parts in the ULSAB design, the 94 major stamped
parts make up the majority of the mass (184 kg) and represent the largest cost
element at $584. Tubular parts, such as the two hydroformed side roof rails and the
member pass through beams, as well as a large number of small brackets and
hinges (normally out-sourced by the auto maker), make up only a small portion of
both the overall mass and cost.
Cost
Stamped Parts
Tubular & Purchased Parts
Assembly
Total Body Structure
$584
$82
$281
$947
Number
Mass of
of Parts Parts (kg)
94
64
--158
184.3
18.9
--203.2
The breakdown of the variable costs (and the remaining fixed cost total), both for
parts fabrication and assembly, shows the importance of the material and fixed
costs. Material (steel) is the single largest cost driver, accounting for 37% of the
total body structure cost. Total fixed costs (for parts fabrication and assembly
operations), which primarily derive from the investments in plant equipment and
overhead, also lead to 44% of the body structure cost. The labor and energy
contributions are relatively small at a combined total of only 10% for the entire
assembled body structure.
Chapter 11 - Page 12
ULSAB
% of Total
Stamping
Hydroforming
Purchased
Assembly
$584
$41
$41
$281
62%
4%
4%
30%
$947
100%
158
203.2 kg
ULSAB
% of Total
$353
36
6
189
$584
37%
4%
1%
20%
62%
Assembly
$41
$41
$0
45
10
226
$281
4%
4%
0%
5%
1%
24%
30%
$947
100%
Material
Labor
Energy
Fixed Costs
Stamping Parts Fabrication
Hydroforming
Purchased
Material
Labor
Energy
Fixed Costs
Chapter 11 - Page 13
Investments
ULSAB
(Millions)
% of Total
Blanking Tooling
$4.4
1.4%
$10.1
3.2%
$1.2
0.4%
$37.2
11.9%
Welding Building
$5.9
1.9%
Stamping Tooling
$37.1
11.8%
Stamping Lines
$102.9
32.8%
Stamping Building
$6.1
1.9%
Hydroform Tooling
$1.3
0.4%
$16.3
5.2%
$0.5
0.2%
Assembly Tooling
$19.0
6.0%
Assembly Equipment
$40.4
12.9%
Assembly Building
$31.3
10.0%
$313.7
100%
Blanking Lines
Blanking Building
Welding Line
Hydroform Lines
Hydroform Building
Total Investments
Investments for each process step show that the assembly line and related tooling
and building expenses account for less than one-third of the total. The press shop
is the major source of investment. Press lines account for over 30% of the
investment total. Welding lines for producing tailored blanks are also significant,
despite the fact that there are only 16 tailor welded blank parts used in the body
structure
Chapter 11 - Page 14
The primary driver for the major stamped parts is material. Due to the stage of
program development, a very cautious approach was taken in determining blank
sizes; therefore the level of engineered scrap results in a relatively high material
cost.
Cost per
Vehicle
$353
$36
$6
$395
Equipment Cost
Tooling Cost
Overhead Labor Cost
Building Cost
Maintenance Cost
Working Capital Cost
Total Fixed Costs
TOTAL COST OF STAMPED PARTS
$88
$51
$27
$7
$15
$1
$189
$584
As is typically the case, the other main cost components for the stamped parts are
the equipment (press lines) and the tooling.
Chapter 11 - Page 15
Cost per
Vehicle
$0
$45
$10
Chapter 11 - Page 16
$55
$50
$23
$125
$18
$9
$1
$226
$281
Part #
Material
Cost
Blanking
Cost
Welding
Cost
Stamping
Cost
Total Cost
008/009
$11.96
$0.75
$2.75
$3.97
$19.43
010/011
$18.25
$0.99
$3.02
$4.16
$26.42
042/043
$25.39
$1.07
$2.20
$4.63
$33.29
046/047
$19.08
$1.10
$3.30
$4.94
$28.42
048/049
$9.27
$0.74
$1.95
$4.75
$16.71
060
$39.44
$1.90
$9.53
$11.06
$61.93
061
$39.43
$1.90
$9.53
$11.06
$61.92
070/071
$9.13
$0.49
$4.40
$3.91
$17.93
096/097
$6.78
$0.49
$1.64
$3.61
$12.52
TOTAL
$178.73
64%
$9.43
3%
$38.32
14%
$52.09
19%
$278.57
100%
Chapter 11 - Page 17
The costs of tailor welded parts are still primarily driven by the material costs, which
makes up 63% of the total. This is also true for the body sides (parts 060 & 061)
where the blanking process was especially productionized to decrease the scrap
associated with the large cutouts for the door openings. Processing costs divide
fairly evenly between the welding and stamping operations, with the blanking step
contributing only a small percentage.
$375
Worst of All Inputs
$348
$350
$325
Min: 50 mm/s
Base: 100 mm/s
Max: 150 mm/s
Max: 40%
Base: 30%
Min: 15%
$313
$300
$286
$288
Baseline
$279
$275
$268
$272
$274
$260
$250
Equipment
Total
A key question regarding the use of a relatively new technology (i.e. tailor welding of
blanks) is the certainty of the process variables and the effect of changes in these
parameters on the part cost. Three major input parameters were considered for this
sensitivity: the weld speed, the line unplanned downtime and the line cost. The
baseline values used in the cost analysis were 100 mm/sec, 30% (four hrs/day
downtime) and $3.8 million respectively. These factors were allowed to vary within
a range of reasonable values. The graph shows that the cost of the parts is most
Chapter 11 - Page 18
sensitive to assumptions regarding the weld speed. A weld speed reduction to only
50 mm/sec would raise the cost by approximately $35. The downtime and line
equipment costs have much smaller effects that might result in increases (or
savings) of less than $10 each. Even under the worst case scenario of low weld
speeds and high downtimes and equipment costs, the total part cost would only rise
by about $50, or about 18%.
Cost per
Rail
$11.08
1.53
0.11
$12.72
$4.87
0.82
1.23
0.15
0.58
0.05
$7.70
$20.42
Hydroforming is the other new parts fabrication technology used in the ULSAB
design. While there are only two hydroformed parts, the left and right side roof
rails, these components enable design changes in numerous other parts in the body
structure. Because this process produces only two parts the cost significance is
relatively low. Each side roof rail is estimated to cost $20, of which the majority of
the non-material related costs result from the hydroforming equipment.
Chapter 11 - Page 19
The draw operation of the panel roof is planned in hydro-mech technology using a
10,000 ton hydraulic press. The investment cost of this press is $84 million,
excluding installation and auxiliary equipment, the resulting operation cost including
material is $18.41. The subsequent operations (trimming and flanging) are done in
conventional presses. As the draw operation needs a far longer cycle time than the
other operations (100 per hour vs. 400 per hour), the production sequencing has
been separated.
Laser welding has been incorporated into four areas of the assembly system. The
total number of laser welders used is 13 at an average cost of $1.2 M each.
High strength steels range in cost from $0.85 kg to $1.16 kg compared to mild steel,
which costs $0.77.
Laminate materials used on the spare tire tub and dash insert is at $3.60 kg. This
results in relatively high prices for these parts.
Chapter 11 - Page 20
+ 20%
$44 p/hour
-20%
$1000
$1013
+ 10%
$352
-10%
$994
$982
+ 20%
0.10 $/kWh
-20%
$975
15 years
20 years
25 years
$955
$950
$950
+ 20%
$1500 p/m2
-20%
$952
$947
$943
$944
$942
$925
$900
$909
$900
$912
$875
Labor
Wage
Unit
Energy
Cost
Equipment
Life
Building
Unit
Cost
Production
Life
Material
Costs
Stamping
Parts
Additionally, Tailored Welded Blanks, Hydroforming and Laser Welding are relatively
new processes. As the utilization of these technologies increases so should
efficiency and this would result in cost reductions.
Chapter 11 - Page 21
As the above described comparative study does not utilize the specific design or
detailed manufacturing cost estimates contained within ULSAB, detail or technical
comparisons with ULSAB cannot be made.
Chapter 11 - Page 22
For the purpose of direct comparisons, a specific detailed cost model of ULSAB in
spreadsheet format is available and will be provided by the ULSAB Consortium to
automotive manufacturers. This will allow the automotive OEMs to directly compare
in detail, their current or future planned models with ULSAB.
Chapter 11 - Page 23
11.5.2. Assumptions
(A)
(B)*
184
10
9
203
49%
230
0
20
250
55%
248
0
10
258
50%
59
47
79
36
40
28
158
11
39
44
2
62
200
6
79
50
0
65
171
12
54
40
0
65
61
14
27
18
2
109
20
59
30
0
65
14
33
18
0
Transfer
Tandem
4.1
3.6
3.8
3.2
4.1
3.6
2.5
2.5
2.3
64
178
2,206**
18,286
136
13
114
20,865
80
210
3,250
0
200
0
130
30,000
74
202
3,060
0
154
0
128
28,156
Parts Fabrication
Assembly
Direct Labor (Manpower)
Indirect Labor (Manpower)
Number of Spot Welds
Length (mm) of Laser Welds
Number of Robots
Number of Laser Welders
Number of Assembly Stations
Assembly Building Area (m)
Chapter 11 - Page 24
Year 2000
ULSAB
(A)
(B)*
Stamping
$584
$609
$592
Hydroforming
41
Purchased
41
41
41
Assembly
281
329
308
Total Cost
$947
$979
$941
203
250
258
Chapter 11 - Page 25
11.6. Conclusion
The ULSAB design is aimed at achieving two significant goals:
Chapter 11 - Page 26
Phase 2
Results
Performance
Mass
203
271
- 68
- 25%
20800
11531
+ 9269
+ 80%
(N/mm)
18100
11902
+6198
+ 52%
(Hz)
60
38
+ 22
+ 58%
(kg)
Benchmark
Difference
Average
Difference
(%)
Relative to the benchmark average vehicle mass of 271 kg, the mass reduction
achieved is 68 kg (25%).
The static torsional rigidity exceeds the target. The efficiency (rigidity / mass) has
increased, in relation to Phase 1, to 102.5 [(Nm/deg)/kg] (Fig. 12-2). The Phase 2
structural performance results are shown in the graphs as a tolerance field rather
than a fixed point. To indicate that the mass and the performances can vary from
one demonstration hardware structures to another, as it would also do in real mass
production. The static bending rigidity as well as the first body structure mode have
also been increased in comparison to the Phase 1 results (Fig. 12-3 and 12-4).
These high levels of static and dynamic rigidity provide an excellent basis for a
complete vehicle development in respect to its NVH behavior.
Chapter 12 - Page 1
24
Cb (x1000) [Nm/deg]
Ct/m
60
18
14
80
ULSAB
Phase I
20
16
90
70
22
20.8
100
ULSAB
Phase II
50
Future
Performance
Reference
ULSAB
Target
40
12
30
Current
Average
10
8
20
6
4
180
200
203
220
240
260
280
300
320
340
m [kg]
100
90
80
Cb/m
70
24
22
ULSAB
Phase II
60
20
Cb (x1000) [N/mm]
18.1 18
50
16
14
Future
Performance
Reference
ULSAB
Phase I
ULSAB
Target
40
12
30
Current
Average
10
8
20
6
4
180
200
220
203
240
260
280
300
320
340
m [kg]
Chapter 12 - Page 2
70
65
ULSAB
Phase II
60.1 60
ULSAB
Phase I
55
Future
Performance
Reference
f [Hz]
50
45
ULSAB
Target
40
35
Current
Average
30
25
20
180
200
203
220
240
260
280
300
320
340
m [kg]
The results of the crash analysis confirmed the integrity and safety of the ULSAB
structure. The AMS Offset Crash is considered one of the most severe crash tests
of today. In recently performed comparison crash tests of AMS, with the same
vehicle towards a deformable barrier with 40% offset at 64 km/h versus the AMS
Offset Crash barrier with 50% offset at 55 km/n, the results were nearly equal. This
confirms that the decision to analyze the ULSAB structure for its offset crash
behavior using the AMS test configuration, determined at the beginning of Phase 2
in 1995, was the right choice.
The NCAP 100% Frontal Crash was run at 35 mph, 5 mph above the federal
requirement of FMVSS 208, meaning 36% more energy had to be absorbed.
In both the 50% Offset and 100% Front Crash low footwell intrusion and structural
integrity proved the safety of the structure.
Chapter 12 - Page 3
The rear impact crash analysis, also run at 5 mph above the required speed of
30mph and showed fuel system integrity, passenger compartment integrity, residual
volume and door opening after the analysis.
The side impact crash analysis showed good results for criteria, such as passenger
compartment intrusion, B-Pillar displacements and overall shape of deformation.
The roof crash analysis proves that the roof meets the federal standard
requirements and is stable and predictable.
The crash analysis was run with a vehicle crash mass of 1612 kg, meaning
secondary weight savings of other components such as engine; suspension, etc.
were not considered, to achieve a conservative approach.
Apart from the design of the structure and its optimized smooth load flow from front
and rear rails into the rocker and the side roof rail concept; the use of high strength
steels in 90% relative to the ULSAB structure mass was the key to achieve this
crash performances at low mass.
This need to use high strength steel to achieve this crash performance with the
given target for mass was a challenge for the part design and our suppliers.
Together with steel suppliers, part manufacturers, designers and engineers, the
right materials were selected and the design was modified until it was feasible.
Significant mass reduction was also achieved with the use of tailor welded blanks in
combination with high strength steel. The elimination of reinforcements and joints
between parts reduced mass and enhanced crash and structural performance.
Furthermore, the total number of parts and assembly steps was reduced. With the
use of the tubular hydroforming manufacturing process for the side roof rail and
sheet metal hydroforming for the roof panel, parts could be manufactured,
contributing to performance and weight reduction. The hydroformed side roof rail
made from a tube with a relatively large diameter of 96mm and a wall thickness of
1mm from high strength steel was made feasible in Phase 2.
Chapter 12 - Page 4
The assembly sequence of the ULSAB structure with the body side inner
subassembly, first assembled to the underbody structure and the body side outer in
the following step, gives better weld access, especially in the rear of the structure.
With this assembly sequence, weld access holes can be avoided and structural
performance can be maintained.
Laser welding in assembly is successfully applied to weld the body side outer panel
and the roof to the side roof rail. In addition, it was used to join the fender support
rails and the front rails to enhance the performance.
In terms of the cost analysis, following extensive work in detail processing of
components and assemblies, it was established that ULSAB would cost $947 to
manufacture. The competitiveness of this cost is due to the design concept, which
consolidated parts and eliminated many reinforcements, therefore saving stamping
and welding operations.
These savings were partially offset by the cost of high strength steel and the new
technologies such as laser welding and hydroforming, but the final conclusion of the
analysis is that ULSAB can be produced without cost penalty.
Chapter 12 - Page 5