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Modularity - A Building Block of AEV Innovation
Whether you're taking an evolutionary or revolutionary approach in your alternative energy vehicle (AEV) designs, there's an opportunity to generate excitement over new-to-the-market features and to take some of the "wow" from the concept stage to the street.
Modularity is more than a buzzword in the AEV community. Advanced composites and plastics are being considered for modules of all types because they offer greater design freedom, part consolidation, integration and weight reduction compared to traditional materials such as steel or aluminum.
For example, Bayer MaterialScience's portfolio includes Baydur® and Baypreg® F composite systems, suitable for structural components in roof and underbody modules. Bayer has developed Makrolon® polycarbonate grades specifically for automotive roof, fixed vertical and lift gate glazing applications. Through modularity and innovative design, these Bayer materials can be combined to produce a cost-effective, light weight, modular solution for roofs.
A module based mainly on molded components also allows manufacturing freedom. Imagine using a single mold, with a series of inserts, to create multiple variations of a design theme. Also consider that PUR-based RIM and composite systems can be used to encapsulate anything from wiring to glass to structural steel, reducing assembly stages and optimizing the weight and performance of the vehicle. Engineers can also design "standardized" modules usable across car platforms. The net result is a reduction in everything from engineering to manpower, parts to tools, floor space to capital investment, while increasing productivity and lowering costs.
On top of that, AEV innovators can work with the in-house engineers of our global Applications Engineering Group for expert assistance with the design and analysis of plastic and composite parts and molds to help ensure that you optimize the design. This type of support can enhance the product development process by ensuring real improvements over traditional design and materials and providing benefits such as reduced time to market, increased product variety and enhanced quality.
For more information contact David Loren at 248-475-7729 or david.loren@bayerbms.com.
Bayer MaterialScience LLC \ 100 Bayer Road \ Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9741 USA
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