One continues to associate composites with mil/aerospace, where cost is not much of a concern (it's borne by taxpayers). Similarly, the cost is worth paying to get the weight reduction when you're talking advanced race cars. So I guess the question is, how long will it take manufacturing to come down the cost curve, so that this stuff will be cost effective for production automobiles. Also, maybe I'm wrong here, but my understanding is that producing composite panels is much more time- and labor-intensive than is stamping out sheet metal panels.
Wind energy companies are another sector where composites are gaining ground. If you consider the evolution of product capabilities in key design tools like CAD and CAE as any kind of indicator, it would seem composites are being embraced in industries other than aerospace/military. Most of the CAD/CAE tools are incorporating specific technologies to address composite design and they actively target sectors like automotive.
There are roughly 6.5 million accidents in the US per year. One major detriment to composite usage in unibody autos is the repair. To make the molding economical the panels are molded in large sections to replace several formed and welded areas. Another is recognition of damaged areas. Composites hide damage very well sometimes. This WILL help the auto industry one step closer to becoming another throw away product. Composites in monocoque structures make sense in race cars and exotics where the relationship of unit cost to repair cost is reasonable. The auto industry should focus on composite alternatives with secondary panels (outside body) and bolt ons i.e. bracing, seat frames, engine/trans mounts...etc.
I've heard that graphene and/or carbon nanotube composites are even stronger than normal carbon composites ( much stronger ). Is that true? What's happening with the developments along those lines? Can we expect a 787 DreamLiner with paper thin fuselage :-) ?
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
7 
