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Design Philosophy

Every automotive powertrain product NETFORM develops is different. There are no standard parts, no off-the-shelf solutions. Each part or assembly is designed to specifically solve a customer’s problem.

Netform Approach

.VS.

Conventional Approach

Design Methodology for Cost-Effective Powertrain Components.

Parts are rarely, if ever, designed for cold forming. Consequently, there are steps that are critical to achieve cost-effective cold formed components and assemblies.

Early Design Reviews

Early customer/Netform design reviews (prior to prototype print generation) should be carried out to identify key surfaces and features. These reviews provide the opportunity to think outside of the box and re-design/combine parts where possible.

Complete System Reviews

By reviewing the entire cross section, not just the individual product print, components can be designed for consolidation.

Leverage Net-Formed Surfaces

Involving manufacturing early in the design process provides the opportunity to see where parts can be used as-formed. This will lead to reduced costs in several areas.

Leverage Formed Cross Sections

The ability of cold forming to vary cross sections can lead to the elimination of welds. Focus on them to see if they are really necessary.

Leverage Work Hardening

Use the work hardening that comes with cold forming to either eliminate or simplify/lower the cost of heat treatments.

Avoid Carrying Over Designs

It is important to avoid carrying over part design criteria in order to achieve cost-effective product designs.

Netform Design Approach

Every automotive powertrain product NETFORM develops is different. There are no standard parts, no off-the-shelf solutions. Each part or assembly is designed to specifically solve a customer’s problem.

The customer print is just the start point. The print triggers engineering discussions where part consolidation opportunities are investigated and product design requirements understood.

NETFORM then puts together design proposals that push the boundaries of the original part. The end result? Powertrain components that provide weight reduction, part consolidation, strength increase, improved packaging, etc.

The key to success, to major cost savings? Involve NETFORM early, before designs are frozen. Share requirements, brainstorm together, and create products that are truly unique.

To summarize – involve Netform early, share the overall design concept and involve manufacturing.

Doing this will give the best results with regard to designing cost-effective cold formed components and assemblies. When the NETFORM design philosophy is applied the following outcomes are possible:

Weight Reduction

Fatigue Life Improvements

Cost Reduction

Improved Packaging

Component Consolidation

Environmental

Reduced Machining

Weld Elimination

Heat treat Elimination

Tooling Cost Reduction

Thermal Dissipation

Porosity Avoidance

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