Title: Parametric modelling approach for development of an automotive bucket seat frame

Authors: Nikhil Bhat, Hong-Tae Kang

Addresses: The University of Michigan-Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, 48128, MI, USA. ' The University of Michigan-Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, 48128, MI, USA

Abstract: This paper presents a design process of an automotive bucket seat frame using a parametric modelling approach. The design process involves, first, optimising a generic seat frame using OptiStruct optimisation software. Then, a parametric model of the seat frame was developed based on the optimisation analysis results using CATIA V5. The design parameters were changed in the parametric model and numerous static tests were also performed using CATIA V5. Design of Experiment (DOE) study was then conducted using MINITAB to optimise the design parameters. Finally, the optimised seat frame was evaluated based on the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) using in LS-DYNA.

Keywords: parametric modelling; automotive seat frames; bucket seats; optimisation; design process; DOE; design of experiments; automobile industry; vehicle design; vehicle safety standards.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMPT.2009.024657

International Journal of Materials and Product Technology, 2009 Vol.34 No.3, pp.251 - 263

Published online: 14 Apr 2009 *

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