Title: Optimal heat-reversible snap joints for frame-panel assembly in aluminium space frame automotive bodies

Authors: Mohammed Shalaby, Kazuhiro Saitou

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA

Abstract: This paper presents a method for designing heat-reversible snap joints, locator-snap systems that detach non-destructively by heating a certain location of parts. It is expected to dramatically improve the recyclability of aluminium space frame (ASF) bodies by enabling clean separation of frames and body panels. Extending our previous work on the sequential design of the locators and heating area (Shalaby and Saitou, 2005), the method simultaneously optimises locators, heating area and snaps for ensuring joint detachment with minimum heat and avoiding resonance due to vehicle vibration. A multi-objective genetic algorithm is utilised to search for Pareto optimal design alternatives.

Keywords: design for disassembly; DFA; snap-fit joints; aluminium space frames; ASF; design for sustainability; DFS; sustainable manufacturing; heat-reversible snap joints; automotive bodies; car bodies; automobile industry; recycling; body panels; genetic algorithms; GAs; Pareto optimal design; sustainable manufacturing; sustainability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSM.2009.023976

International Journal of Sustainable Manufacturing, 2009 Vol.1 No.3, pp.302 - 317

Published online: 22 Mar 2009 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article