LIGHTWEIGHT DOOR
A new concept for a lightweight door
Project leader: Paola Campestrini
The average car door weighs about 40 kg. In this project, Flanders' DRIVE is developing a concept for a lightweight door, together with a number of partners. Lightweight systems are important because they help to reduce fuel consumption.
In this project, new material combinations and integration options are being researched, and these will be demonstrated in a new door concept. After a demonstrator has been built, it will be tested to see if the door meets the systems and functional requirements of the customer.
Goals
The project's objective is the development of a lightweight door with high functional integration. In real terms, the aim is a weight saving of 20% and the integration of more functions without increasing the cost price. New knowledge is being acquired regarding materials, joining technologies, and design and production methods for the integration of lightweight materials. This knowledge will also be useful for other vehicle parts at a later stage.
Methodology
Through intensive information gathering and by calling on our partners' specific multi-disciplinary knowledge, a lightweight door, which meets the demands of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), can be developed.
Phases
- Reverse engineering: understanding the construction and requirements
- Identification of door components and their functions
- Research into lightweight materials for components
- Integration of the developed systems into a lightweight door concept
- Validation of the door concept
Project Duration
Core competencies
Partners
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