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Research in this
area will focus on fundamental investigations on formability of various new
materials, as well as the application of those materials in automotive
manufacturing. Analytic, computational and experimental studies will be
undertaken to advance the state of knowledge and forming capability
(stamping, hydroforming, hemming, etc.) related to the use of aluminum, high
strength steels and other advanced materials.
Current Project
Quality in Hemming
Hemming is
a mechanical forming and joining method that is typically used
to connect two sheet metal components, such as the inner and outer
panels of automobile doors or deck lids. It is used to create
a smooth edge on a sheet metal component by folding the edge of
the sheet metal onto itself for appearance and safety considerations.
The quality of hemming process
has substantial influence on the construction of car bodies since
the appearance of a car depends largely on the quality of the
hemmed edges of its external panels such as door, hood and trunk
lid. As the requirements for lighter and more fuel efficient vehicles
become more demanding, the substitution of aluminum for automotive
sheet steel is gaining increased attention. An understanding of
the formability differences between aluminum sheet and drawing
quality steel is essential for better design and quality.
The objectives of this project is to understand the influence of
materials, process and tools on the quality of hems through
computational, and experimental research.
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Forming