Current Research

Hatch Closure System Analysis

Principal investigators: 

John Ziegert and Gregory Mocko

Graduate students:

John Adcox and Praveenkumar Marimuthu

Sponsor:

BMW Manufacturing

Brief abstract: 

The goal of this project is to investigate hatch closure systems for SUVs/SAVs and to evaluate the robustness of the design relative to functional requirements and manufacturability. The project will also work to make recommendations for design and/or manufacturing changes to improve manufacturability, functional performance and durability. Functional requirements include, but are not limited to, squeak and rattle, closing force, water leak, latch function and durability.

Impact: 

Improved hatch closure system designs for manufacturability and improved functionality.

Project schedule:

January 2009 to August 2009