Honda R&D recently entered into a partnership with Autodesk in order to implement AM and generative design technology. The partnership was created in order to help Honda R&D reduce the weight of the crankshaft that gets used in Honda vehicles. Hirosumi Todaka, a mechanical and fluid machinery designer for Honda R&D, stated that the organization had a goal of reducing the crankshaft weight by 30%.
Using Netfabb and Fusion 360 Autodesk created models according to Honda's design specifications. The auto-manufacture implemented data from the generative design system into models. Todaka even stated that the system created a design that had not been previously considered by the organization. Additionally the new crankshaft exceeded the partnerships expectations and reduced the weight by a total of 50%.
Image Credit: Honda/ Autodesk
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Generative Design
- Implementing generative design technology in automotive manufacturing.
- Additive Manufacturing
- Utilizing additive manufacturing technology to reduce weight in automotive components.
- Partnerships with Software Companies
- Forming partnerships with software companies to leverage their expertise in automotive design.
Where This Applies
- Automotive Manufacturing
- Opportunity for automotive manufacturers to incorporate generative design and additive manufacturing for lightweight components.
- Software Development
- Software companies can explore partnerships with automotive manufacturers to provide generative design solutions for weight reduction.
- Engineering and Design Services
- Engineering and design service providers can offer expertise in implementing generative design technology for automotive clients.
