All articles by Mike Farish – Page 2
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AI data analytics for the paintshop
The presence of any airborne dust in a paintshop always presents a challenge to creating a high-quality paint finish. Effective filtration is the most basic way to prevent contamination but for BMW that is not enough. Mike Farish reports on how the OEM is using artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to develop better preventative measures
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Digital harmonisation
With electric powertrains presenting different performance requirements in terms of NVH, digital tools have become invaluable in product development. Mike Farish reports on how Valeo has made good use of digital design analysis software packages
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Thinking outside the box: lightweight battery enclosures
The lightweighting of electric vehicle (EV) structures is a key element in helping to extend the endurance ranges necessary to accelerate their increasing adoption. A specific target for weight reduction is the compartment used to house the batteries
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Optimising the process: AI in robotic assembly cells
The Ford Transmission Plant in Livonia, Michigan, has been the location for a major innovation in automotive assembly operations, utilising AI to support the use of a robot in a particular automated assembly role. Mike Farish reports
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NVH reduction for electric vehicle interiors
Brian Pour, president and CEO of Auria Solutions, identifies the increasing importance of electric vehicles as a major factor influencing the development of vehicle interiors and one that will pick up even more pace given recent political change. Mike Farish reports
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Interior innovations
The new generation of electric vehicles offer a great opportunity to accelerate the development of smart interiors. Mike Farish reports on the application of new technologies and materials
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A collaborative approach to automation
Now in the guise of ‘cobots’, robots often work not just alongside, but with their operations integrated with those of co-located people
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EV battery recycling: cost and components
What happens to EV batteries at the end of the vehicle’s life? Mike Farish reports on recycling and reuse options
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Element of surprise: battery suppliers explore gains in the chemistry
One area of electric vehicle battery technology that is growing in importance is chemistry. Mike Farish reports on two new developments that could significantly improve battery durability and recharge times
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Audi mobile maintenance app keeps Ingolstadt in the know
Maintenance teams at the Ingolstadt factory have a new app on test, developed an inhouse to provide live updates from across the assembly process direct to their smartphones
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More views from the “lighthouse”: Industry 4.0 instils culture change at Ford Otosan
Ranked among the WEF Global Lighthouse Network, Ford Otosan’s Industry 4.0 strategy has improved mindsets as well as datasets
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Viewed from the “lighthouse”: Renault plants connected to smart production
Recognised by the WEF Global Lighthouse Network, Renault’s deep dive into industry 4.0 has launched a plethora of active improvement projects
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Investing in testing: better scrutiny for complex new vehicles
Rigorous testing of new vehicles, systems and components has become more important as complexity of the products increases and pressure to reduce time to market grows. AMS visits Test World in Finland to see some of the developments introduced to meet this demand…
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Measure for measure: as vehicle tech advances, so do the test methods
To improve vehicle and component quality, and reduce time to market for new models, testing technologies need to be smarter and faster
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Setting the pace – AP Racing speeds up smart production
A new €1m assembly line is helping UK-based high-performance brake component supplier AP Racing take a smarter approach to production
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Breaking the mould: Grainger & Worrall go beyond the block
With the onset of the EV age, casting specialists are demonstrating versatility and diversifying away from engine block production. Mike Farish reports on the solutions Grainger & Worrall has developed to produce its new generation of cast parts
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Material changes guide the new additive manufacturing routes
Additive manufacturing is offering not only a wider range of application techniques but also materials with polymers now joined by metals and even ceramics
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Additive from the desktop
Dunlop has taken its first step into the use of additive technology with the purchase of a desktop machine
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BMW takes additive manufacturing from prototype to serial lines
OEMs and tier suppliers are now integrating additive manufacturing processes into their production operations – a prime example is BMW
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Rise of the Valkyrie
Cosworth has stepped up its operations to make the engine for Aston Martin’s Valkyrie hypercar