Chrysler 2005 Annual Report Download - page 18

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Upstream, by working together with universities, private institutions
and consortia in basic research and training, and
Downstream, by continuing to work on the issues related to
mobility and its environmental impact, and by cooperating with
employers’ associations and chambers of commerce in Southern
Italy to help the area’s SMEs make the most of their skills.
Significant achievements were made in the following areas:
Biomechanics.The Elasis Biomechanics Centre developed simulation
methods for the crash tests called for by international regulatory
requirements and rating systems.This work has extended the range
of experimental tests that can be simulated, and ensured that
simulations are more representative of the complex physical
phenomena that takeplace during impact. Simulations have been
developed for frontal, side and rear impact tests, whiplash tests and
knee impact tests with adult occupants and children.These testing
and statistical analysis methods were applied during the development
of all new Fiat Auto models, and contributed significantly to the
achievement of the 5-star Euro NCAP ratings for Fiat Croma,
Grande Punto and Alfa 159.
225 Minicargo development project. As part of the joint venture
between Fiat Auto and PSA, Elasis is working together with Tofas to
develop the body shell, trim and closure panels for this new vehicle.
Particular attention is devoted to optimising weight and standardising
components by applying innovative robust design methods and an
integrated system of product archetypes based on Knowledge Based
Engineering (KBE) technology.
New product planning. During 2005, Elasis worked together
with Fiat Auto in setting out the requirements for the C-segment
models envisaged bythe Product Plan, and with Ferrari in
developing the architecture of the new 8-cylinder front-engined
roadster, which will be the forerunner of the Ferrari’s future
12-cylinder offerings.
Fast Dynamics Prototype.The Fast Dynamics Prototype – known
by its Italian acronym PDR – was developed in order to boost the
actuation speed of vehicle dynamics systems.This prototype will
serveas the foundation for further work on developing technologies
capable of coping with the most extreme conditions.
FIRE engine evolution. In 2005, Elasis continued its development and
product engineering work on 8 and 16-valve spark ignition engines
in the FIRE series with displacements ranging from 1.1 to 1.4 litres. In
particular, the first engine in the new FIRE family was developed and
put into production: a 1.4-litre unit with variable valve timing which
will be installed on the Grande Punto, Idea, Doblò, Palio and Siena,
all of which meet Euro 4 emission requirements.
In addition, a demonstrator (engine plus vehicle) for the turbocharged
16-valve1.4-litre Fire powerplant was developed on the Alfa 147
platform. Elasis is nowengineering this unit for installation on the
Grande Punto and 198 Stilo.
Product Lifecycle Management. Elasis employs a systematic Product
Lifecycle Management approach which integrates CAD, CAE, CAM,
CAT, Digital Mock-Up,Virtual Reality, Product Data Management and
Engineering BOM solutions. In addition to being a key factor in the
Centre’s work, these capabilities are also transferred to the various
Sectorsto encourage cross-functional coordination and the spread
of best practices.
New“HardwareIn the Loop!” (HIL) model.Aproject was launched
to develop a vehicle dynamics model that can be used in realtime
hardware-in-the-loop applications, and should be concluded by the
end of 2006. A simulation model is now nearing completion which
implements the control logic that superintends driveability and will thus
makeit possible to assess vehicle handling early in the design stage.
Workplace ergonomics.The workstations along the Alfa 159
assemblylines were certified, and Elasis cooperated with the Centro
Ricerche Fiat in several newly-launched studies for determining and
validating ergonomic indexes.
Traffic safety and mobility. In partnership with the Province
of Milan, Elasis continued to work on the SUMMIT project. The
project, which focuses on innovative models and methods for
road user safety, is partially funded by the Lombardy regional
administration.
In the area of education and prevention, Elasis and Italy’s State Police
jointly developed the ICARO project, which aims at promoting
a culture of traffic safety through a presentation which will tour
a number of Italian cities.
Report on Operations Research and Innovation