Highly interesting post on the question of the reparability of large structural castings after a crash. Yes at ACTech GmbH we do prototypes for large structural castings and we do like them. First of all I noticed how many parts need to be removed before you even can reach the casting. BUT, that would be the same effort on a conventional car and that alone can make a repair too expensive for an older car. Cut lines for repairs are a clever idea. Also welding the casting (in place) can make repairs more affordable. And a big one, it seems the casting is often still intact when a traditional structure needs repair. The engineers at Tesla managed a solid design with their "Gigacasting". I'm waiting to see long run data if cars with large structural castings are more likely to be unrepairable after an accident. #gigacasting #design #engineering
Lead Design Engineer | Machine Learning | BIW structure | Deep Learning | Computer Vision | Data Analysis | Statistics | PowerBI | Science engineer | Researcher
Advancing Gigacasting Repairs (New Techniques Improve Tesla Model Y Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency) Follow me for more technical insights: https://lnkd.in/evN3jc94 The video featuring John Sweigart, CEO of Evolve EV Specialists, provides a detailed breakdown of the repairability of Tesla Model Y gigacastings—challenging the earlier assumption that these massive cast components were irreparable. With advancements in repair methodologies, Tesla's gigacasting approach becomes more sustainable and cost-effective. >>> Key Technical Aspects of Gigacasting Repairs: - Precision Inspection with 3D Digital Measurement: The repair process begins with the removal of the quarter panel to access the rear gigacasting. Evolve EV uses 3D measurement tools to ensure that all structural points align precisely with Tesla’s manufacturing specifications. This guarantees that even slight misalignments are detected before further repairs. - Advanced Visual Inspection for Cracks and Distortion: Sweigart explains that aluminum castings may bend under impact but are prone to shattering under severe stress. Therefore, a comprehensive inspection is conducted to identify cracks, particularly in critical ribbed areas. - Cost-Effective Repair Methods with Modular Replacement: If damage is detected, the repair strategy involves cutting out the damaged section and attaching new pieces using structural adhesives, rivets, and backing plates. This method avoids the need for full component replacement, significantly lowering repair costs. - Heat Map System for Repair Zone Identification: A heat map system categorizes areas of the gigacasting based on their repair eligibility. While red zones were initially non-repairable, evolving standards now allow for limited repairs in certain areas with Tesla engineering approval. >>> Expanded Repair Capabilities: - Welding and Backing Plate Applications: - Cracks under 50 millimeters can be welded directly in specific areas. - For cracks up to 30 millimeters, backing plates provide additional structural reinforcement, expanding repair possibilities and reducing waste. - Enhanced Sustainability and Repair Efficiency: The ability to repair instead of replacing entire castings offers a sustainable solution by reducing scrap material and allowing vehicles to return to service faster, aligning with Tesla’s long-term goals. Read more technical article below : 👇 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 https://lnkd.in/dmt4fUMq #Tesla #Gigacasting #EVRepair #AutomotiveInnovation #SustainableManufacturing #AdvancedEngineering #ProductionEfficiency
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3moI agree. With the rapid advancements in sensor technology and driver assistance systems, we can indeed expect future vehicles to experience significantly fewer accidents. These innovations, from collision avoidance to autonomous emergency braking, are becoming more sophisticated each year. As a result, the need for repairs, especially on structural castings, might decrease considerably. Over time, this could lead to a reduced impact on repair costs and overall vehicle durability, making structural castings even more viable in modern car design.