Process/Enabling Technologies  Nominee  Textron Automotive

Description   Low Cost/Soft Touch Using Intellimold
OEM, Model, Model Year   DaimlerChrysler, Dodge Ram, 2002
System Supplier, Contact, Phone   Textron Automotive, Dan Tesolin, (248)829-7453
Molder/Processor, Contact and Phone   Rantoul Products, Ed Rutkowske, (734)477-9212
Toolmaker, Contact and Phone   HS Die & Engineering, Ron Plaza, (248)373-4048
Material Supplier, Contact and Phone   Advanced Elastomer Systems & ExxonMobil, Jeff Raymond & Gary Lucciardi, (248)377-6244
Generic resin type   TPE & PP
Resin Trade Name   Santoprene & Escorene
Grade   111-45 & PD 7414
OEM Engineer, Title and Phone   Rob Karjala, I/P Engineering Supervisor, (248)829-7494
Nominated by, Company   Dan Tesolin, Textron Automotive
Address   2050 Auburn Road, Auburn Hills, MI, 48326
Phone   (248)829-7453
Fax   (248)829-7004
Email   dtesolin@tac.textron.com
Summary Two materials are blended together and injection molded via closed-looped control to create part with increased rigidity while maintaining soft feel. Weight Savings: 3% Cost Savings: 15% Cost Avoidance: 10% reduced clamp tonnnage, 3% scrap reduction
Most Innovative Feature two materials blended together and one-shot injection molded via closed-looped control
Other Innovative Features Increased rigidity while maintaining soft feel.
Forming Process closed-looped control injection molding with applied cavity pressure
First time process used? Yes
Previous Process Used 100% Santoprene or 100% Polypropylene/injection molded
Tooling Innovations 2 pressure transducers and seal around mold cavity periphery tied into control panel software
New Material Developments none
Weight Savings 3%
Direct Cost Savings 15%
Indirect Cost Savings 10% reduced clamp tonnnage, 3% scrap reduction
Direct Consumer Benefit Yes - soft touch & improved fit-and-finish
Translates to other Vehicles? Yes - it can be applied to other vehicles
Safety Benefits none
Environmental Benefits none
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