|
|
|
Experimenting and developing technologies related to the forming and the assembling of sheet metal.
|
DESIGN SUPPORT
|
To reduce vehicle weight and thereby cut energy consumption, Verbom used the thinnest materials possible while preserving mechanical property integrity. Structural adhesive assembly allows for the use of very thin sheet metal, and unlike welding, it does not alter the characteristics of the alloy. It also allows for the dispersion of the stress over a larger area.
We combined this technology with a honeycomb matrix made of polypropylene that was “sandwiched” between two aluminum sheets. The result was a lightweight and inexpensive rigid wall structure. Verbom then developed a method for numerically modeling this type of assembly to predict resistance under different loading scenarios.
- At correlation tests, a load of 3000 lb (the weight of a small car) was supported with a sandwich wall of 4 ft. x 12 in. x 2 in.
Our extensive knowledge of sheet metal forming allowed us to propose a new welded alternative to a manufactured part that was relatively expensive. The finite element analysis, performed by Verbom, on the ATV chassis loads allowed us to achieve the equivalent mechanical strength, while significantly reducing production costs and product weight.
Verbom designed and built the new sheet metal tooling, produced the stampings and assembled the in-process parts with robotic welding.
- 50% weight reduction
Verbom was mandated to design train seats in stainless steel and fiberglass with a tubular steel structure. For this major project, several standards and specifications had to be respected: those of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), and the Railway Passenger Car Inspection & Safety Rule.
The project also included tolerance studies to ensure a robust/repeatable assembly during production. In addition to performing the finite element analysis, we had to perform over 30 different cycling tests in the laboratory to validate the mechanical strength and life of the components. All technical reports demonstrating specification compliance were written by Verbom, with the goal of having several types of seats for this rail project approved by the client.
- 30 types of laboratory tests
In collaboration with Bombardier Aerospace (official sponsor of the Games), Verbom developed and produced the Olympic Torch for the 2010 Winter Games. Verbom contributed to the redesign of the torch to allow for production.
- 17000 torches manufactured.
Université de Sherbrooke
École de technologie supérieure
National Research Council Canada
Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et des Exportations
Canada economic Development 
Centre québécois de recherche et de développement de l’aluminium
Alouette