Sean Murrells – Tool & Design Manager
sean.murrells@lynar.co.uk
1. Summary
Lynar was approached to make a Vent Hood Assembly for a local bus repair company.
2. Introduction
A complicated welded aluminium assembly is needed to be produced in a competitive fashion for gluing to an engine door bus panel.
Example of product:
3. Product Detail
The vent assembly was originally designed with many slats that are individually welded to the outer fame. This made the assembly cumbersome and difficult to put together.
4. Design Methodology
The mating parts of the slats were re designed with a T shaded feature. This would allow the assembly to lock together before welding. The T feature can be easily twisted with a special hand tool.
The following design changes were enacted:
Old Design:
New T Feature:
Shown formed without frame.
Shown assembled in frame.
5. Findings
The time taken to put together the assembly was reduced and less TIG welding was required overall.
6. Design
The design was drawn in 3D Cad using the latest Solidworks software.
7. Tool Manufacture
A twist hand tool was easily produced in our tool room.
8. Production
The old design was initially used in the production of 1 off assembly with ongoing multiples of 10 off required.
9. Conclusion
A very interesting and successful product improvement had been made here, allowing Lynar to competitively manufacture this large assembly.
10. Copyright – Lynar Manufacturing
