First, it can easily process the complex three-dimensional shapes of seat components. Remote laser welding (where the laser processing head is a significant distance away from the part) has proven to be a very useful tool for manufacturing these for several reasons. Metal and other materials are even sometimes combined in multi-layer composites. Modern car seats consist of quite a number of individual parts assembled into fairly complex structures. The challenge of welding high-strength steel Automakers have already been using them in frames for some time, and now they’re making their way into seating, too. These materials have an even higher strength-to-weight ratio than other steels, so they’re really useful in hitting lightweighting goals. One of the latest developments in car seat design is the use of high-strength, low-alloy steel (HSLA) and advanced high-strength steel (AHSS). And, to use plastics, composites, or other really lightweight materials for parts that don’t contribute significantly to the seat’s strength or rigidity. How do you make car seats that are both strong and light? The key is to use materials that are inherently stronger – like steel, titanium, and magnesium alloys – so that the individual components can be thinner and lighter without sacrificing mechanical strength. Doing this is such a big deal in the automotive industry that there’s even a specific term for it – “lightweighting.” Take a load off with high-strength steel This improves fuel efficiency and cuts emissions for gas-powered cars, and increases the range of electric vehicles. And, auto manufacturers are under tremendous pressure to reduce vehicle weight. Because making a structure stronger usually means making it heavier, too. In a crash, the mechanical strength of the seat structure is the first line of defense in protecting vehicle occupants and preventing injury.īut, the flip side of that is weight. The driver and passengers are literally strapped into their seats.

But, for the engineers that design and build automotive seating, there’s quite a bit more to it.įirst of all, of course, is safety.

When most of us think about car seats, our concerns are usually about comfort and color choices, or maybe options like built-in heating or massaging.

Weld assistant 6 crack