SPE Automotive Division Names Finalists for 49th Annual Automotive Innovation Awards Competition

Media Contact:  Teri Chouinard, SPE Auto. Div. Comm. Chair, 248.701.8003, teri@intuitgroup.com.

Troy, (DETROIT) MICH.– The Automotive Division of the SPE-Inspiring Plastics Professionals recently announced the finalists for its 49th annual Automotive Innovation Awards Competition, the oldest and largest recognition event in the automotive and plastics industries.  Nominations were first subjected to a pre-qualification review and then were presented before a panel of industry experts on September 26-27, 2019. That panel sent forward the most innovative nominations (category finalists) to the Blue Ribbon judging round, which was held October 4, 2019.Category and Grand Award winners selected during the Blue Ribbon judging round will be announced on the evening of November 6, 2019 during the 49th SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Gala. Finalists from this year’s competition are listed below in category and submission order.

CATEGORY:  Additive Manufacturing

Sunglass Bin

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford Explorer SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Methode Electronics, Inc. / Methode Electronics, Inc.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Celanese Corp. / RGM Tooling Consultants, Inc.
  • Material / Process:  Celstran PP-GF20-02 LFT-PP / Injection Molding; 3D Printed H13 Steel

Description: Additive Manufacturing was used to produce a single tooling insert (lifter) that replaced 2 conventionally machined lifters to mold an injection molded sunglass stowage bin.  That enabled design changes to produce a deeper pocket with a heavier undercut that still could be molded without hotspots, warpage, or demolding issues and without needing to switch to a more costly resin.  The new deeper bin design also better meets customer requirements while reducing cycle time, molding scrap, tooling maintenance, and improving dimensional stability in the final part.


 Lug Nut Starter

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 General Motors Co. Chevrolet Silverado pickup
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Stratasys, Ltd. / Eckhart
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker:  Stratasys, Ltd. / Eckhart
  • Material / Process:  PA 12 / Additive Manufacturing

Description: This patent-pending lug nut starter tool was produced via additive manufacturing.  Its unique design eliminates the need for a lug wrench or Jemms head tool, battery drive, and charger.  User ergonomics are improved and all lug nuts can be started at once on a given wheel rather than starting them individually.  Since torque output is reduced, there is far less chance of cross-threading nuts.  Additionally, tooling cost is reduced $2,000-$3,000 USD/tool, no additional equipment is needed and the design can be adapted to any circular bolt pattern.


Instrument Panel Delete Plug

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 Ford Motor Co. Ford F-150 Raptor pickup (China market)
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Detroit Manufacturing Systems, LLC / Ford Motor Co.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker:  Carbon, Inc.  / N/A
  • Material / Process:  EPX82 2K epoxy / 3D Printing

Description: This 3D printed production part with Class A appearance passed all relevant requirements, including UV exposure.  It expedited design, testing, and production, eliminated $70,000 USD in tooling costs, and saved 3 months’ time.  The aesthetically pleasing delete plug with logo is preferred over a non-functional button.


CATEGORY:  Aftermarket and Limited Edition/Specialty Vehicles

Full-Length Side Storage Box

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 General Motors Co. GMC Sierra & Chevrolet Silverado pickups
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Gemini Group-Regency Plastics, Inc.  / Hutchinson, Eberhard Mfg. Co., Gemini Plastics Inc., Sierra Plastics Inc., & GPM Profile Extrusion, Regency Plastics, Inc.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Washington Penn Plastics Co., Inc.  / Midwest Mold Builders, Inc.
  • Material / Process:  PPC1GF15-UV YZ9A 15% GR-PP/ Blow Molding & Injection Molding 

Description: These full-length (77-in./196-cm) side storage boxes attach via the D-ring tie downs and sit on the wheel wells of a full-size pickup, eliminating customer-visible fasteners and brackets as well as the need to drill new holes for attachments.  The MIC, grained blow-molded boxes and lids are 25-30% lighter than comparable steel or aluminum boxes and easy to install/remove.  Lockable lids open into the bed, facilitating access to contents while keeping smaller items out of the main bed and securing valuable items.  Injection molded latch cover, latch bezel, and handle and extruded weather seals complete the units.


Illuminated Emblem Light Guide

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 General Motors Co. GMC Sierra pickup & Yukon SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Windsor Mold Group / Global Lighting Technologies, Inc.
  • Material Supplier /Toolmaker: Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd./Global Lighting Technologies, Inc.
  • Material / Process:  Tarflon LC1500 PC / Injection Molding

Description: Both size and shape of this emblem made it difficult to use traditional radial design with a single LED on the light guide to ensure consistent light output along the entire path. Placing an LED behind each letter would have increased significantly costs and complexity and impacted mating components. By laser etching the perimeter of the light guide tool, a high degree of control over light intensity was achieved, lowering costs 20%. Highest etch density is used at the extremes to maximize light output, while lightest etch density is required near the light source.


Multiple Additively Manufactured Components 

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Jaguar Land Rover Ltd. Jaguar XE SV Project 8 supercar
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  HP Inc. / Jaguar Land Rover Ltd.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: HP Inc., DyeMansion GmbH / N/A
  • Material / Process:  HP High-reusability PA 12 / HP Multi Jet Fusion

Description: Additive manufacturing proved the most efficient and cost-effective method for producing 19 parts on this high-performance sedan whose total build volume will be limited to 300 cars. Both development and production parts were produced on the same printer platform, which eliminated significant tooling investment (est. at $123,000 USD), as well as storage and maintenance costs. All 19 parts print at one time in a kit, and multiple kits can be produced at the same time. Additionally, parts offer better bonding adhesion than conventionally produced parts and passed paint adhesion tests.


CATEGORY:  Body Exterior

Composite Pickup Box

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 General Motors Co. GMC Sierra LD FST pickup
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Continental Structural Plastics/Continental Structural Plastics
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Teijin Ltd./Paragon D&E, Model Die & Mold, Inc., Altron Automation, & Legacy Industries
  • Material / Process:  Sereebo A235Y carbon fiber-reinforced PA6 sheet / Compression Molding

Description:  This is industry’s first pickup box in thermoplastic composite and carbon composite.  It saved 62 lb/28 kg, provided best-in-class impact resistance/durability, the unpainted UV-stable material eliminated the need for a bedliner (saving another 40 lb/18 kg), and numerous customer features were molded in, including functional compartment dividers and motorcycle tire pockets.   The ability to achieve a deeper draw during molding increased cargo capacity. Significant technical challenges were overcome due to use of novel materials, processes, coatings and joining methods.  The box is fully recyclable and some scrap is reused on the vehicle.


Active Air Deflector

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 FCA NA LLC Ram pickup
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Magna Exteriors / Prism Plastics, Inc., US Farathane Corp.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: BASF Corp., DSM Engineering Plastics, Ascend Performance Materials, RTP Co. / Prism Plastics, Inc., Quest Industries, Inc., Precision Die & Machine Co.
  • Material / Process:  Ultramid B3WG7 BK 35% GR-PA6, and Akulon K224-HG6 30% GR-PA 6, Vydyne R533H BK02 33% GR-PA 6/6, KTPE 85A, Nylabond 6091-85A black TPE / Injection Molding 

Description: This frame-mounted active air deflector is located forward of the vehicle, below the bumper, and activates/stows at set speeds to reduce drag, improve aerodynamics, and boost fuel economy.  It would take a vehicle mass reduction of 100 lb/45 kg to achieve the same 0.7 mpg fuel-efficiency improvement.  The system is designed to withstand high-energy impacts thanks to a unique actuator containing a mechanical clutch and a 2-shot injection molded blade.


Front End Module with Structural Bolster with Integrated AGS 

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford Explorer SUV / Lincoln Aviator SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Flex-N-Gate Corp. / Flex-N-Gate Corp.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Celanese Corp. / Integrity Tool & Mold
  • Material / Process:  Celstran PPGF40-20 AD3004 black LFT-PP/ Injection Molding 

Description: The largest known and most fully integrated structural bolster/front-end module carrier to date, this system incorporates upper and lower active grille shutter housing structures, a direct-mounted crash sensor, an IIHS Small Offset structure in the impact beam, a lower cooling pack support structure, and latch reinforcement and mounting integration.  The injection molded design with overmolded steel inserts eliminated a large metal reinforcement, reducing mass 10% and cost 20% vs. the prior model.  Thanks to significant parts integration, material and fastener usage and assembly-plant line space and labor were reduced.  It supports 300 build variations across 2 platforms.


Glass Run Sealing System 

•    OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford Explorer SUV
•    Tier Supplier / Processor:  Cooper Standard / Cooper Standard 
•    Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Cooper Standard & ExxonMobil Corp. / Cooper Standard
•    Material / Process:  Fortex TPV / Extrusion 

Description: A new class of elastomer combines the best EPDM and TPV materials typically used in automotive weather seals without their negatives.  It is lighter, offers best-in-class compression set, weathering, and chemical resistance while maintaining high elasticity and improved NVH and scratch resistance.  The non-conductive elastomer is plasticizer-free, low VOC, contains no nitrosamines, and is non-blooming and non-fogging.  It also offers broad color matching and improved color/gloss finish for enhanced aesthetics and is much easier for operators to install on the assembly line.


CATEGORY:  Body Interior 

Integrated Button Carrier Modular Strategy

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Explorer/Aviator/Corsair SUVs
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Methode Electronics, Inc. / Methode Electronics, Inc.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: The Materials Group / RGM Tooling Consultants, Inc.
  • Material / Process:  Opticarb 8085SE PC/ABS / Injection Molding

Description: To reduce overhead console complexity, a new design was developed that integrated mechanical, lighting, electrical, and safety functions into a single modular button carrier injection molded from MIC PC/ABS. With all program variants, this reduced part count from 70 to 17/vehicle, achieved a $7 USD cost savings/vehicle and $1.42-million USD program savings for tooling and testing. No button binding issues have been seen, BSR was improved, and the headliner fit better. To date, 2 patents have been filed and one has been granted on this technology.


Glove-Box Latch

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford Explorer SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Detroit Manufacturing Systems LLC / Piolax Corp.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: BASF Corp., Trinseo, Polyplastics Co., Ltd., Ashtabula Rubber Co. / Lamko Tool and Mold
  • Material / Process:  Ultramid B3EG6 30% GR-PA 6, Pulse 2000ez PC/ABS, Ultraform M90-44 POM, ARC PN 43181 70 durometer polychloroprene / Injection Molding

Description: A patent-pending glove-box latch redesign featured 5 innovations that improved fit & finish, reduced NVH, lowered costs 30%, and allowed for automated assembly. First, both housing halves are identical, eliminating an injection molding tool. Second, a molded-in L-shape elastic element replaces the small gap normally left to ensure latch-pawl engagement, eliminating movement and noise. Third, an interlocking design replaces a snap-fit, making the latch more robust. Fourth, a double torsion spring reduces twist on latch components and facilitates automated assembly. Fifth, locators in each mold half function as the stop feature.


Seatback Suspension System

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Lincoln Aviator SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Leggett & Platt, Inc. / Sie-Co Plastics
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Advanced Composites / Sle-Co Plastics
  • Material / Process:  ADX 5017 18% talc filled/UV stabilized/0 degree TPO, ADX 5028M 15% talc filled/-40 degree TPO

Description: Two grades of injection molded TPO are key to achieving iconic styling and flexible bolster comfort and support to accommodate different-size seat occupants in front row seats. The 3-piece seat back system — inner closeout, flex-arch bolster and carrier support, and comfort carrier — snap together to form a unique floating style and a comfort-optimized suspension system with improved craftsmanship and safety. The final seat assembly is over 2.2 lb/1 kg lighter and 10-13% less costly than traditional seating and has had 7 patents granted to date.


 CATEGORY:  Chassis/Hardware

Rear-Differential Front Bracket 

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 FCA NA LLC Jeep Cherokee SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Boge Rubber & Plastics / Boge Rubber & Plastics
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: BASF Corp. / N/A 
  • Material / Process:  Ultramid A3WG10CR 50% GR-PA 6/6 / Injection Molding 

Description: A critical diecast and machined aluminum bracket was replaced by an injection molded bracket in 50% GR-PA 6/6 in this demanding rear differential module. The composite material was not only 30% lighter and saved $1 USD/car direct costs vs. the benchmark aluminum, but its matrix provided 10x higher damping, improving NVH performance, and it fit current packaging space for this running change. The part passed all performance and durability requirements, eliminated corrosion issues, and will significantly reduce tooling costs over the life of the program.


Window-Regulator Plastic Fastener

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford Explorer SUV / Lincoln Aviator SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Hi-Lex Corp. / Hi-Lex Corp.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Celanese Corp. & ExxonMobil Corp. / ITW Automotive 
  • Material / Process:  Hostaform S9363 POM & Santoprene 101-55 TPV / Injection Molding & Overmolding

Description: A new and more efficient design for window-regulator retention fasteners was developed using dual-shot injection molded LFT-PP overmolded with a TPV seal.  The patent-pending design, industry’s first to provide quick assembly of integrated window regulators, works with hex or Torx tools for greater flexibility and reduced assembly time and effort. It eliminated the need for grease, lowered mass 1.65 lb/0.75 kg per vehicle, and reduced cost 20%. The fastener already is being used on 33-million vehicles with another 10-million expected to be added as the application spreads to other regions.


Precision Wheel-Balance System 

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 General Motors Co. Chevrolet Corvette sports car
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  The 3M Co. / The 3M Co.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: The 3M Co. / N/A 
  • Material / Process:  3M Dyneon THV fluoropolymer / Extrusion

Description: A unique composite with high density (5.8 SG) has replaced traditional metallic wheel weights in steel, zinc, or lead. The extruded fluoropolymer contains 67% by volume post-industrial, corrosion-resistant steel alloy and can be recycled again. Supplied as a continuous tape, and with tailored magnetic properties, the weights can be precisely dispensed using a fully automated wheel-balance system in smaller increments for improved ride and less tire wear. The weights reduce assembly time up to 50%, lower costs approximately 10%, significantly reduce and simplify inventory, and offer a broader range of colors.


Particulate Matter Air Sensor

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Lincoln Aviator SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Amphenol Corp. / Ga Hyeon Enpla Co., Ltd.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: LG Chem, Ltd. / Ga Hyeon Enpla Co., Ltd.
  • Material / Process:  Lupoy PC/ASA EU5000G / Injection Molding

Description: This highly accurate (PM 2.5/fine dust) air sensor provides the sensitivity of costly lab equipment with the compactness, durability, and cost-effectiveness required in the auto industry.  Five of the maintenance-free sensor’s 6 components are molded in PC/ASA, selected for ability to mold complex geometries, hold tight tolerances, provide smooth interior surfaces, and function at temperatures between -40F/-40C to 185F/85C. Owing to its light weight, compact design, and nearly-silent operation, it was able to be packaged in the overhead console.



CATEGORY:  Environmental

100% PCR Carbon Canister Housing

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 Ford Motor Co. Ford Mustang Sports Car
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Delphi Technologies PLC / MGS Mfg. Group
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Wellman Advanced Materials / MGS Mfg. Group
  • Material / Process:  EcoLene PP8004-BK1 20% GR-PP / Melt Compounding & Injection Molding

Description: The PP backing from PCR carpeting is given another use life by being recycled back into the injection molded carbon canister housing for passenger cars.  This is the first 100% PCR PP-based carbon cannister. By replacing virgin PP, the recycled resin reduces cost 25% with no sacrifice to processing or molded-part performance, but increases sustainability. It is currently being rolled out on more than 20 Ford programs globally.


Rice Hull-Filled PP

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 Ford Motor Co. Ford Edge SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  ARaymond / ARaymond
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: RheTech A HEXPOL Co. / ARaymond
  • Material / Process:  RH10P325-01 10% rice hull-filled PP / Melt Compounding & Injection Molding

Description: One of 8 types of renewable materials in Ford vehicles, rice hulls are used as reinforcement for injection molded PP wiring channels, replacing 20% talc-filled PP without loss of porperties.  The high silica content of rice hulls provides high resistance to mildew and fungal growth and offers better flame retardance and lower moisture absorption than cellulose-reinforced plastics.  Versus outgoing talc-filled PP, the application also is 10% lighter and 10% less costly, yet meets all OEM specs.  It also offers an additional revenue stream to farmers.


CATEGORY:  Materials 

LED Front Fog Lamp

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. F-150 pickup
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Flex-N-Gate Corp. / Ventra Plastics 
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Covestro LLC / Krieger Craftsmen Inc.
  • Material / Process:  Makrolon TC8030 thermally-conductive PC / Injection Molding

Description: A thermally and electrically conductive PC housing reduced weight and complexity and improved light output on this front fog-lamp assembly. Replacing die cast aluminum, the injection molded part reduces weight 46%, component count 12%, and direct costs 20% vs. the incumbent design. The material’s high thermal conductivity manages heat well, its high modulus handles structural loads, its low CLTE provides dimensional stability, its electrical conductivity dissipates static charge, and its low EMI shielding helps with electronic integration. The material is fully recyclable and supports high production rates.


High-Gloss Black MIC Wiper-Motor Cover

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 General Motors Co. Chevrolet Suburban SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  ABC Inoac Exterior Systems / ABC Technologies
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Lotte Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. / Delta Mold, Inc.
  • Material / Process:  Starex WX-9950UV ASA/PMMA  / Injection Molding

Description: A novel ASA/PMMA blend overcame challenges on a MIC high-gloss black wiper motor cover that the individual resins could not. While ASA provides good impact, ductility, and weatherability (in low gloss), it scratches easily and has retention issues in high gloss. And PMMA offers high gloss and brilliant color, scratch resistance, and good weatherability in high gloss, but suffers from poor impact strength and ductility. The new blend offers both color and gloss retention, scratch resistance, weatherability (regardless of gloss level), plus impact strength and ductility. Fully recyclable, it eliminates paint and saves $4 USD/vehicle.


Steering Wheel Bezel

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford F-250 & F-350 pickups
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  ZF Friedrichshafen AG / Eclipse Mold, Inc.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Celanese Corp. / Eclipse Mold, Inc.
  • Material / Process:  Celanyl NKX-101 PA 6  / Injection Molding

Description: A multipronged approach eliminated paint on a PA 6 steering-wheel bezel. First, a special pigment package, which achieved the desired color, flop, pop, and depth of color to match the benchmark painted metallic grey, was developed. Second, a knitline issue was resolved by thinning out three areas of the part that are hidden under the steering-wheel cover in the final assembly and adding overflows. The MIC PA 6 met all performance and aesthetic requirements while eliminating the cost and environmental impact of paint and reducing warranty issues in this high-touch area.


Glass Wool-Reinforced Composites for Improved Scratch Resistance

  • OEM Make & Model:  2017 Hyundai Motor Co. Hyundai Elantra sedan
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Seoyon E-Wha / Seoyon E-Wha
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Daehacom Co., Ltd. / Seoyon E-Wha
  • Material / Process:  SW920 SA glass wool-reinforced PP / Injection Molding

Description: To improve both long-term scratch resistance and dimensional stability in injection molded PP interior trim panels, glass wool (crushed glass + sand produced from reclaimed/PIR building insulation) was used to replace talc, whiskers, and fiberglass. Because glass wool boosts mechanical properties vs. talc, filler content was reduced 5%, leading to lighter, less costly parts. Since it helps maintain surface finish longer, it should lower warranty claims. A unique process was developed to incorporate glass wool into the resin compound. Glass wool is difficult to dispose of, so this application gives it another use life.


SMC/LMC Rear Trunk Components

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 General Motors Co. Chevrolet Corvette sports car
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Molded Fiber Glass Companies/ Molded Fiber Glass Companies
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Molded Fiber Glass Companies / Century Tool & Gage
  • Material / Process:  LCM Float758 polyester/vinyl ester SMC  / Compression Molding

Description: A lower density (0.9 SG), structural composite, which literally floats on water, was developed to replace standard low-density SMC (1.25 SG), injection molded composite, and multipiece metallic structures for the vehicle’s rear and front trunks. Compared with metals, the new LCM material reduces mass approximately 10 lb/4.5 kg and direct costs while offering the flexibility of two storage trunks, lower NVH, and higher parts-consolidation opportunities. The material/process combination, with a low-VOC unsaturated polyester/vinyl ester matrix, also made it possible to successfully mold both front and rear trunks with tall walls and deep-draw sides.


 CATEGORY:  Powertrain

Transmission Gear Shroud

  • OEM Make & Model:  2017 Ford Motor Co. Ford F-150 pickup
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Stackpole International / MacLean-Fogg Co., Engineered Plastics Components Inc.
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: DuPont de Nemours, Inc. / Gibson Automation
  • Material / Process:  Hytrel 8238 TPC-ET / Injection molding

Description: A new transmission gear shroud cover and base protect the drive gear so it rotates freely without needing to push through transmission fluid, lowering effort, improving pump efficiency, and increasing vehicle MPG and the effective life of the transmission fluid. Injection molded TPC-ET replaced earlier steel covers with rubber seals that were heavier, more complex and costly, and suffered from more variation. Very aggressive snap fits permanently join cover to base once the assembly is completed. The same material molded very-thin provides a ductile seal. Costs were reduced 22%, weight lowered 65%, and NVH was improved.


Engine Badge

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 Ford Motor Co. Ford F-150 Raptor pickup
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Eagle Industries / Tribar Manufacturing, LLC  
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Celanese Corp. / N/A   
  • Material / Process:  Celanyl NKX-101 PA 6 / Injection Molding

Description: The first completely molded-in-color engine badge assembly replaced a previously unrecyclable and costly assembly combining painted and plated plastic and metal produced in 3 separate processes. In the new design, a single base resin (PA 6) was used to produce the entire badge. Three separate MIC pigment packages matched the benchmark part without color deviation. Unique metallic silver and color-stable red pigment packages replaced chrome-plated and painted PC/ABS, while a bronze pigment package replaced brushed aluminum. The final assembly reduces cost, environmental burden, and is slightly lighter.


 Fuel-Vapor Pump Assembly

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 General Motors Co. Cadillac XT4 CUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Pierburg GmbH / Swoboda Inc.  
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: BASF Corp. / Swoboda Inc.    
  • Material / Process:  Ultramid A3WG6 LS/A3EG6 PA 6/6 and LT/B3WG6  PA 6 / Injection Pre-Molding, Overmolding and Laser Welding

Description: The first all-plastic fuel vapor pump reduces VOCs and improves evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system efficiency while protecting against thermal shocks and holding rotors in place at high rotational speeds in a corrosive environment. Tough injection molded PA 6 and 6/6 provide parts consolidation and hold dimensional tolerances on key parts to 0.002 in./0.05 mm. An integrated pressure sensor offers real-time performance feedback. Overmolding and laser welding eliminate separate seals and fasteners, creating a leak-proof seal. Multiple tooling and process innovations were required to produce the complex assembly.


Plastic Coolant Tubes

  • OEM Make & Model:  2019 Volkswagen AG Audi A8 sedan 
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Teklas / PASS GmbH & Co. KG, ContiTech AG, Tristone Flowtech  
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Solvay Specialty Polymers / AFT Automotive GmbH, MKS-Kunststoffspritzguss GmbH   
  • Material / Process:  Ryton XE 3500 and 5430 PPS / Extrusion and Injection Molding

Description: Three grades of PPS with graduated flexural modulus values were used to develop unique powertrain fluid delivery tubes that provide mechanical retention values for 3000 hr in coolant fluid at 275F/135C and at underhood operating temperatures of 338F/170C. The new design, which combines extruded tubes and injection molded connectors, simplifies the very complex, multi-step, multi-material incumbent assemblies of metal, plastics, elastomers, and fittings. The final assembly halved weight and reduced costs 20%, and eliminated secondary operations necessary with metal designs, yet met all performance requirements.


Traction-Motor Connection Ring

  • OEM Make & Model:  2017 General Motors Co. Chevrolet Bolt BEV  
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  VC Company / Ecorea Industrial Co., Ltd.   
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: DuPont de Nemours, Inc. / Ecorea Industrial Co., Ltd.    
  • Material / Process:  Zytel HTN 51G35EF BK083 25% GR-PPA

Description: An integrated connection ring for EV traction motors provides electrical connections from stator windings, integrates and insulates stator leads, and provides ease of assembly for component connections. The novel multi-lead integrated connection design can be used with rigid or flexible leads, which are individually insulated and assembled. By reducing packaging space while maintaining electrical isolation to prevent discharge breakthrough, it contributed to optimized motor design. PPA was selected for its high temperature, high dielectric strength, 600-V comparative tracking index, and volume resistivity at operating temperatures, helping reduce mass and create more reliable motor connections.


CATEGORY:  Process / Assembly / Enabling Technologies

Rear Bumper

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 General Motors Co. Chevrolet Corvette sports car 
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Shape Corp. / Shape Corp. 
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: SGL Carbon SE, VectorPly Corp., Scott Bader Co. Ltd.  / Thomas GmbH + Co. Technik + Innovation KG   
  • Material / Process:  Crestapol 1250 PUR-acrylate reinforced with CF / Radius-Pultrusion

Description: The auto industry’s first pultruded curved bumper beam uses the unique radius-pultrusion process and equipment to achieve a hollow beam with central web in carbon fiber fabric-reinforced polyurethane/acrylate resin. The curved geometry was desired to better match rear styling and vehicle package space. The beam features an integral tow hook mounting and is assembled to the body-in-white (BIW), requiring excellent mechanicals at elevated temperature. The beam meets low-speed crash requirements while cutting mass by 4.9 lb/2.2 kg vs. a metal-inert gas (MIG) welded aluminum extrusion. 3D printing was used to produce mandrels to maintain the hollow interior.


Direct Back Foaming

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Ford Kuga Vignale CUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Yanfeng Automotive Systems / Yanfeng Automotive Systems 
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: Mondi Group, Benecke-Kaliko AG, BASF Corp., Celanese Corp., Jowat SE / AKE Knebel GmbH & Co. KG   
  • Material / Process:  PP foil, PUR Coverstock, Biogen 3 foam, 30% LFT-PP, & PUR adhesive / Injection Molding/Thermoforming/Closed-Mold Foaming

Description: With an estimated $24-million USD lifetime program savings, direct back foaming eliminates 83 minutes of time and 11 of the typical 16 process steps needed to produce a foamed and skinned IP pad. Interestingly, the same process can be used for base-model and higher-trim levels (including faux and real leather), eliminating multiple tools. It also eliminates PVC and reduces mass 3.3 lb/1.5 kg, while improving cabin NVH and creating a Class A surface.


 Laser Technology for Decorative Panels

  • OEM Make & Model:  2020 Ford Motor Co. Lincoln Aviator SUV
  • Tier Supplier / Processor:  Summit Polymers, Inc.  / Summit Polymers, Inc. & Spectrum Industries, Inc. 
  • Material Supplier / Toolmaker: SABIC, Techno-UMG America, Covestro AG / N/A  
  • Material / Process:  Lexan 121R PC, Cycolac MG37EPX ABS, Cycoloy XCY620S PC/ABS, Hushlloy HS210. Texin 288 LW TPU /Top Finish Panel:  Injection Molding, Painting and Laser Etching. Tambour Doors:  Injection Molding, Laser Cutting, Painting and Laser Etching.

Description: Lasers were key for part cutting and pattern etching on the tambour door and top finish panel of this center console.  This creates a continuous, holographic pattern on a discontinuous surface, giving the appearance of a single-piece door. Additionally, the dynamic pattern changes with viewing angle, hides smudges in high-touch areas, and is 30-50% less costly than films. Top finish panels are injection molded, then painted and laser etched, while tambour doors are injection molded, laser cut apart, painted, and then laser etched. The result is better fit and finish and a unique look.


Category and Grand Award winners selected from among these finalists during the Blue Ribbon judging by a group of journalists, academics, and retired industry chief engineers, will be announced at the Automotive Innovation Awards Gala on November 6, 2019 during the 49th-annual SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Gala at Burton Manor in the suburbs of Detroit. The event begins with a VIP Cocktail Reception at 4:00 pm., generously sponsored by Celanese. At 4:30 p.m. the main exhibit area will open for general admission and guests can review this year’s Automotive Innovation Awards part nominations.  Dinner will begin at 6:00 p.m. and the awards program itself will run from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. For those who wish to extend merrymaking and networking activities, the Afterglow will run from 9:00 – 11:00 p.m.

SPE’s Automotive Innovation Awards Program is the oldest and largest competition of its kind in the world. Dozens of teams made up of OEMs, tier suppliers, and polymer producers submit nominations describing their part, system, or complete vehicle and why it merits the claim as the Year’s Most Innovative Use of Plastics. This annual event typically draws over 800 OEM engineers, automotive and plastics industry executives, and media. As is customary, funds raised from this event are used to support SPE educational efforts and technical seminars, which help educate and secure the role of plastics in the advancement of the automobile.

The mission of SPE is to promote scientific and engineering knowledge relating to plastics worldwide and to educate industry, academia, and the public about these advances. SPE’s Automotive Division is active in educating, promoting, recognizing, and communicating technical accomplishments in all phases of plastics and plastic-based composite developments in the global transportation industry. Topic areas include applications, materials, processing, equipment, tooling, design, and development. 

For more information about the SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Competition and Gala see www.speautomotive.com. For more information on the Society of Plastics Engineers, see www.4spe.org.

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