A3 Engineering - PROJECT 31
The primary goal of this R&D project was to investigate, develop, and validate clinching techniques as a viable and efficient alternative to traditional welding methods. I developed destructive testing methods to assess the integrity and reliability of clinched joints, including shear tests, pull tests, and qualitative observations from air chisel tests. In addition, I created multiple prototypes to assess the joint's reliability with other components added onto the base.
I was fortunate enough to personally present this A3 to the CEO of the Martinrea International, which gave me an extremely valuable learning experience. This A3 highlights the main aspects of this project.
This project was an extremely rewarding experience. Though at times there were multiple challenges (shipping, process challenges, clients), I learned that the best way to move forward is to have multiple backup plans, think multiple steps ahead, and communicate clearly with those you are working with.
Update (01/09/2024)
Video of the finalized implemented clinching process (on the left).
I conducted a root cause analysis and found that a robot cell had unused area in the fixture, resulting in a wastage of resources and space. I took this opportunity to double the JPH by implementing a system that welded two parts simultaneously, with buried cycle time.
I began with a sub cell analysis, research and brainstorming, redesigned the layout of the subcell and fixture to incorporate a new gun, nut feeder, and electrodes, developed plate fixtures to accommodate for the new parts, and created drawings for custom parts. This approach of maximizing space and resources allowed us to double subcell production per shift, repurpose unused equipment- meaning minimal investment, all while achieving an annual cost savings of $65,000 in labor expenditures.
This project required an innovative approach, as there were many physical obstacles that limited the redesign. I learned how to avoid design obstacles by analyzing the best solutions and thinking multiple steps ahead.