FASTENERS & SEALING
Three different versions of the spring and spool mechanism were designed
SLIDE ON BY W
hen people list off electric vehicle (EV) components, they tend to focus on crucial
mechanical parts such as the battery, motor and electronic control units (ECUs). However, it can often be the less obvious components that make all the difference in how a customer perceives and experiences a vehicle. For instance, the user-friendliness of
a central console can be an important feature for many customers who value ease-of-use and smooth functionality in their day-to-day lives. One global EV manufacturer in particular recognised the need to provide a better experience for users and improve the quality of their existing central console. Requiring precise speed and timing for the opening and closing of the mechanism, it turned to industrial fastenings manufacturer and distributor, TR Fastenings, to provide a bespoke spring solution.
GAPS IN THE MARKET The EV manufacturer’s requirement was for a fastening solution that would provide an advanced sliding functionality to the console in its
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The spring and spool assembly translates linear motion into rotation
latest EV model. The solution needed to include a bespoke spring and spool mechanism with three different versions designed for installation in the console’s tray, cup holder and lid. Despite researching the market for
a solution to the client’s challenge, TR could not find a suitable spring and spool product for the sliding console. So, the company set about designing its own component. Creating the product in the time
frame available posed the most significant challenge. The open and closure mechanism would only be possible through using advanced fastening technology, requiring a
high level of technical expertise and collaboration. “Finding the right solution is my
passion, and working alongside our customer on this project was an incredible opportunity to bring that to life,” says Patrik Ringdahl, project engineer at TR.
PLUGGING THE GAP New EV components require extensive design and engineering expertise, all the way from design and prototyping through to full production. TR’s US and Swedish branches
collaborated closely with several global manufacturers to design and
Jake Holmes looks at how one small fastener assembly has made a big difference to the user-friendliness of electric vehicle components
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