Function Development

Functional development of "vehicle safety" means alignment of the reciprocal effect of all relevant components and systems on the whole vehicle. The analysis, alignment and optimization of components and system functions takes place by applying and analyzing simulations and trials.

The component families of the seatbelt, airbag, steering wheel and the rollover protection system are optimized from the conception phase through to the start of batch production with respect to function, costs and scheduling at module level. Management of the component suppliers takes place in coordination with the function developers and other specialist departments.

We integrate all belt systems in the whole vehicle (specification of all belt anchoring and deflection points and the seatbelt reaction under consideration of the legal requirements and comfort requirements) as well as window bags in the installation area (opening reaction of nearby components as well as filling and positioning reaction of the airbag in the required temperature range).

"Integral Safety" describes the coordinated reciprocal effect of active (preventing accidents) and passive (reducing the consequences of an accident) safety systems. For example, safety systems with active sensor data such as distance control or braking assistants are used to prepare systems for passive safety or activate them earlier. The "Vehicle Safety" department is in charge of cross-departmental coordination.

For the full vehicle properties of NVH acoustics, vibration and driving comfort, our areas of application cover the full range of sub-attributes such as structure dynamics, lightweight construction, cabriolet development, powertrain NVH, sound engineering, chassis NVH and chassis comfort alignment, aero-acoustics, insulation/damping, interior acoustics, seat comfort and prevention of disturbing noises.
We can look back on years of experience in the linked process chain of product definition, brand engineering, concept development, virtual function design, engineering, trials and final approval.

Our areas of application cover the full range of operational strength in the whole vehicle and assemblies such as the chassis, structure, interior, attachment parts, accessories from the point of view of virtual design, test station trials and road endurance tests on test grounds and public roads around the world.
We have special expertise in the area of cabriolet development and light assembly structures that has developed according to our own vehicle usage and specific market safeguard processes.

Our areas of application cover the full range of aerodynamic attributes of the whole vehicle for derivatives with respect to the structure, chassis, attachment parts, accessories from the point of view of virtual design and test station trials in the wind tunnel, on test ground and on public roads throughout the world.
We have special areas of expertise in aero-acoustics for cabriolets with a soft roof and RHT roof systems, engine flow, thermal management, under-chassis dynamics, brake cooling and soiling optimization in the vehicle.

Development of a full vehicle attributes:

• Performance & economic efficiency
• Vehicle dynamics/active control systems

Integration of drive systems:

• Units & drive trains
• Engine mounting
• Air intake system
• Exhaust system
• Fuel system
• Drive/driver interfaces

Integration of chassis systems

• Axle carrier
• Wheel suspension
• Suspension and damping
• Steering
• Braking systems
• Brake control systems
• Tires/wheels
• Active chassis systems