Abstract
In Automotive engineering field, metal gauges are used for fixing letters, labels and emblems on the car body, as well as for wind shield and rear glass alignment. These metal gauge design and manufacturing demands more time and leads to delays. These metal gauges causes dent and rough marks on the outer body panels. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate, design and develop 3D printed gauges to optimize the manufacturing lead time and eliminate surface defects. In order to evaluate, design and develop replacement for metal gauges, detail examination of existing gauge manufacturing is proposed. Once, detail information about metal gauges are discovered, investigation of 3D printer technology to manufacture them is planned. To do a rapid prototyping for assembly aid gauges following important analysis and study is proposed. • Investigate rapid prototyping and potential to manufacture assembly aid gauges • Design and develop a concept gauge using a 3-Dimensional math based model • Examine the panel profile and establish a relation between designed gauge and panel utilizing the computational analysis • Once computational analysis is performed, the model processed for 3D printing • Evaluate performance 3D printed gauges and improve design methodology • Implement improved process for designing and development for required assembly aid gauges