| Description |
|
Secure and Reconfigurable Cargo Area Covers |
| OEM, Model, Model Year |
|
General Motors, Avalanche, 2002 |
| System Supplier, Contact, Phone |
|
Durakon Industries, John Montagna, (810)664-0850 |
| Molder/Processor |
|
Durakon Industries |
| Toolmaker, Contact and Phone |
|
Parker Tool, D. Krupp, (616)791-1080 |
| Material Supplier, Contact and Phone |
|
A. Schulman, Pat Kelly, (248)643-6100 |
| Generic resin type |
|
TPO |
| Resin Trade Name |
|
Polytrope |
| OEM Engineer, Title and Phone |
|
Anthony Posawatz, Asst. Vehicle Line Executive (VLE), (248)753-9995 |
| Nominated by, Company |
|
John Montagna, DURAKON INDUSTRIES, AEP DIVISION |
| Address |
|
2101 N. LAPEER ROAD, LAPEER, MI 48446 |
| Phone |
|
(810)664-0850 |
| Fax |
|
(810)667-7720 |
| Email |
|
montagna@tir.com |
| Summary | | A light weight, load carrying high performance Cargo Management System Tonneau made by integrating innovative manufacturing methodology and materials. The advantages of thermoplastics, thermosets, and honeycomb aluminum are utilized. Weight Savings: 30% Cost Savings: 10-20% Cost Avoidance: N/A |
| Most Innovative Feature | | Manufacturing methodology which integrates with a new material system. |
| Other Innovative Features | | Light, load bearing, and reconfigurable Cargo Covers or Tonneau for Crossover Vehicles and Pickup trucks. |
| Forming Process | | Twin sheet thermoforming and foam injection |
| First time process used? | | Yes |
| Previous Process Used | | SMC, Fiberglass spray up, and others |
| Tooling Innovations | | Unique Dual-mold pinch methods that produce strong welds and attractive OEM quality seams; Part graining methodology. |
| New Material Developments | | Thermoformable and scuff resistant TPO, light structured reinforcements, and application specific foam formulations. |
| Weight Savings | | Approximately 30% |
| Direct Cost Savings | | 10-20% |
| Direct Consumer Benefit | | The product is light and easily re-configured or removed from the vehicle. Reduces vehicle drag and improved fuel economy. |
| Translates to other Vehicles? | | Yes |
| Safety Benefits | | Provides exhaust and water secure barrier to passenger/storage compartment. |
| Environmental Benefits | | Improves fuel utilization and reduces emissions via reduced drag. |