Management of Automotive Design and Development Report

Problem definition

The paper is aimed at finding the most optimal design for a seat belt used in vehicles. This component is essential for preserving the safety of drivers and passengers. Statistical findings indicate that active use of seat belts contributes to the reduction of fatal incidents or injuries among drivers (Cohen & Einav, 25). Nonetheless, a great number of people either forget or refuse to use it. In some cases, it can be explained by the fact that the customers do not feel very comfortable while using them (Dorn, 127). Hence, it is necessary to develop a new conceptual design that would best suit the customers’ needs and correspond to the existing safety requirements.

Scope and methodology

The main purpose of this study is to apply the models, developed by Genichi Taguchi. They have long been adopted by engineers, designers and industry practitioners. He stressed the benefits of using statistical methods in order to eliminate production problems. At first, it will be necessary to determine the factors which affect a user’s attitude toward the use of a seat belt. The collected information will be analyzed with the help of ANNOVA (Analysis of Variance). Furthermore, it is vital to single out those factors which affect the safety of drivers and passengers. On the basis of these findings, we will be able to determine what kind of aspects in the design of seat belts need improvement. The next stage will be to develop a new conceptual design for this component and set manufacturing parameters. The use of Taguchi methods will help us find the balance between those parameters which are essential for customer satisfaction and safety. These are the main steps that have to be taken.

Works Cited

Cohen Alma & Einav L. The Effects of Mandatory Seat Belt Laws on Driving and Traffic Fatalities. Harvard Law School. 2001.

Dorn L. Driver Behaviour and Training. London: Ashgate Publishing. 2010 Print.

Roy R. Design of experiments using the Taguchi approach: 16 steps to product and process improvement. NY: Wiley-IEEE. 2001. Print.