Customer: Automotive supplier
Industry/application area: AUTOMOTIVE, fixture construction
Technology: innovatiQ TiQ 8 - industrial 3D printer
Material: PA-CF (carbon fiber reinforced polyamide)

Challenge
An automotive supplier manufactures complex housings for drive elements. During the assembly process, several components have to be fixed in a very precise position before they are screwed or glued together. The housings have an irregular shape, which makes the use of standard clamping fixtures impossible. The production of metal fixtures is very expensive and the time required for design and CNC machining would delay the market launch of new products.

The supplier develops a custom-fit assembly fixture, also known as a jig, for each housing model. This jig is FDM printed from black PACF. The jig has cut-outs that exactly replicate the contours of the housing and hold it securely and damage-free in the desired position.

• Accurate fit: Each jig is perfectly matched to the specific geometry of the part to be assembled.
• Fast customization: New jigs can be designed and printed quickly if the product design changes.
• Protection of the component: The 3D-printed material is less hard than metal, preventing scratches or deformations on the sensitive housings.
• Function integration: Fastening points, guides and markings can be integrated directly into the device.
  
  

Conclusion
Cost-effectiveness: Significant reduction in costs and production time compared to traditionally manufactured devices.

Print example: Individual assembly fixture

Printer: innovatiQ TiQ 8

Material: PA-CF