Conceptual design of microcellular plastics bumper parts using axiomatic approach

Society is increasingly demanding automobiles centered on environmental factors and fuel efficiency. Accordingly many studies have examined the use of Al, Mg and composites for lightweight automobiles. We implemented a microcellular plastic (MCP) designed for a lightweight automobile using axiomatic design. The results show that the physical properties of MCPs are most affected by the size and uniformity of the MCPs, and that a weight reduction of about 15% is possible by applying MCPs to bumper covers. In conclusion, the MCP bumper design was proved to be a decoupled design, demonstrating the applicability of MCPs to bumpers.