Innovating the Mold Design Process for Faithful Reproduction of the Design

Abstract

We are taking on the challenge of evolving car bodies with meticulous attention to detail. Our goal is to ensure that people can feel the "joy of driving" while maximizing business efficiency. We aim to achieve the universal values of cars, such as "faithful reproduction of design," "unity of man and horse," and "collision safety and environmental performance," at the lowest cost and CO₂ emissions, even in the era of electrification. Among them, Mazda's design considers the momentary movement and beauty of living things as the ultimate form, expressing the sense of life through a continuous flow of surfaces. In order to faithfully reproduce this design, it is necessary to realize light reflection and continuous shading in a higher quality state. Additionally, it is essential to mass-produce a smooth, continuous flow of surfaces through press molding. To achieve this challenge, we have developed a new analysis method that allows us to evaluate the molding behavior and quality of panels on a desk, taking into account the deflection of the mold. In this paper, we will introduce this newly developed analysis method and the innovations in the mold design process using this method.