LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN OF SEAT CUSHION EXTENSION MODULES USING THE PROPERTIES OF PLASTIC AND HCA-SIMP

Design using lightweight materials is limited by their associated structural properties. Topology optimization design has been proposed to consider this problem at the conceptual design stage; however, current research into the nonlinear structural environment is insufficient. In this study we consider the structural problems caused by changing the materials used for the extension module of an automotive seat cushion; static and dynamic tests are proposed and applied, then we present a corresponding conceptual design method. Finally, we use the results of the static and dynamic tests to verify the validity of the results.