Mississauga, Canada - Automotive seat frames made of foam are a good route to lowering vehicle weight, according to Woodbridge Group in Canada, which has developed StructureLite seat frames made of polyurethane or expanded polypropylene (EPP), with low mass and several value-added features.
Now the North American subsidiary of engineered plastic foam supplier JSP has licensed Woodbridge's patented StructureLite technology and associated know-how, and will use it to produce expanded EPP seat frames in North America.
According to Canadian foam producer Woodbridge, JSP is a leading supplier of EPP -- sold as ARPRO - for use in automotive, packaging and consumer goods markets and has manufacturing, research and development facilities in the major industrial centres of North America, Europe and Asia
Woodbridge also notes that its StructureLite seat frames have gained wide marketplace acceptance. "Virtually every OEM is currently utilising the benefits of this technology," a 16 March Woodbridge statement said.
Woodbridge said it continues to offer StructureLite seat frames in both PU foam and EPP for seat cushions, seat backs and seat bolsters. The company describes the technology as "revolutionary," offering up to 35 percent lower weight for a seat system and giving cost savings through replacing traditional, complex and heavy steel stampings and wires frames.
Woodbridge's StructureLite products can integrate anti-submarine and energy management functions for better occupant safety, said the group, adding that the products can improve acoustical performance, reduce tooling costs and decrease development lead time.
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