“ We have a framework set up for the design of commuter and shuttle bus seating ,” said Christine McDonald , international sales manager for Kiel Americas . “ But the appeal of Kiel Americas is that we can move certain things around and make special accommodations upon request . We provide the framework , but our customers provide their input on the design .” At the start of the development process , Kiel undertakes intensive design and ergonomic studies , first creating the new seating design on a virtual level . Using state-of-the-art software , Kiel creates an animated image of the product in a realistic environment even at this early stage . This “ digital mock-up ” is an essential element of the entire development process .
“ After the production of a volume or surface model in the CAD program , we carry out a so-called Finite Element Method ( FEM ) analysis , which provides precise information about a component ’ s stability before it is constructed , as well as information about potential weaknesses , if applicable ,” Gwynne said . “ This step also plays an important role in the optimization of the weight of the respective component .” The goal is to reduce weight as much as possible , without compromising the quality / safety , using modern materials such as lightweight steel or specialized plastic structures . In the final stage , the seat must prove itself as a model or prototype in various stress , fire protection , and crash tests , as well
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