Virtual testing of coated parts A simulation tool was developed allowing virtual testing of coated parts used in the automotive and transport industry. Digital Economy © Shutterstock Flocking fibres traditionally used to coat steel parts have been known to emit hazardous dispersions into the air. In addition to this, they possess the disadvantages of being costly while at the same time being limited in terms of freedom of design. The FFLIC project cooperated with an Italian company involved in creative engineering and advanced design in the automotive and transportation fields to produce a virtual reality technology. A simulation tool was used to virtually test products such as an innovative fur-like coating developed during the project. This was managed without the need for creating physical 3D prototypes. The simulation and testing was maintained throughout each phase of the product's development. Through the use of a virtual prototype, errors or ergonomic problems can be detected before they end up on the actual finished product. The objective was to arrive at a safer, better quality final product while reducing costs.
