Joining automotive space frame structures by filament winding

In the future automotive market an increasing number of lightweight constructions like space frame structures in multi material design will be used. For this purpose, new lightweight suitable joining methods are needed. In the paper an innovative joining method is presented, which is based on the filament winding process. The article describes the developed winding process and the validation and characterization of the connected components. Further the paper describes the possibility to give the joint specific targeted properties like stiffness and strength which are dimensioned by the use of a simulation tool. There is also a production solution for automated winding of components by industrial robots presented.