The Salt Spray Testing Chamber simulates complex and simple test conditions, such as spray, dryness, humidity and static. Generally, neutral salt spray testing is used. For steel parts by zinc plating with passivation or zinc dispersion coatings, white rust is unacceptable with testing. For e-coating parts after exposure for 240 hours, the spread of corrosion from the scribed line should not exceed 2mm.
The Free Play and Stiffness Test measures the seat assembly and components such as suspension and slide rail to ensure user comfort, safety and durability. Stiffness is measured when load is applied, and then free play is measured.
The Seat Multifunctional Durability Test rig assesses the lifecycle of seat assembly or various components, such as recliner, height riser, slide rail, back frame, etc.
The Jounce and Squirm machines are computer-controlled, fully digital, hydraulic servo systems designed to meet virtually all OEM requirements, including Jounce-only, Jounce Impact and Material Wear evaluations. In addition, the hip pan to be used is described in SAE J1454. The upholstered cushion to be tested is mounted on the Jounce and Squirm fixture and, using robots, virtually any ingress/egress path can be simulated.
The SAE Standard has been prepared to provide a universal three-dimensional manikin for use in defining vehicle seating accommodation. This represents the weight and contour of an adult male in the 10th, 50th & 95th percentiles. Constructed of reinforced plastic and metal, the SAE Standard consists of a separate back pan and seat pan mechanically hinged at the hip or ‘H” point, which simulates the actual pivot center of the human torso and thigh.
The Multi Axis Simulation Table (MAST) assesses the durability of seat assemblies in construction, agricultural and forklift truck equipment seats. The MAST is not only used to replicate the road data for seat vibration durability, but also to perform seat transmissibility.
We can measure how resistant a solid matter is to various kinds of permanent shape change when a force is applied.
We are testing polymers, rubbers and elastomers for both shore A and D to give you a quality control process and polymer fingerprint.
If you have ever asked yourself the following question(s), CVG can help you. “If we change coatings, will our product be as durable as it once was?” “Supplier ‘XYZ’ has a lower cost, does it perform as well?” At CVG we can assist in proper selection based on product performance of a particular coating via our Abrasion Testing.
We can reproduce the damage that can occur over months, or years, of outdoor exposure in just a few days. Accelerated testing saves you time and money, while our Xenon arc lamps give the best reproduction of full-spectrum sunlight.
CVG’s Wiper Test buck allows the R&D team to evaluate a wide range of wiper systems. The test buck is emulated from the bucks used at CVG’s primary wiper division in Michigan City, IN. The testing takes place utilizing a filtered water spray system in a sealed environment and can be watched in close proximity from behind its Plexiglas shell. Testing profiles can be changed to accommodate any customer requirements and can be done so in any of its three chambers simultaneously or individually. Sizes of test units can range from individually mounted systems to passenger cars to full bus fronts or semi clips.
The MB Dynamics Quiet Shaker provides vibration at extremely low background noise levels in order to measure and diagnose annoying buzz, squeak and rattle (BSR) issues in seats. The shaker can also provide human vibration evaluation according to ISO 7096.
As one of our tools to validate our product’s durability, CVG utilizes a multi-axis robot equipped with a load cell. A variety of linear, or multi-axis setups, can be used to cyclically validate performance of a variety of our products. This can range from emulating ingress/egress of a seat to linear actuation of a hinged cabinet to validate estimated life cycle. Other major multi-axis tests include Jounce & Squirm, Bump & Squirm, or we can program a test to meet customer-specific requirements. Our ability to customize, or test specifically, to a multitude of specifications allows us to validate performance quickly and cost-effectively. Immediate feedback is then available, allowing us to validate performance of a particular design.
The Environment Testing Chamber allows for performance, storage and use testing of a variety of electrical components, equipment, instrument, materials and coatings in different temperature and humidity conditions. Deflection, color change, red rust, load deflection and operating force are observed.
The Suspension Load Deflection rig assesses performance of each kind of suspension mechanism.
The Suspension Force Stroke Durability rig assesses durability of each kind of suspension mechanism.
This test uses sensors to quantify the pressure between two objects coming into contact. Pressure mapping has many widespread applications. In assistive technology it is commonly used by clinicians to determine the suitability of a wheelchair cushion and by researchers to investigate support surfaces, risk factors for ulceration and ulcer prevention protocols.
Pressure mapping systems can be made in many configurations for different uses; thin mats used by seating specialists are the most common clinical use. These mats are approximately 18” by 18” and composed of a matrix of small sensors and a cover that read pressure at individual locations on the thigh or buttock. This data is transferred to a computer for analysis. Evenly distributed pressure is preferred.
This vibration test focuses on the vertical direction with sinusoidal amplitude. After 200 hours of vibration, the specimen should exhibit no failure of the weld metal, base metal or excessive wear in any components.
Seat Belt Pull Strength Testing is a key safety regulation in all seat projects. The load as specification is applied to the parts/module. To assess the strength of the seat/component structure, the seat belt pull rig is used to validate the design and development.
Since it opened in 2008, the CVG Acoustics Lab has featured the latest technology to test commercial industry vehicles and vehicle components for sound, vibration and other noise issues—inside and outside the cab—that may affect vehicle and driver performance.
CVG is a leader in acoustical analysis with cutting-edge measurement tools, including a Brüel & Kjær (B&K) 70-channel PULSE analyzer system, featuring a 50 channel Spherical Beamforming System.
This system functions as an ‘acoustic camera,’ producing color images of noise and vibration entering a vehicle’s cab, allowing us to specifically pinpoint locations of buzz, squeaks and rattles (otherwise known as BSR) and noise leaks from door seals.
Our Acoustics Lab also features a binaural head and microphone headset that simultaneously captures the vehicle driver and passenger positions to produce realistic recordings during various operating conditions, including on highway speeds and shifting through the gears.
The sound recordings are then used for benchmarking, target setting and evaluating the effectiveness of innovative cab interior products, including floor mats, headliners and instrument panels.
Per ASTM D3574, “Standard Test Methods for Flexible Cellular Materials – Slab, Bonded, and Molded Urethane Foams,” CVG has you covered.
We can provide a quick and accurate method to determine the amount of color transferred from textile material, such as fabric, carpeting, yarn or leather, to other surfaces by rubbing.
We can condition various materials and parts for testing via controlled, temperature, humidity and time. We can also flame test various materials and parts conforming to FMVSS 302 – Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard.
To help save cost, decrease lead time and allow for quick change, CVG uses a 72” X 96” CNC router table to create tools, fixtures and prototypes. Our machine has 6.5” of vertical cutting capability, which allows us to fit a variety of materials on the work surface. Having the ability to rapidly machine hardwoods and high-density tooling board, we can create accurate prototype tools in a fraction of the time and cost compared to outsourcing. Machines like this allow CVG to respond to our customer needs, internal or external, with a reduced lead time and at a reduced cost.
At CVG we can solve polymer, elastomer, composite, metal, alloy and ceramic material issues for manufacturers, engineers and designers via chemical analysis, mechanical testing, weathering, environmental simulation and failure analysis. Data generated and interpreted in these test methods can help determine product lifespan, strength, durability and other performance goals. CVG’s materials engineering expertise can also prevent the costs and downtime associated with product or material failures.
