Weight reduction technology by laser irradiation for body panels

Abstract In order to reduce the weight of automobile body panels, we developed a new technology using laser. Reinforcements are attached to structural parts to ensure safety in collisions. We tried to take off the reinforcement from the front side member, and examined the laser quench method. Using the partial strength from structural hardening with laser quench, energy absorption of laser quench assembly (this assembly has no reinforcement) was almost the same as of a standard assembly with reinforcement. Thus it became possible to combine weight reduction with safety in collision.