Approaches for automated wiring harness manufacturing: function integration with additive manufacturing

Abstract With the electrification of powertrains and progressive implementation assisted automated driving functions, vehicle wiring harness is becoming increasingly important in automotive industry. The design gaining considerable variation more complex. In order to master this complexity manufacturing processes a reliable manner, new approaches are required for automation production. Additive have not yet been used production harnesses. development additive processing conductive materials therefore creates basis solutions produce approach function-integrated multi-material application, possibility using electrically polymers specified detail. A fundamental study was carried out determine values electrical conductivity that can be achieved field plastics. Based on these findings, research question being addressed whether made an extent suitable use vehicle’s harness. components from conventional systems serve as reference. specially developed test set-up measuring provided measured values. quantitative evaluation measurements clearly shows material only possible limited extent. major benefit identified automatable connections.