HP 3D Printing Solution Used for Parts in Subaru Concept Car

HP Japan Inc. announces that the HP Jet Fusion 3D printing solution has been adopted for the manufacturing of parts for Subaru Corp.'s concept car Subaru Legacy Outback Boostgear Package. The parts were jointly developed and manufactured by Subaru and DMM.com LLC's 3D printing division DMM.make 3D Print.

In developing new parts for the concept car Subaru Legacy Outback Boostgear Package, Subaru aimed to solve manufacturing challenges. Challenges in automotive parts development range from mold manufacturing to logistical burdens. The name Boostgear for the concept car represents a “boost” to help customers go places they couldn't go before and do things they couldn't do before. Through the design of decorative parts, it proposes new ways of interacting with cars. Since the newly created parts were intended for future implementation, HP Jet Fusion 3D printing solution, incorporating HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology, was adopted as the manufacturing method to balance the strength and mass production capabilities.

By utilizing HP Jet Fusion 3D printing solution, the need for molds was eliminated, allowing for the development of parts with unique shapes within a limited timeframe. HP 3D High Reusability PA 12 (Nylon 12) was used as the material, meeting desired properties in terms of heat and weather resistance, as well as sufficient strength. Additionally, the HP Jet Fusion 3D printer features an environmentally friendly manufacturing method. This method allows parts to be produced anywhere by sending 3D data.

“We automotive designers have always been constrained by molds, struggling with issues like part separation,” says Kanenori Susaki, Manager, Accessories Planning Department, Parts & Accessories Division, of Subaru. “However, by using 3D printing, we are freed from all issues such as the angle of mold removal and the appearance of parting lines, significantly enhancing design freedom. We aim to actively adopt 3D printing, which is suitable for low-volume, high-mix production, to provide customers with more enjoyment.

“This time, we were responsible for shaping automotive parts for exhibition at Tokyo Auto Salon Since the time from prototype to completion was extremely limited, we adopted HP's Multi Jet Fusion technology, known for its high precision, quality, and fast shaping speed,” says Yu Inoue, Sales Manager, 3D Print Division, Entertainment & EC Division, DMM.com. “We hope to continue expanding various use cases with the help of HP.”

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.

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