Network structure for the integration of a supplier into the development process-the example of MB-CLK convertible

摘要

With the new CLK convertible Daimler-Benz AG and the Wilhelm Karmann GmbH pursued a new path of the co-operation. Co-ordinated by the customer, Karmann has developed a convertible version based on the CLK Coupe. Karrnann's ManufacturingEngineering supplied the stamping tools and the assembly jigs and fixtures. Vehicle manufacturing supplies production planning right up to the body-in-white manufacture and assembly. The limited development period, the stringent cost frame and the highquality requirements could only be carried out successfully through a closely connected network structure between the two companies. From a technical point of view the consequent utilisation of the simulation technique in the body and the soft top areacontributed to keep the planned target. Consequently we succeeded in reaching a 4 star NCAP classification for the vehicle. In the co-operation with Daimler-Benz the interfaces and performance agreement were already defined beforehand, which lead us to aclear internal and external customer/supplier structure in keeping of the quality requirements. Karmann, using this technique has proven its ability to turn key solutions also with its customer Daimler-Benz.After a brief description of the product, the project parameters and the definition of Karmann's role as supplier, the presentation will cover the development of management and communication structures in product development and production.The function of these structures in the area design can best be demonstrated by the role of simulations in body-in-white and the top stack of the CLK convertible. On the side of the production these network structures can be represented at the examples of c/u-parts management, problem- and measure pursuance as well as handing over of vehicles.