Car Production

  My curiosity in how math is used in real life leads me to explore a variety of topics.  I'm still working on a couple more in regard to art but I'm pausing to look at the math involved in car production. We know if car companies make mistakes you end up with the Ford Edsel, a car known as one of the worst vehicles in history. Others include the Ford Pinto or the AMC Pacer. 

So how do car companies go about deciding on new cars to market.  One of the first things done is to create a market analysis by analyzing data to determine what sells, where it sales, and the price it sells at.  In addition, they look at the horsepower needed, weight, fuel economy, and size before sending their detailed ideas to engineering.  This mathematically based information that dictates the finished product.

In engineering, they use computer aided modeling to build the chassis inside the computer before virtually crash testing it again and again using calculus and physics based algorithms.  Furthermore, they use geometry and trigonometry are used to design the suspension and anywhere there is a load bearing component fastened to another.

As for the exterior design, they use fluid flow programs to check on wind flow under, over, and around the vehicle.  This particular computer program allows the engineers to fine tune the aerodynamics of the car design.  Geometry and trig is used when designing the interior of the car.  Its used to help make the interior appealing to the perspective buyer and the correct placement of pillars, dashboard, dials, steering wheel, radio, etc.

Once everything is set, its time to build the cars.  In the old days, men did everything but now many cars are build by robots who are controlled by computer calculations so everything is accurate to the nano-meter so everything fits precisely.  

Once the car is built, the math is not done.  A certain number of cars are crash tested while others are taken out and road tested.  Those that are road tested have precise measurements taken of its ride, handling, emissions, etc.  These measurements are analyzed mathematically in addition to figuring out delivery schedules, delivery costs, and is sent to the dealership.

Math is used from start to finish and even beyond.  When you take your car in to be fixed, you are often charged for parts and a per hour cost for labor.  The car and its production has come a long way from the Model T build by Henry Ford.

Let me know what you think.  I'd love to hear.