Evaluation of competition and virtual rear subframes by means of the data envelopment analysis

Car subframes are relevant for the architecture and highly integrated structural components in the chassis systems. They influence functional effect chains at the overall vehicle level (e.g. driving dynamics, crash, acoustics) and are characterized by a variety of interfaces (e.g. wheel guidance, powertrain, steering, body). The conflict of objectives between the increasing complexity of the development process and the overall modular strategy requires new methods and concepts to design the subframes in their different development stages. This paper presents a method to investigate both existing competition and virtual concept rear subframes with the help of the Data Envelopment Analysis, known from the production economic sector. For this purpose, existing competitive designs are analyzed, classified and assessed. In addition, a method is shown, how virtual subframe concept models can be created, simulated and rated with the Data Envelopment Analysis automatically in a fast and efficient manner. The example evaluations of both investigations serve as a basis for the future design of rear subframes in the concept and early development phase to solve the described conflict of objectives.