EDAG WINS MATERIALICA 2015 "BEST OF" AWARD

The "EDAG Light Cocoon" – the statement for the ultimate in future lightweight design.  With its visionary lightweight vehicle concept and (3D printing) additively manufactured vehicle structural parts, the Wiesbaden-based engineering service provider EDAG has demonstrated how it will be possible for automobile production to be simplified, resources saved, and the weight of the vehicle considerably reduced in the future. For, like an organic skeleton structure, the vehicle concept favours an approach in which material is only actually used in areas where it is absolutely necessary for safety and stability. The Light Cocoon features a branch-like structure which, despite its filigree appearance is nevertheless stable. For the unusual, lightweight outer body skin, the EDAG development specialists decided to use a tried and tested Jack Wolfskin fabric that is weatherproof, stretchable, and fits the vehicle to perfection. In addition, the unusual combination of a skeleton structure and fabric also makes it possible to integrate an new type of lighting concept. An LED backlighting system not only makes the structure of the Cocoon visible; in fact it trans-forms the vehicle into a screen. The look is no longer static; the customer can change the appearance of his car at any time, and select the colour of his choice.

Not until the advent of additive manufacturing (3D printing) did it become possible for such complex structures to be implemented. At the IAA 2015, the Wiesbaden-based design engineering company presented examples of technology which show that the combination of bionic design and additive manufacturing is not just pure Utopia, and could soon become reality.

The EDAG Light Cocoon provides stimulus for the future of energy-efficient lightweight design and resource-saving production.

From 20th to 22nd October, 2015, EDAG was in Munich, attending the 7th eCarTec, the leading international trade fair for electric and hybrid mobility. The MATERIALICA Awards jury spotted the enormous potential of the EDAG concept car, which is com-patible with these ideas. The concept offers great opportunities along the automobile supply chain, not only from the vehicle manufacturers' point of the view, but also for Germany as a centre of technology.