Development, construction and design of exterior accessories for Volvo 3P

Abstract: This rapport describes the methodology, realization and results of a master thesis in industrial design engineering. The thesis covers a project in design and development of accessories for Volvo 3P. Volvo 3P is a company within the Volvo Group that delivers technology, service and economics to the Volvo Group’s truck companies.

At the launch of the project, the nature of accessories to be developed was yet undecided. The project therefore started with a pre study benchmarking competitors as well as a field study of a truck driver’s work day. Through these observations along with truck driver interviews, a list of problems could be compiled. These problems were then solved through concept studies with concepts generated through both group and individual creativity methods. In total 13 concepts were finally visualized and evaluated. Of these, two were chosen for further development.

The two final concepts were further refined tough a number of revisions. These revisions were done through sketching, the making of models, evaluation together with project tutors and Catia V5 CAD modeling. The project’s end result is two accessory concepts designed to improve the everyday life of the truck driver. Several prototypes were manufactured in a SLS machine, evaluated and improved. The final two accessories were manufactured in thermoplastic by vacuum forming and injection molding.