Corporate Technologies: Targeted Technical Assistance Program

The Targeted Technical Assistance Program is designed to help companies:

• solve specific engineering and manufacturing problems;
• reduce scrap and waste associated with production processes;
• and improve product quality.

An initial assessment—conducted via the phone, web, or e-mail—will identify the company goals related to the identified problem; define the nature and scope of improvement project; and will guide the selection and preparation of the appropriate expert(s) who will be assigned to the project.

SAE International experts then conduct a five-day site visit to verify the specific dimensions of the problem, observe actual operations, and test possible improvement strategies. At the completion of the visit, SAE will provide the client company with a final report and project recommendations.

The following Targeted Technical Assistance Programs have recently been completed or are underway:

• Ningbo Fengmao Far-East Rubber Co., Ltd.: Synchronous Belt Project
  SAE International experts completed a project that outlined product quality and durability improvements for a line of timing belts produced by Fengmao Rubber.

• Qiaoshi Rubber & Plastics Co., Ltd.: Air Brake Diaphragm Project
  On-site evaluation of product and production methods by an SAE International expert were conducted to advise Qiaoshi of design and manufacturing alternatives that would increase product quality and durability.

• Minth Group Research & Development Center: Beltline Molding Project
  Several SAE International experts recently spent five days in this R&D center optimizing its production methods for the beltline molding prototype. This co-extruded automotive trim piece must pass stringent OE appearance standards prior to approval for production.

• Nanjing Auto Group: Testing Center Project
  Nanjing Auto Group requested a review by SAE International to determine the steps required to improve test center capabilities and to establish the group as an independent, third-party testing center.