Development of a tool for Monitoring Automotive Interior Quality: MAIQ

The research aimed to develop a tool for evaluating automotive interior quality. The project was commenced through an identified need from the automotive industry for tools to ensure consistency in interior quality during the development of the interiors. Although several of the methods and tools reviewed are well established and used during certain parts of the development of vehicles, the literature identified a gap in methods for monitoring quality throughout the development process of car interiors and methods for ensuring initial product intent is followed through. The research topic was divided into three key areas for investigations, namely: quality methods and tools, design processes, and automotive industry trends. These areas were investigated by reviewing the literature and conducting semi-structured face to face interviews with professionals at four major car manufacturers, and one major tier one supplier. Close collaboration with industrialists enabled the research to focus on specific needs and requirements of potential users of the tool. [Continues.]