Page 41 - MetalForming February 2022 Special Automotive Issue

community that embrace innovation and make significant contributions to the advancement of steel in the auto- motive market. Award winners are cho- sen from presenters at the previous year’s GDIS seminar, with candidates rated in several categories, including challenges and benefits associated with cost, mass reduction and performance; overall contribution to the advance- ment of steel; and implementation in production.
During the virtual 2021 GDIS event, Ford Motor Co. earned the Automotive Excellence Award for its innovative use of AHSS in the 2020 Ford Escape and Kuga. Michael Kozak, global body structure manager at Ford, received the award for his GDIS 2019 presenta- tion, The All New 2020 Ford Escape and Kuga. The presentation detailed how Ford leveraged an efficient, scal- able platform to deliver a global name- plate optimized for each market’s needs. The application of AHSS and UHSS allowed for optimal strength-to- weight that delivers National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 5-Star safety ratings with an exciting driving dynamic, according to Kozak. Opti- mized engineering sections and joints maximized occupant space for improved accommodation and usage, ensuring comfort for passengers and their gear. Regional tailoring of critical structural members avoided any scar mass or cost not necessary for unique market requirements.
Free, But Sells Out Quickly
GDIS debuted in 2002 with 545 reg- istrants, and since then has grown in attendance and scope. The last live event, in 2019, boasted more than 1500 attendees. In 2021, a virtual GDIS, fol- lowing the COVID-related cancellation in 2020, attracted more than 1200 reg- istrants. Hugely popular, GDIS is a no- cost, first-come, first-served event, so be sure to visit the GDIS site, www.greatdesignsinsteel.com, for reg- istration details. MF
Attend to network and learn about new, emerging, evolving
and maturing technology
in stamp, lubrication and die design.
“Sometimes you need to go to the information and this conference definitely has it!”
- Michael N, past attendee
“Laurie Harbour’s presentation was terrific! Worth the trip to see the data.”
- David V, past attendee
To register and view all event details, go to pma.org/stamping-conference
March 29-30, 2022
Hyatt Regency | Cincinnati, OH
SPONSORS/PREMIUM EXHIBITORS
Environmentally Friendly Lubrication
6363 Oak Tree Blvd. Independence, OH 44131-2500 | 216-901-8800 pma.org/stamping-conference | metalformingmagazine.com
www.metalformingmagazine.com
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