Robustness in Angular Rigidity of Automotive Side-Door Hinges

Influences of fifteen design parameters and loading conditions on angular deflections of side door hinges subjected to over open forces were explored. Finite element analyses were employed to do angular rigidity tests and design of experiments was used to characterize the contributions from individual factors. Accuracy of finite element analyses was validated by load-deflection curves from physical testing. Diagnostic checking was conducted to examine the effectiveness of design of experiments.