The evolution of a car has transformed dramatically since the first automobile was developed centuries ago. The auto body from cars of yesteryear did not have much in the way of a second chance. If the unthinkable happened causing damage, mechanics in auto body shops may have been able to do a patch up job but nothing that could be compared with repairs possible today as a result of the high tech equipment used on a daily basis.
Paint
Spotting a good paint job is something most people can do. Previously, getting paint work repaired was a nightmare. You would go into a repair shop and spend time with the mechanic arguing over which color was the closest to that of the car, knowing that if someone takes any notice of your vehicle the patchy paint job will be revealed.
Fast forward to 2014 and technology is able to find out the exact paint color code of your current coat of paint which then allows the mechanics to replicate the exact same color to ensure that the auto body looks like new.
Technology has also reduced the carbon footprint effect painting the auto body has. Lead was a key ingredient in paints which is not good for health of both humans and the environment. The new water based paint has improved this situation immensely ensuring auto body shops are playing their part in saving the environment.
Computers
Mechanics have always been known to have a good eye and while this has not changed they are now assisted by technology. Technology is able to get the measurements 100% precise, every single time. While there was initially some resistance to embrace the technology all auto body shops have now realized computers are the way forward and if not used the shop may as well throw in the white towel now.
Welding
Every auto body shot mechanic from Calgary to Timbuktu is familiar with welding. The materials used to weld parts in place is pretty important stuff, a weak point in welding can be dangerous. As researchers have looked into spot welds, the sheets used for the welds are now lighter and stronger than those 10 years ago. Researchers look in particular for the best balance to maximize cross-tension strength versus tensile strength to provide the best options. Another result’s of using lighter materials in the welding process is the environmental benefits.
Small Dent Repairs
Paintless dent repairs are tackled in auto body shops daily. This is one area in the high tech body shops that has not been completely revolutionized by technology. Initially elbow grease was all that was required with a bit of know how. Fast forward today, the job is still manual however a few specialist tools are used to get the best results.
Innovation is happening at an incredible rate. People are learning how to use it in new ways everyday. Some of these innovations have revolutionized the way the auto body shops operate. With robots and machines continually advancing, could we see the day of mechanics being eliminated from auto body repair.
