In collaboration with EPTEC, a leading manufacturer of defence products, our team embarked on a project to revolutionise their painting process for large, complex components. The objective was clear: design a girder system that would enhance efficiency, reduce manual handling, and incorporate a mobile option for seamless movement between painting stages.

The Challenge

EPTEC’s existing painting process was fraught with inefficiencies. Large defense products, required extensive manual handling, leading to increased labor costs and safety risks. The lack of mobility in the painting setup further compounded these issues, as products had to be manually transported between different painting stations, causing delays and disrupting workflow.

The Solution

To address these challenges, our team designed a modular girder system that could be easily assembled and disassembled to accommodate various product sizes and shapes. Engineered for strength and stability, the girder was capable of supporting heavy loads while ensuring precision during the painting process. A key innovation was the integration of a rail-based mobile option, allowing the girder to move smoothly between painting booths. This design significantly reduced the need for manual handling and minimised downtime, streamlining the entire painting workflow.

Design Process

Our approach began with a comprehensive analysis of EPTEC’s current painting operations. Through site visits and interviews with key personnel, we gained valuable insights into the specific pain points of the process. Armed with this knowledge, we developed several conceptual designs, which were refined through iterative prototyping. Virtual simulations were employed to test the girder’s structural integrity and mobility under various conditions, ensuring that the final design met the highest standards of safety and performance.

Outcome

While the project did not proceed to implementation due to budget constraints and stakeholder readiness, the design was met with enthusiasm by the EPTEC team. The girder system stands as a testament to our ability to develop practical, innovative solutions for complex industrial challenges. The concepts and designs created during this project remain a valuable asset, poised for future implementation as EPTEC’s needs evolve.

Conclusion

The EPTEC girder design project highlights our expertise in industrial design and our dedication to solving real-world problems. By prioritising efficiency, safety, and adaptability, we crafted a solution that, though not yet realised, showcases our commitment to innovation within the constraints of industrial manufacturing. This project serves as a reminder that even when implementation is delayed, the power of thoughtful design endures.

Let’s Build Together

If you or your clients need expert engineering design and drafting support, we’re here to help. Our team is ready to provide the guidance and expertise you need to make your project a success. Contact us at info@kevos.com to explore how we can collaborate on your next venture!