Modern container development has to be fast, meet the requirements for transport, handling and production, and all this as cost-efficiently as possible. However, “fast” alone is often not enough: development phases that have already been greatly reduced are often shortened even further.
Our client presented us with this exact challenge: 12 weeks of development time became six. Since the services to be provided were not reduced from the regular development scope, other solutions had to be found. The processes were critically examined again, digital solutions were elicited and thus a time-saving dovetailing of classic development steps with modern construction and acceptance functions was combined.
After the definition of the premises, different 3D concept variants were developed for our client. These were presented in the concept meetings and, if necessary, comments from the stakeholders were simultaneously adapted in the event. In this way, unnecessary concept loops could be avoided and the design approval from milestone 1 (MS1) could be achieved directly during the appointment.
When MS1 of the container development was reached, the design with all details of the future load carrier in 3D and 2D was started. If required, the detailed design was physically transferred from steel into a prototype and presented on site. The acceptance meeting with all stakeholders was supported by a mobile app. In this way, all issues were documented digitally and then distributed directly to the group of participants. A constructive and physical adaptation could be implemented directly and thus the achievement of milestone 2 (MS2) could be ensured.
To save the construction time of the physical prototype, acceptance tests were also carried out in the “Cave”. In the so-called “cave”, the container can be virtually represented in actual size and ergonomics as well as handling projects can be simulated.
The advantage: due to the realistic representation, deficiencies are immediately apparent and can be directly adjusted or remedied.
Another advantage is that this does not have to be done in person; the use of VR glasses at the customer’s premises is sufficient. This makes the inspection and acceptance process extremely flexible and streamlined, not only in terms of location but also in terms of time.
Despite the shortened project period, a container developed according to the customer’s specifications was ready for series production and fulfilment of milestone 2 (MS2). Nothing stood in the way of a rapid series procurement with delivery and series approval at the location of inclusion in the container cycle.
As a full service supplier, ACONEXT is also available as a contact partner after delivery. In this way, container life records can be created for maintenance and servicing, the customer’s container database can be maintained and supplemented and optimisation measures can also be planned elsewhere.
Multiple derivation of the 3D data to 2D design drawings for adjustment loops at the container manufacturer, as well as physical correction and re-presentation, is no longer necessary. Milestone 2 (MS2) is reached directly and series procurement of the containers can be initiated.
