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Cougartron

Efficient & Scalable Hardware Redesign with Optimised Liquid Logistics

Client
Cougartron
Year
2024
Role
Lead Designer / Engineer
Project type
  • Hardware Optimisation
  • Manufacturing Improvement
  • User-Centred Design
  • Liquid Logistics
Clear liquid manifold, brass fittings and bolts, rendered on an orange background
  • 70%lower overall manufacturing cost
  • 0handed parts – symmetrical components do double duty
  • StandardPTFE rod in place of large custom blanks

Overview

The project aimed to enhance an existing product by reducing complexity, streamlining the manufacturing process, and incorporating new features based on product testing and customer feedback.

Problem

  • High component count

    The original design contained too many components, making manufacturing complex and costly.

  • Material waste

    The reliance on large, custom blanks led to significant material waste and increased expenses.

  • Customer feedback

    Users highlighted the need for improved performance and additional features to enhance usability.

Exploded view – scroll to take the applicator apart

Process

A full analysis of the existing design was conducted, with a focus on identifying inefficiencies. One of the critical areas of improvement was the liquid logistics management system, which was redesigned for better functionality and aesthetics.

The new design incorporated symmetrical components, allowing individual parts to serve multiple functions. This streamlined both manufacturing and inventory management by eliminating the need for handed components.

A material optimisation strategy was implemented, shifting from large, custom blanks to standard PTFE rods, significantly reducing costs and material waste.

Explore in 3D

3D model of the applicator: black bars and clamp, clear acrylic manifold, brass fittings and steel fasteners

Drag to rotate the part · switch to Exploded to see inside

Solution

The redesign delivered several key benefits:

  • Cost savings

    By transitioning to standard PTFE rods instead of custom blanks, material costs were significantly reduced, cutting overall manufacturing expenses by 70%.

  • Simplified production

    Fewer components and a symmetrical design streamlined assembly and inventory management.

  • Enhanced user experience

    The optimised liquid logistics system improved both functionality and visual appeal, addressing customer feedback.

This project successfully transformed an existing design into a more efficient, scalable and cost-effective product while improving the end-user experience.


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