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process
Multi-faceted Formed Aluminum
Screen Printed Aluminum
application
Cobra Radar Detectors
challenge
• Use aluminum trim to differentiate product
• Withstand extreme temperature variations
solution
The multi-faceted geometry of this aluminum trim adds to the eye-catching appeal of both parts. The designer worked closely with Northern Engraving early in the project visiting our Design Studio and Engineering Group to discuss the project and better understand options in integrating product branding into metal trim. Trends in finishes were explored with the final design taking advantage of a custom finish. Careful attention was paid to maximizing impact while minimizing costs. The trim illustrates effectively how early discussion between supplier and customer results in a design that takes full advantage of options in decorating metal. The small geometric pattern subtly evolves as it shifts front to back.
A combination of inks and protective topcoats allows the decorative trim to withstand extreme temperatures.
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“The development of the aluminum badges to fit onto a contoured, plastic surface and have them permanently stay affixed under extreme temperature range proved extremely difficult but, the NE team pulled through.”
Tony Kainuma
Cobra Electronics
“The design challenge was to come up with decorative variations that helped identify various price skus without having to retool parts. The ability to reach various finishes that makes the product look modern and clean to very deluxe on a single piece of aluminum that had many complex surfaces was impressive. The talent and experience of the design and engineering staff was the reason we were able to come up with the solution. Their knowledge of trends from other industries brought a fresh approach to this solution. The other element that truly helped bring this to fruition was the great presentation of Northern engravings endless capabilities from the sales team. Often times great ideas do not make it without the proper people helping with painting the picture. The sales team was crucial in implementing confidence and excitement into my client.”
Gilberto Cavada
Senior Designer
Product Development Technologies, Inc.
Flexibility / Professionalism
Northern Engraving has been Volvo PV's main supplier of aluminum decoration for 14 years. There are many different reasons why we in Volvo choose Northern Engraving as our supplier, but to mention just a few: Northern Engraving offers maximum flexibility coupled with professionalism in all area's with a strong focus in Engineering & Design.
Engineering
We know that we can always reach Northern Engraving with very short notice to arrange a meeting on any given program to assess if we should continue or change direction. This means that we at Volvo can save valuable time. A perfect example of this was the introduction of the P2004 Roller door where Volvo required the final product withstand a force of 70Kg. We asked Northern Engraving if this would be possible. Within a very short time span the Chief Engineer at Northern Engraving had designed a prototype that fulfilled the requirement. It would not have been possible for us here at Volvo to implement this idea without the involvement of Northern Engraving.
Design
As a Designer it is not always clear as to what the final product will look like. Design is like a puzzle. It grows slowly as the program develops and only when the final piece is in place are we satisfied. The Design department at Northern Engraving has helped Volvo with many pieces of the puzzle. With an unlimited choice of patterns produced by a design department whose creativity is second to none. It is a pleasure to be a Designer and work with Northern Engraving.
The creativity in both the Design and Engineering department at Northern Engraving I have not seen at any other supplier.
Northern Engravings Strengths Towards Competitors
- They are the same team from Purchase to Design who have worked together for 15 years.
- Privately owned company which means they can make quick decisions.
- Swedish based representation offering Customer Service with a personal touch.
- Design trends presented every year at Volvo which give our designers inspiration to enhance their idea's.
- Short lead times.
- Fast response to feasibility issues which enable our Designers to re-evaluate an idea.
Volvo and Northern Engraving have developed numerous decorative trim components over these past 14 years. We hope that this cooperation will continue for another 14 years.
-Gunnar Johansson, Chief Designer, Volvo Cars