Identity Solutions

process
Screen printed aluminum
Brushed aluminum
Crimped aluminum

application
Volvo C30 Interior Trim

challenge
• Interpret nautical chart theme on aluminum trim

solution
The pattern on the floating center stack was inspired by ancient nautical charts.  Longitude, latitude and dashed directional lines are layered on a brushed background.  Screen printed texture adds dimension.  Our designers worked with Volvo design to develop the custom finish.  The idea began with a design brief followed by a series of sample developments fine tuning the custom aluminum finish.  The center console tooling has been used by Volvo to create multiple trim options for various cars.  The attention to detail in the trim design allows Volvo customers the flexibility to make detailed interior choices choosing from fresh modern style cues.  The high level of craftsmanship and custom finish shown on the console trim are carried across the interior door handles.

process
Printed aluminum
Doming (norlens)

application
Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Bronzers

challenge
• Create a luxurious tortoise shell insert with depth

solution
The luxe, brown and gold flecked tortoise shell finish is printed on aluminum using transparent layers of ink which allow the reflective quality of the metal to show through.  The faux tortoise shell finish was custom developed on metal.  Perfection of the artwork, critical to the success of the program, involved collaboration between Estée Lauder and our designers.  Printed prototypes were used during the artwork progression process to fine tune the tortoise shell structure and overall color.  The application of a urethane dome to the metal insert makes the plaque an eye-catching durable solution for cosmetic packaging.

process
Selective Decoration with Forming

application
Volvo Automobile

challenge
• Update decoration utilizing existing tools

solution
Northern Engraving designers worked with Volvo design exploring multiple processing options for updating this benchmark automotive trim piece. The featured graphic was prototyped in various decorative aluminum processes to evaluate the options for the aluminum surface.  The final version uses selective brushing of the aluminum to create a bold graphic with subtle definition and movement. The result is a fresh new look that saves money by taking advantage of existing tooling.

process
NovaTrim

application
Harley-Davidson Motorcycle

challenge
• Hammered look on aluminum

solution
This Screamin' Eagle aluminum trim features an embossed texture which creates a hammered metal look.  Harley-Davidson designers challenged Northern Engraving with duplicating the look of hammered metal on aluminum trim.  Our engineers used the Nova Trim process to achieve the effect.

The Nova Trim process integrates texture into aluminum mechanically creating dimensional effects.  It can be combined with traditional processes such as printing, diamond cutting and mechanical finishes to add elegance and dimension to aluminum trim. The resulting trim has texture built right into the aluminum substrate for an authentic metal look.

process
Process color on aluminum

application
Callaway Golf Club

challenge
Provide a jewel look on the nameplate

solution
Callaway reviewed the patterns in the Northern Engraving library of aluminum finishes.  A mother of pearl finish was chosen as a starting point.  However, Callaway wanted to create further depth in the mother of pearl effect on aluminum.  The nameplate needed to have the visual depth of an actual mother of pearl finish.  The final medallion uses a layering of processes to achieve the movement and shift of color common in mother of pearl.  The layout and color combinations for the medallion were explored in concept drawings and prototypes on aluminum.  This step allowed Callaway designers to evaluate and fine tune the many possibilities available, actually laying the samples into their golf club.

application
Pure Turquoise Eau de Parfum by Ralph Lauren 

challenge
Decorative with high perceived value

solution
An heirloom piece of turquoise was used in developing this decorative cosmetic inlay.  Northern Engraving's expertise in color matching and structure development came together to achieve subtle color variations present in the natural turquoise.  The stone was referenced for overall look and color in duplicating the effect on aluminum.

application
Harley-Davidson Motorcycle

challenge
• Rugged, worn look for nameplate to be applied
to a contoured surface
• Alternative to zinc die-cast

solution
Our designer skillfully combined hand-rendering with graphics software to produce a custom finish that gives a worn and rugged appearance. Northern Engraving’s tool engineering knowledge developed the part to conform to the contour of the motorcycle tank.