From theory to practice through prototyping

The Foldaway folding crate now meets all client requirements — and those of the professional market — features a distinctive design, and, thanks to strength calculations, is the lightest folding crate on the professional market (1.8 kg). Now it was time to put theory into practice and bring the concept to life. Through rapid prototyping, we were able to quickly translate ideas into physical forms and test their functionality.

Scaled model or full sizee

By using 3D printing at a ½ scale, we were able to test the different models (600 × 400 mm and 300 × 400 mm). One of the key advantages of 3D printing is the ability to rapidly create prototypes with complex geometries, significantly shortening time to market. Needless to say, the handle is a critical component of a folding crate. To test its functionality, we also printed the crate at full scale.

Castings

Using cast parts made with silicone moulds, we verified whether the overall design met the requirements of the final folding crates (stackability, interlocking, and more). For this, we worked with materials whose properties closely resemble those of the production material.

An added benefit is that these cast parts can already be used for marketing purposes, such as product presentations at trade fairs.