Companies often face the challenge of developing and testing complex prototypes without the necessary infrastructure or expertise. SmartFactoryOWL offers a solution by enabling companies to test their new developments in a real production environment. An example of this support is a joint project with the Bielefeld-based SME BECATEX GmbH, which aimed at developing and testing a prototype for an emergency bag.
BECATEX GmbH, specializing in custom-made bags such as emergency bags for rescue services, defined the requirements for these bags, which included easy cleaning, excellent shock absorption, and a modular design. The bag needed to make ampoules and medications safely and quickly accessible.
In cooperation with SmartFactoryOWL, ampoule holders for emergency bags were developed. BECATEX’s 3D data was used to additively manufacture ampoule racks using 3D printing and test their applicability. Intelligent sensor technology collected data on vibrations occurring during fire department operations, helping to analyze ideal material properties. These insights led to optimized prototypes and reduced investment risks for series production.
The results improved the product characteristics of the emergency bags and enabled BECATEX GmbH to impress its customers – primarily the fire department – with innovative and optimized solutions.