Urethane Used to Create Prototype Lawnmowers

ARRK makes the cut for Flymo

04 Feb 2009

When Husqvarna needed prototypes for a new Flymo lawnmower ARRK produced a 25 component model that was able to perform actual grass-cutting field trials.

The use of ABS, with its high impact properties, allowed the ARRK’s model to endure the physical demands of grass cutting trials

Based on the client's brief as to how it intended to use the model, ARRK proposed an ABS fabricated CNC model and within 14 days supplied a model comprising 25 CNC components in ABS and clear acrylic. Following delivery the prototype model was used to prove the design and fit of the components

An additional benefit was that Husqvarna was able to conduct actual field trials to cut grass and confirm the performance of the lawnmower. The use of ABS, with its high impact properties, allowed the lawnmower to endure the physical demands of the trials. This was vital to the success of the project and allowed the design team to optimise the cut and collection of the new Multimo 360XC rear collection mower.

After successful trials ARRK was then commissioned to produce vacuum castings of all the components, resulting in 15 fully assembled lawnmowers being supplied. As all the models were going to be used for photo shoots and marketing meetings, ARRK used its PremCast service, which uses CNC masters to make silicone tooling to produce exhibition standard, reproduction castings. This ensured the model communicated the important product features to major retailers.

These features included the clear vision window, cable winder, central height of cut adjustment, 36cm bladed product, 40ltr grass box, etc. The vacuum castings were produced using colour matched polyurethane resins that were as close to final production material as possible.

The components were fully finished, textured, assembled and then delivered to the client within four weeks. Husqvarna was delighted with the quality of all the models it received and has since reported a very successful product launch which reinforced the Flymo brand in the market place.

http://www.engineeringcapacity.com/archive101/2009/february/industry_news/arrk_makes_the_cut_for_flymo

Comments

[Lawnmowers]

Sounds very interesting. Could i buy one of these, where do i go?

[cnc prototyping]

RTV is a nice and cost effective process when you only need 25 pieces, because the tooling costs are very low compred too steel moulds