2018 SHORTLISTED
HMPS MODULAR FRAME ARCHITECTURE
HMPS PTY LTD
Category:
PRODUCT DESIGN
INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL
Design:
HMPS
About
HMPS has developed a modular design which allows for benefits on multiple layers. For HMPS it means we are able to produce packaging machinery which is more cost effective and offers a faster turnaround. For customers it means flexibility which allows them to be fit for future.
Design Challenge
HMPS was initiating new designs which involved cost and time on an ongoing basis. We identified the need for a standardised design. On the other hand we had customers who wanted to start automating earlier in the process and with a smaller budget. The result was a standardised machine design in a modular format with the cost benefit to allow for smaller producers to start benefiting from automation.
Design Solution
The new design allows the customer flexibility. Future retro fitting within similar sizes ranges are possible. Three frame sizes will be available to allow future expansion for the customer. One of the key design elements is the visibility of the machine. Fault finding is a lot easier as the machine will light up in the area where the problem has occurred. The inner workings it off the ground allowing for easy of access, a safer operating environment for the operator and a clear walkway. A washdown version is available allowing for hygienic operation which is sealed or easily cleanable. Finite Element Analysis was completed on the standard parts and HMPS understand the vibration and harmonics of the machine at various loads. This allows for a frame with less movement, a safer operating environment and a longevity of the product. Because these studies are already completed, the customer can look forward to a high quality product manufactured in a short period of time.
Design Impact
The new machine was launched at Propak Asia 2018 during June and received considerable interest from the local market to appreciate the quick turnaround, future flexibility and cost competitiveness of the product. For HMPS it has mean a considerable commercial advantage as the standardised product and processes has streamlined our design and assembly and allows us more time to spend on customised designs for larger manufacturers while still servicing the smaller manufacturers with a quality product. Our machines are fitted with HMPSConnect, our IoT solutions so that manufacturers in remote areas or out of Australia can receive the same amount of technical support as local customers.
Other Key Features
Australian manufacturing is competing on an international basis. Many machine builders in Europe and the USA already offer standardised options but at a high price tag. As we envisage a considerable uptake from Asia for this product, we were conscious of the cost and time factor involved and it has been designed specifically with these smaller producers in mind. The new product allows us to be more cost and time competitive while still offering customisation to customers who want to start automating earlier in the production process. HMPS feels that this solution will assist Australian manufacturing to better compete on a global scale. In terms of the HMPS brand identity the highly visible fault finding mechanism and clean design strengthens our brand recognition and offers a unique selling proposition which differentiates us from the competitors. The fact that the machine lights up allows for reduced time in fault finding – a design with beauty and brains! Because of the scalable design options, it provides aesthetically pleasing design for the factory floor in that all machines are standard and uniform and present well on the floor. If is our interest to grow our exports to the Asian and other developing markets through the launch of the new HMPS MFA (Modular Frame Architecture). Build brand identity through design.