As the old saying goes, well planned is half done. This could well be the motto of the Meconet. Our objective is to solve the technical manufacturing and logistics challenges of our customers. At the same time, we free the valuable time of our customers for their core activities. Prototype manufacture offers a flexible and quick path towards volume products.
Our long-time co-operation partner Pekka Nurmi, the Operations Manager of Avantopool Oy, described the prototype manufacturing: “If you start planning from scratch, development stages, modifications, changes, and new ideas will inevitably follow. Meconet prototype manufacturing is very important for us; it has allowed us to work towards the end product in a flexible manner”.
Co-operation starts from design
Our co-operation project started in March 2017 when Avantopool was designing a recovery pool. The product marketed under the trademark Avantopool was intended for consumers, sports clubs and physical exercise centers; it would allow enjoying the benefits of ice swimming all year round.
We began to consider the shape of the Avantopool frame. At first, we thought about a pipe-structured frame, but soon found that this structure would not meet all of the wishes. After that we got the idea of designing the frame of metal sheet components and making the forms by a sheet metal working technology. With this idea we continued to the prototype manufacturing stage.
The benefits of sheet metal work always spill over from manufacture to design and logistics
Initially, there were several design approaches to the Avantopool, but functional and appearance-related circumstances directed our choice towards the sheet metal method. We had a simple idea as a complete solution. Light components make up a strong and stiff frame. This means that minimum material consumption provides a sturdy structure of high-quality feel and appearance.
In line with the sustainable development principle, the production is saving resources and reducing the carbon footprint. In addition, there are logistic benefits, since the components are delivered in a compact space and assembled only upon the final assembly – in other words, transporting air is not required.
It became clear that the sheet metal method brings almost limitless possibilities for assembly and design. For example, dimension changes are quite easy. Avantopool has many components, but this is not a problem. If a component is replaced, changes can be made. In addition, readiness for serial production is already there. In line with the principle of modular thinking, we have a single product that can be modified. For example, if dimensional relations change, it is still possible to use what has been made.
Award-winning product born through co-operation
The outcome of the co-operation won the industrial category of Plootu Fennica. In addition to Pekka Nurmi and me, the persons who participated in the creation of Avantopool included Ville Nenonen from RD Velho Oy (responsible for design and mechanical planning), Juha Kiukas from Avantopool (responsible for design and marketing), and Pauli Asikainen from Meconet (responsible for design and manufacture).
The Plootu Fennica jury praised Avantopool for being a product with inherently high assembly and strength characteristics. “In the support structures, sheet metal has been used in a cost-effective and ingenious manner. In the final product, the different materials have been combined skillfully. The structure of the recovery pool has been carefully thought down to the last detail and the modular structure is easily scalable. The pool looks impressive; it communicates reliability and strength”, the jury substantiated.
The Avantopool recovery pool is intended for recovery care of tired or sore muscles. The main target group is athletes, but Avant°pool is suitable for anyone who yearns for more vitality and energy, better immunity and less stress and pain. Examples of application environments include sports halls or ice rinks, sports schools, gyms, retirement homes, or even private homes.
“We have already co-operated successfully in our previous projects. Harri and Meconet are really easy to approach. The spirit of trust is there all right. Based on my experience, I can recommend Meconet”.
Pekka Nurmi, Operations Manager, Avantopool Oy
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