Designing for manufacturability

An Edea® case study on Valtra’s award-winning tractors.

Nine manufacturing methods explored

Valtra Tractors has been a major client for Edea Design’s industrial design services since the 1980s. Although the creation of excellent user experiences is the main focus in our continuing design partnership, designing for manufacturability has always been an equally important design driver.

In this downloadable case study, we explore nine manufacturing methods we have used when making Valtra’s award-winning tractor designs into reality.

1 Injection molding

Injection molding is a highly versatile and efficient method that allows for the mass production of intricate and complex plastic products.

2 Vacuum forming

Vacuum forming allows for production of complex and lightweight plastic components at a relatively low price. It is suited for low to medium volumes.

3 Rotational molding

Rotomolding is used to create hollow plastic parts and components. It is suited for producing large, seamless, and relatively simple plastic items.

4 RIM / Telene

Reaction Injection Molding and Telene are known for their ability to create parts with smooth finishes, tight tolerances, and excellent structural integrity.

5 Sand casting

Sand casting is used for creating metal parts and components. It’s suitable for producing complex, large, or irregularly shaped components cost-effectively.

6 Deep drawing

Deep drawing is a manufacturing process used to transform flat metal sheets into three-dimensional objects with depth, sometimes with complex features.

7 Sheet molding compound

SMC is used to produce composite components. Complex shapes and intricate details can be achieved through it, allowing for innovative and customized designs.

8-9

Steel & glass

Steel profiles are versatile and readily available for use in frames and structures. Double-curved glass is used in windscreens; it requires precise craftmanship.