Rapid Line Industries, Inc.

MULTI-AXIS, MULTI-TASKING DESIGN BENCH DRAMATICALLY ACCELERATES THE DEVELOPMENT OF VEHICLES

JOLIET, IL-Introduced by Rapid Line Industries, Inc., the RL-7000 Rapid Line Vehicle Design & Manufacturing System is specifically engineered to enable automotive designers and manufacturers to speed up the development and production of new vehicles, and achieve higher levels of precision at a substantially reduced cost in the process.

Highlighting the RL-7000 are multi-axis arms that can be positioned anywhere within the tubular frame of the bench promoting quick, easy set-ups and adjustments. This contrasts with equipment currently available to automotive designers and racecar builders that employ a conventional "flat table requiring specially fabricated fixtures that can make even minor changes and adjustments a lengthy and costly process. This capability to make changes "on the fly not only speeds up the overall process, but also provides the expanded capabilities that give technicians more design options for greater creativity.

Another key advantage of the universal, mobile bench design system is the multi-tasking capability that is consistent with the "common process concept major automakers are currently integrating into their design and production processes. This capability eliminates the need for "dedicated tools to accomplish tasks ranging from frame and suspension design, to drive train and bodywork. The RL-7000 easily rolls from station to station to provide a productive tandem of mobility and convenience.

The RL-7000, which is available in standard 8-, 10- and 12-foot lengths as well as custom sizes, readily adapts to both existing vehicle designs and new prototype models, and offers faster set-up for improved productivity. In addition to accelerated mounting times, the modular system is compatible with most existing fixtures and measuring systems. Beyond accommodating a broad and flexible range of design tasks, the RL-7000 is adaptable to virtually every automotive body style. All adjustment and assembly tools are included with the basic unit.

Engineered to carry a "full-dressed car, the high-strength RL-7000 features alloy steel construction, fixture-welded components, high-quality roller bearing swivel wheels, and a rust-resistant zinc finish.

Optional wheel types are available, including adjustable, high-temperature wheels that are ideal for track systems and paint booth bake ovens. Also available is an economical laser attachment to establish datum base and centerline points with a level of precision that is comparable with measuring devices costing thousands of dollars more.

The modular-designed RL-7000 offers a compact footprint that reduces space requirements and congestion in crowded production areas. Additionally, work height easily adjusts to suit ergonomic requirements. Engineered to provide an added measure of safety, RL-7000 employs a positive-locking system that holds vehicles in a secure, stable position, safeguarding workers both above and below the vehicle.

The RL-7000 is the result of a collaborative effort with a major U.S. automaker that had been using Rapid Line's RL-1000 mobile bench since the late 1980s. The RL-7000 represents a direct response to that same company's request in 1997 for a design system that offers greater convenience and flexibility, as well as improved safety and ergonomics. In addition to the RL-7000s currently being employed by this customer, Rapid Line has also sold numerous units to other automakers, as well as the racing industry and concept car builders.

Established in 1984, Rapid Line Industries, Inc., has an impressive history of providing specialized products for the automotive industry. In addition to the universal, mobile-bench prototyping systems currently being used by automotive designers/ manufacturers, racecar builders and repair facilities around the globe, the company also markets the Performance Calculator™ software tool for calculating and simulating engine, chassis and suspension design and development.