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.
