When Lester Allen found that his new car did not have the right mounting system in the back for two bikes (his and his wife’s), he used his skills as an automotive designer to develop a new product that would meet his needs — and then asked Telford-based Proto Labs Ltd (
www.protolabs.co.uk) to help him.
When choosing his latest car, Mr Allen had been impressed by the proprietary mounting system that fits on the floor of the vehicle, but while the sale material indicated that it could easily accommodate both bikes, he found that there was only space for one.
The problem was the block design, which limited the system’s range of movement, both vertically and in rotation; it also offered no scope for the adjustment needed to accommodate different frame and wheel sizes.
Mr Allen came up with a new block design with the adjustability he needed and then approached Protolabs to assist with the manufacture.
The company identified some potential improvements that would streamline production, and these were discussed with Mr Allen. The suggested changes were largely aesthetic, and the final design retained the appearance that Mr Allen was hoping for.
He said: “The on-line service was excellent, providing clear information that guided my choice of material and finish for the piece. The customer services team were brilliant at all times, responding very effectively to our requests.”