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Complete development of bodies |
Filling the Nische: Binz complete development of bodies for special vehicles
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»We want a product that is optimised in every aspect« is how Gerhard Kurr, Managing Director of the company Binz in Lorch, formulated his aims at the initial meeting on the development of the latest range of ambulances and hearses. This statement is fully in keeping forms the basis for the long-standing successful cooperation between Binz and the Technikum in Ehningen.
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Successful change of image
The teams at Binz and Bertrandt worked together at an early stage within the framework of the joint project. As a result, constructive communication was established between the engineers and the sales personnel at Binz even during the concept phase. At the same time, the holistic consideration of the design aspects at Bertrandt allowed the shape and concept to be proven within just a few weeks. The designers succeeded in giving each vehicle type an independent identity while at the same time defining the family character of the Binz product range. The change of image from an E-Class saloon to an extravagant, six-metre-long stretched limousine or from an E-Class T-model to an ambulance or hearse was successfully achieved.
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HoHigh level of innovation due to Integrated Frame Technology
Since a good relationship between unladen weight and maximum payload plays an important role in these special vehicles, which are sold only in relatively small numbers, Binz decided to use a glass-fibre sandwich design for the body of the new model. The new manufacturing methods and joining techniques involved were defined jointly and then adapted and further developed for each new vehicle. Once the basic requirements for each of the vehicles had been determined, the strength and superstructure concept were developed using new Integrated Frame Technology. The components have a high level of innovation with regard to their form, function, assembly and weight. In some cases, the joining concept and the optimised component separation even made it possible to do without some assembly equipment. Such highly integrated components have to meet extremely high design requirements, since they have to form both the outer skin and the interior surfaces.
Process of continuous improvement
Developing the various vehicles turned out to be quite a complex process. The superstructure principle and the manufacturing technologies were basically maintained in each case. However, due to the functional and formal differences, there were in some cases considerable deviations in the design of the vehicles. In view of the tight cost and time framework, all those involved were fascinated to see how the solutions developed. The designers succeeded in achieving a process of continuous improvement in the three vehicle projects. The tasks and roles performed by all the companies involved soon crystallised into their optimum form, resulting in higher project efficiency.
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Show model and marketing
The modelmaking team in Ehningen produced a 1:6-scale model of the H211/4 hearse for the Funéraire 2003 fair in Paris. For this occasion, Bertrandt was also active in the field of marketing for Binz. Their services included designing advertising material and graphic presentations as well as giving a presentation in Britain. 14
Summary
Binz’s products are currently the only vehicles of their kind that are developed and designed exclusively on the computer in the same way as a large-volume series production vehicle. Strength testing on the DaimlerChrysler Hydropuls system produced excellent results for the Binz designs. The holistic approach and the consistent pursuit of a product philosophy for Binz allowed them to make a spectacular comeback in the hearse sector. Their ambulance model was also immediately accepted by customers and experts alike. The design and construction of the vehicles set them apart from their competitors. Bertrandt sees the high level of acceptance on the part of the end users and the success for Binz as recognition for its work. It is a reason for all those involved in the project to be proud of what they have achieved.
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