Bespoke Machines makes full use of MiniTec profiles

Bespoke Machines Limited is a design and manufacturing company specialising in customised machinery, tooling and equipment for manufacturing and production. The Company was formed in 1994 to fill what the founders felt was a gap in the market for non-standard automated production and assembly systems. With a design philosophy of 'keep it simple' past projects have covered light-duty transistor trimming machines and machines for stretching canvas over artists' picture frames, to heavy-duty slate dressing machinery and electrical cable ladder production equipment. Automated processes have included punch and press, pneumatic drilling, MIG and TIG welding, motion controls and sensing systems for tension and position.

One way in which Bespoke Machines has distinguished itself from competitors is the extensive use of the Profile System modular machine framing system from MiniTec UK for building the basic machine structures, including guards and covers, linear and rotary positioners, conveyors and most of the ancillary equipment needed.

By standardising on MiniTec's Profile System, Bespoke Machines has built up a specialist acquaintance with the complete range, which, combined with the extensive design software available, allows the company to quickly and competitively design machine frames for the diverse range of applications it encounters.

No-drill fastening

Furthermore, the Profile System, with its innovative Powerlock fastener, allows the engineers the flexibility to make modifications and adjustments - as is often required during assembly and commissioning to optimise throughput or enhance finished part quality. Unlike other frame fastening methods, the Powerlock requires no pre-drilling or specialist preparation other than cutting the profile to length. A simple 8mm Allen key is all that is required to fix profiles in place. This not only permits a faster assembly time than similar framing systems but also allows profiles and structures to be reconfigured and replaced with the distinct advantage that any spares may be used for future projects - thereby saving even more time and cost. Bespoke Machines also saves further cost and simplifies assembly by fastening panels and plates with standard M8 hexagonal nuts and bolts, which fit directly in the Profile System T-slots.

For design and parts list creation, Bespoke Machines takes advantage of MiniTec's on-line visualisation and software tools, including the E-catalog online 3D catalogue, an easy-to-use graphical user interface that covers the complete range with specifications, hints and tips, and parts list information. MiniTec also provides its iCAD online design software system with downloadable 2D and 3D CAD files in a wide range of formats for direct import into Bespoke Machines' CAD program.

John Wilson, Bespoke Machine's Managing Director, comments: "Our equipment is typically cost-effective when off-the-shelf solutions are not available, and we have found that the MiniTec Profile System gives us a distinct advantage with its speed of assembly and the flexibility to easily modify critical parts of the machine with no wastage."

Further details for Bespoke Machines can be seen at www.bespokemachines.com.