New security buckle launched in just four weeks

CASE 3 - Lite Flite Ultrasafe Solutions APS | Thomas Knudstrup, Senior product manager reports:

“For many years, we have had a client that takes care of everything concerning the maintenance of their helicopters and safety equipment aboard: Belts, quick release-buckles, fixtures etc.

Therefore we also deal with equipment subjected to particularly high demands on functionality, durability and reliability. As a part of the safety, belts and buckles do have a limited service life.

What is a smart man to do?

Therefore, when our client expressed the need for a larger delivery of new 5-point belts with latches and quick release-functions, we suddenly found ourselves facing a big challenge. The challenge becomes even bigger upon realizing that one of the main parts is outdated. What is a smart man to do?

A fruitful dialogue

Six months earlier, I had had a fruitful dialogue with lpm production about the development of a completely different product. So, naturally, I gave them a call once again and we met a few days later. They were curious and obliging; they had a strong commitment and were not afraid of thinking outside the box.

All I had with me was a model of the current security buckle. There were no sketches. They listened, asked questions and made sketches. This took place in the beginning of December.

Creative constructor

In the middle of December lpm and their creative constructor, Michael Andersen, had measured the model and made a finished Cad-drawing; we had had a couple of brief meetings during the manufacturing of two prototypes; we had talked about potential simplifications; lpm had pinpointed and met norms and demands on materials in maritime environments  and purchased aluminium and stainless steel specifically made to sustain the weather at sea. So far, so fast…

Shortly before Christmas, we were able to tell our client that we could deliver within the set date. And despite having to make time for the necessary strength and tug tests, the new and quickly developed security buckle was now in the making - including subsequent processing like anodising and laser engraving.

When all is said and done

Lite Flite has found a business partner who takes ownership in various issues and challenges. Competent, creative and fast. At fair prices. And to make things easier, lpm is 9001 and 14001 certified.

Subsequently, lpm production has received the task of producing two of our other security buckles for helicopter use and has come up with suggestions and ideas to further product development on their own accord.”