News

Automotive Design Solutions

Creative and technology-orientated vehicle development solutions by RLE International Product Development Ltd have been assisted by the use of a custom built 5m diameter revolve from British Turntable Co.

Turntables in automotive design studios are typically used to rotate clay models of new designs so that they can be viewed easily from all angles, for photographing the models, and in limited product launch work when the new model is first revealed. Because of these diverse demands the turntable has to be a multi-purpose device, able to cope with very heavy point loads to withstand the weight of a clay model. They must also be reliable, robust and quiet in operation, and aesthetically pleasing for the reveal.

RLE International delivers a premier service to UK automotive manufacturers and Tier 1 supplier industries with full studio, review, fabrication, paint, prototype build, CAD and vehicle engineering in-house. To meet their stringent requirements, British Turntable recommended, designed and manufactured the 5m diameter, 5 tonne capacity unit with variable speed up to a maximum of 2 rpm in either forward or reverse direction. Set in a 550mm deep pit to bring the surface of the turntable level with the surrounding floor, the revolve is of an all steel construction supported by a large central precision bearing for precise rotation and, around the perimeter, by heavy duty support wheels which are specially shaped and accurately positioned to ensure quiet operation. As well as a traditional master button control station, hand held radio remote controls were provided to allow the designers to operate the revolve from anywhere in the design studio. The steel deck plates, laid to an accuracy of just 3mm across the surface, are painted the same colour as the surrounding floor to ensure a consistent floor finish. Paul Gebbett, Design Manager at RLE International, comments, "The turntable is a great success and is considered to be an integral part of the services we offer at RLE International, adding a further dimension to the review process. The key reason for choosing a British Turntable revolve is their expert after sales and comprehensive technical support, which is vital to the role the turntable plays within RLE International. British Turntable products are highly regarded, offering good quality and low maintenance characteristics - further factors that have influenced our decision on which turntable manufacturer to choose."

British Turntable Co's reputation in supplying revolves for automotive design studios is based on the success of installations at major manufacturers such as Jaguar, Lotus, Ford and many more. The company has been supplying movement to industries as diverse as retailing, heavy engineering, exhibitions, TV, film and video, aerospace and automotive for more than 40 years and is well known across the world for automotive applications which can included anything from revolving a car in a showroom to a unit installed in an underground loading area to revolve and position heavy goods vehicles up to 40 tonnes capacity. Turntables range in size from 12mm diameter upwards, with larger revolves capable of carrying a military tank or an aeroplane.

For further information on engineered movement for styling studio work please contact us with your specific enquiry.