Informative EV Trade Show Display Model
REACH Strategies works with organizations in the electric vehicle (EV) space with their communications and engagement campaigns. As a vendor at the 2024 St. Louis Auto Show, REACH needed a detailed, educational display on the benefits of EVs. They approached Empire Group due to the strength of our proprietary in-house design and engineering capabilities.
In particular, they required an accurate EV model demonstrating the advantages of electric charging technology. Our process efficiencies and design mastery would prove vital to meeting the project's tight three-week turnaround.
Project Parameters
To contrast the complexity of gas-powered engines, REACH commissioned an interactive scale model highlighting the inherent simplicity of EVs. The model required electronics to turn on and off for demonstrations as well as durability to hold up to frequent handling during the show.
Based on the client’s set budget, we reverse-engineered the process to meet their requirements. Our model makers, design engineers, CNC machinists, and 3D printing experts worked closely to produce the model within the required timeline and based on client-provided sketches. We used traditional thermal forming techniques to create the clear body and printed out all other components in a matter of days. All design, final assembly, testing, and QC work was done in-house, which allowed us to directly monitor progress and quality from start to finish.
Capabilities Used
Empire Group worked closely with the client to select the right combination of materials, tooling, and production methods. We settled on a traditional thermal forming process to create the model's transparent body. More advanced 3D printing techniques were ideal for the internal components representing the EV's electrical drivetrain.
The entire process drew from almost all our design for manufacturing (DFM) services:
Prototyping: Our rapid prototyping expertise resulted in a high-fidelity, looks-like, works-like model that resembled a final product. We applied numerous engineering, electromechanical, and finishing technologies to create the model according to detailed specifications.
3D Modeling & Fabrication
Stereolithography (SLA): With its outstanding edge definition, accuracy, and smoothness, SLA provides a level of realism and detail not normally found in model replicas.
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF): For more intricate and functional parts that require greater strength, we used MJF printing. MJF is known equally for its production-grade materials and reduced waste and costs.
CNC Machining: Our state-of-the-art CNC machines were more appropriate for the model's load-bearing components. CNC machining can create highly precise tooling, molds, and dies, resulting in consistent, extremely intricate end components.
Custom Finishing and Color Matching: For this project, we used all of our surface treatment and finishing processes, including painting and sophisticated color matching. By contrasting the EV's clear-resin body with a bright and balanced color palette, the model served its purpose by attracting the attention of show attendees from great distances.
Throughout the process, we shared our digital models and progress reports with REACH Strategies, giving them real-time updates on our production status.
On-Demand Custom Prototyping From Empire Group
Empire Group is proud of each of our turnkey DFM solutions. We also take pride in our history of achieving rapid time to market with zero compromise on quality—and so did our client:
"The models turned out AMAZING!!!" —REACH Strategies Program Strategy & Development Director
Auto show guests and other associates were also quick to remark on the success of REACH Strategies' display on LinkedIn, describing it as “great” and “beautiful.”
At Empire Group, we help digital media organizations, product influencers, and marketing professionals tell their unique product story. Our goal is to provide tools not only to help bring brand awareness but also to amplify key product characteristics through visual aids. We approach every project intending to balance utility and aesthetics, and our experienced engineers and technicians leverage the most advanced prototyping, machining, and 3D printing technology to hit our clients' targets.
Contact Empire Group about your trade show display model needs, or request a quote for your next project.