"The AbaClock case is 100% Swiss made."
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Torben Baube, what fascinates you about product development?
Torben Baube: I think it's cool to improve products and help people with a problem. I enjoy developing solutions together with the customer, whether it's optimising the design to save costs, reducing throughput times or bringing production back to Switzerland. I enjoy working with customers to develop solutions, whether it's optimising the design to save costs, reduce throughput times or bring manufacturing back to Switzerland. The developed solution is then thoroughly tested in two to three iterations.
What was the biggest issue with the old AbaClock case?
TB: We focussed on three different topics: The price, production abroad and defective threads in the Plexiglas. We set out to reduce the price, bring production back to Switzerland and make the case more durable in terms of the locking mechanism.
Why did you decide in favour of the 3D printing manufacturing process?
TB: The main deciding factors were costs, quantities and a local manufacturer. In comparison to an injection moulding process, the initial costs for the mould are also saved.
«I enjoy product development.»
Torben Baube, Managing Director at improv3D GmbH.
How long does it take to print an AbaClock case?
TB: The AbaClock case consists of five different elements and printing takes a total of 12 hours. We print the parts very slowly to ensure high quality. Of course, we print prototypes faster.
How can the AbaClock case be assessed in terms of sustainability?
TB: It is very important to me that everything comes from the region: the machines, the production and the material - the main focus is on locality. The case is printed from recycled material and is produced entirely in Switzerland.
What were the success factors in the product development process?
TB: The project team plays an important role. At Abacus, people from different areas were involved. Product Management picked up and channelled the various requirements of the internal and external target groups, which was very valuable.
Is the product development process now complete?
TB: I believe you are never finished. There is no such thing as the perfect product. I am confident that the product can be continuously developed if we listen to customer requirements and develop new ideas. Hopefully we will be able to launch a new generation on the market in one or two years' time.
If all 65,000 Abacus customers order an AbaClock today, how long would it take for delivery?
TB: Too long! I wouldn't be able to do it all on my own and would have to resort to production partners. We would need around 20 tonnes of raw material, which would be almost 50 pallets and therefore more than a whole lorry full.
About Torben Baube
Torben Baube is Managing Director at improv3D GmbH. He is passionate about optimising existing products.
About improv3D GmbH
Improv3D aims to take existing products and processes and improve them with the help of three-dimensional models - from which the company name was derived. The company focusses on local procurement and production and primarily serves customers from the region of Eastern Switzerland.
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