When customers come to RapidFit for a cube or frame, they’re looking for two things above all else: modularity and accuracy. The RapidLock, RapidFit’s patented quick-release system, is the key to providing both.
At first glance, RapidFit’s patented quick-release system may not look like anything special. On the surface, the RapidLock is simply a small black box that attaches to the frames and cubes RapidFit provides. But look beyond the obvious, and it becomes clear that it addresses many of the automotive industry’s key concerns; saving time, saving money, and making life easier for employees. Since its introduction several years ago, between 80 and 85 percent of the fixtures RapidFit produces feature one or more of the 50 x 50 cm or 100 x 100 cm squared —customers love it. But why?
Empowering modularity
One of the key benefits of RapidFit’s cubes and frames is modularity; customers can switch between models, combine and separate partial cubes, and quickly move parts between them. None of that would be as easy as it is without the RapidLock. Instead of bolting segments on and off each time a part is moved, users can simply turn the handle, put the piece in place, and lock it in. It’s an innovation that has had a big impact on the industry. So much so that a major supplier to OEMs has asked to add it to all future projects.
For RapidFit customers, this tool has proved invaluable. A team from one leading client has stated just how happy they are with how quickly they can change setups — thanks to the RapidLock, they can move through 16 different setups on a single fixture, three to five times faster than before. Better yet, they know that accuracy is guaranteed every time they do it.
Ensuring accuracy and repeatability
While modularity is often top of mind, accuracy and repeatability are never far behind. In fact, the one question customers always ask is, ‘How repeatable is it?’ Simply put, very. We’re talking microns in difference every time— that’s approximately one-thousandth of a millimeter. With such fine margins, the RapidLock offers repeatability that is on par with a tactile measurement tool like a coordinate measuring machine (CMM).
Saving time and money
This modularity and accuracy greatly impact costs, particularly when switching between models. Opting to invest in the RapidLocks on their first cube meant that one customer could move from their original design to a convertible model — with another larger variation to follow — at around 30% of the initial investment. The alternative would have been to buy three separate cubes or spend a lot of extra time and effort bolting pieces on and off.
Ensuring return on investment is crucial, and the RapidLock pays for itself very quickly by reducing the number of employee hours needed for each project. As an example, every part of the cube you can see in the video below was put on and off in the space of an hour, thanks to this one little tool — an ergonomic extra that will also reduce the strain on whoever has to lift, carry, and place each part.
How can you get the RapidLock?
The decision to include a RapidLock on your fixture or cube is made during the initial brief and design stage. Once the requirements are provided, the team determines whether or not modularity — and, therefore, the RapidLock— is necessary. If you would like to learn more about this process, about RapidFit in general, or begin working on your next project, get in touch with the team today.