Erfindergeist GmbH
EngineeringStudioandDesignFirm

erfindergeistis able to develop and realize designs for our clients, from problem analysis to batch production.

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Erfindergeist GmbH
© photo: Firmengruppe Max Bögl, graupause
Transport System Bögl (TSB)
Exterior Design
The Transport System Bögl (TSB) is a fully automatic transportation system for local public transport. erfindergeist carried out the entire design development for the production vehicles on behalf of Max Bögl. Essential design components such as the front of the vehicle were developed and constructed by erfindergeist. Stringent demands in terms of lightweight construction, available interior space and safety had to be met. As a result, the visual appearance is noticeably different from that of conventional transport systems such as metro, tram, or bus.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Transportation System
Thanks to magnetic levitation technology and onboard short stator linear motors, the TSB railcars are virtually soundless and do not emit exhaust fumes or particulate matter. Prefabricated concrete elements allow for fast assembly and integration of new tracks into cityscapes and urban areas while saving resources. A fully automatic transportation system, the TSB offers a capacity of up to 30,000 passengers per hour and direction, which is on a par with an underground metro. Its infrastructure costs considerably less than that for other systems with similar performance.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Design Development
From the outset, the design development process was carried out with a clear focus on the technical requirements and in close coordination with the client and the development teams. The client’s target was a design original in its visual appearance that should stand out from other modes of transport. The transportation system’s unique features were to be structurally highlighted and functionally supported. erfindergeist’s design approach met all technical requirements such as an integrated front emergency exit system.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Virtual Reality
As a supplement to traditional design methods such as sketches, CAD models and renderings, erfindergeist harnessed the potential of virtual reality for the TSB project from the start. With no other vehicle system on the market for comparison, the design process began with a blank sheet of paper. Early on, simple CAD models were created and then examined in virtual reality. The option of instantly exploring newly designed geometries in a virtual environment helped our client Max Bögl make decisions and greatly accelerated the TSB’s development.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Vehicle Front Design
The front panelling was inspired by the clarity and character of modern pre-cast concrete elements. Necessary technical joints were consciously used as design elements. At higher travel speeds, spoilers at the front of the vehicle are actively adjusted to create airflow channels which reduce air resistance. The spoilers at the rear are kept closed and serve as a lip. They reduce wind noise and contribute significantly to the transportation system’s energy efficiency.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Vehicle Front Development
The vehicle front, made of carbon-fibre reinforced polymer and featuring actively adjustable spoilers, was entirely developed and constructed by erfindergeist using CAD. The fibre composite components were conceptualized and laid out in close cooperation with Ruppert Composite. A consistent lightweight approach and the requirements set for railway vehicles designed for passenger traffic were paramount for the development process. The TSB’s vehicle front is among the most lightweight of its size on the market today.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Supplier Support
erfindergeist’s task was not limited to modelling visible functional areas using fully parametric CAD surface models but also entailed detailing all individual components on the railcar body such as foam cores, inserts and attachments. Details pertaining to the manufacturing process such as component partitions and adhesive gaps were already taken into account in the CAD models. Liaising closely with suppliers throughout development ensures results of high quality and precision.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Assembly Support
At erfindergeist, we see ourselves not only as designers and developers drafting new products in the studio. We also support our clients through the realization of their products. At Max Bögl’s request, we provided assembly support for all components for the vehicle front and were on site for the production of the first railcars. For us, inspecting results in practice is an integral part of product development.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Indicator Lights
The individual indicator lights in the front and back of the railcar serve as characteristics for the TSB’s visual appearance. Its door lights help direct passengers while they embark and disembark. The initial prototypes of the indicator lights and the specialized lights on the door leaves were developed, constructed, and manufactured by erfindergeist. The lightweight housings made of aluminium contain luminaire covers with a light transmission film layer to create a homogenous luminous surface. The LED prints were developed in cooperation with Astra LED.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Model Construction
erfindergeist constructed presentation models at a scale of 1:50 for Max Bögl. The architectural models of the driveway and supports are completely cast from concrete and significantly augment the models’ look and feel. From milling the original models of the vehicles and track, and casting the concrete rails to the final assembly, the models were fully manufactured in the erfindergeist studio. They are used by Max Bögl for trade fairs and presentations worldwide.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Vehicle Tests
TSB railcars are currently undergoing extensive tests on two dedicated tracks in Sengenthal (Germany) and Chengdu (China). The lightweight vehicles were transported to China as air freight using an Antonov 124-100 plane. The 3.5 km test track’s concrete parts were precast in Bavaria and delivered to China by train. The Max Bögl group is able to offer planning, manufacturing of the track and vehicles, control technology and all construction work from a single source.
Erfindergeist GmbH
© photo: Firmengruppe Max Bögl, graupause
Transport System Bögl
Interior Design
The Transport System Bögl (TSB) is designed as a fully automatic transportation system for local public transport which can serve a wide range of user groups in urban areas. The interior provides a high degree of everyday utility for commuters as well as families or tourists. erfindergeist developed a layout with an open spatial design and maximum standing room on behalf of Max Bögl. The colour concept was consciously kept muted so as to offer scope for the integration of the corporate colours of clients and operating companies.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Design
Independence and clarity were the guiding principles of this interior design. Durability, practical utility, and safety were central considerations in design development and in the choice of materials. Interior fittings seem to levitate, reflecting the passengers’ transport experience in the maglev train. Generous functional areas for wheelchairs, prams, or bicycles, as well as seating areas, are provided at each end of the carriage, directly beside the doors.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Functional Integration
Special emphasis was placed on creating synergies in the functional integration of vehicle systems. Ceilings double as air ducts, necessary technical joints between components are used as inlets and outlets for ventilation and air conditioning. Cladding serves as a reflector for the indirect LED lighting. The lighting’s colour temperature can be adjusted according to the time of day and intended use. Coloured effect lighting reinforces the floating appearance of the interior fittings while also functioning as part of the signage.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Mock-up
Mock-ups were employed from an early stage of the TSB project at the erfindergeist studio. Laser cutters and 3D printers enabled us to quickly build testing setups and make adjustments at short notice. erfindergeist uses physical models to test the ergonomics and augments them using virtual reality to simulate fully illuminated and textured vehicles. This allowed us to test different layouts for the TSB maglev train’s railcar interior.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Lighting Mock-Up
A mock-up was used to evaluate the TSB’s lighting concept and to take initial readings. Although the interior lighting of vehicles can be simulated well using current technology, the subjective spatial effect and homogeneity are best assessed from inside a physical setup. Changes in colour temperature, the effect lights and the emergency lighting were also tested. The entrance lighting and handrail were constructed as a model to allow experiments with lighting effect and reflection.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Renderings
erfindergeist uses real CAD geometry to create renderings. Volume and surface models are assigned textures and materials, and lights are placed realistically. Creating visualizations early during the product development process can be useful for communication with clients as well as for sales and marketing. At erfindergeist, renderings also help us evaluate the lighting effect and spatial impression. As we create our own renderings in our studio, we can make accommodate requests to make adjustments at short notice.
Transport System Bögl
Virtual Reality
In cooperation with Vision 11, the TSB’s entire CAD geometry was transformed into an illuminated and textured virtual environment including animated doors, opening front emergency exit, and a platform. The simulation can switch between a day and a night scenario. For client demo purposes, all features are controlled via a user interface. The entire length of the vehicle is accessible to the viewer through the use of space tracking. Almost like a real experience.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Experimental Setups
We use experimental setups to evaluate the effectiveness and serviceability of components and assemblies. Much insight can be gained from even relatively simple tests. They can quickly bring certainty especially in early project phases. The TSB’s climate-control ceiling was pretested in cooperation with our development partner Ingenieus to verify its concept of having all inlets and outlets inside the ceiling joints. The effect lights’ impression was tested using material samples long before initial sample parts for standing supports were available.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Supplier Support
During the implementation phase of the TSB project, erfindergeist supervised all aspects of the production and manufacturing of any large system components and design-relevant assemblies. Our experience in rail vehicle construction and broad technical understanding enable us to break new ground together with our suppliers. We are mindful of the economics of production and can find good technical solutions without having to compromise on components’ visual appearance.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Assembly Support
We consider supporting the assembly of design-relevant components an elemental part of vehicle interior construction. Together with our clients, development partners and suppliers we are working hard on finding good solutions. Our background as designers and engineers enables us to strike a balance between the two fields, especially when solving problems pertaining to the project or to procurement. Gained practical knowledge is immediately applied to any new development and design.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Transport System Bögl
Pictograms
erfindergeist created all labels and pictograms for the Transport System Bögl. All symbols and elements were designed exclusively for the project and aligned with the railcar’s design. The pictograms are kept in a modern and dynamic style. Ensuring simplicity and clearness was a priority; this was achieved by reducing the design to essential elements. As a full-service provider, erfindergeist also handled procurement and placement of the pictograms.
Huber+Suhner
Building Antenna Sencity Occhio
Sencity Occhio is an in-building multiband antenna. Its 1.7-6 GHz band and 2x2/4x4 MIMO configurations meet the diverse requirements of 4G and 5G standards. Bearing in mind the target market, erfindergeist conceptualized this product in close cooperation with our client Huber+Suhner Its very compact dimensions are the result of developing the high-frequency technology and shape design in parallel. Not only is Sencity Occhio among the smallest antennas in its class, it also offers click-in installation without the need for tools.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Huber+Suhner
Red Dot Design Award 2019
With its clear, elegant shape and slim look it blends discreetly into the architecture of any room. Its tool-free installation in combination with the design’s elegance and restraint also convinced the international jury at the Red Dot Design Award 2019. Its compact execution and efficient installation also met with great approval from architects and service technicians. The patented mounting system and the award-winning design provide the foundation for a new generation of in-building antennas at Huber+Suhner.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Huber+Suhner
User & Field Trials
User and field trials are an integral part of research and analysis at erfindergeist. Their results often identify new requirements which prompt a revision of essential aspects of the task. Through conversations with architects and service technicians as well as by conducting our own installation experiments using setups at erfindergeist, we came to the realization that time-saving installation and an unobtrusive design are major unique selling points for in-building antennas on the market.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Huber+Suhner
Prototypes
The infrastructure at the erfindergeist studio allows us to build prototypes and testing setups in an efficient and iterative fashion. Using generative tools, a multitude of variations can be produced and tested in a matter of days. Given the variety of materials used for ceilings systems in construction and the resulting demands on a mounting system, this was a crucial advantage in the development of the Sencity Occhio in-building antenna.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Huber+Suhner
Integration & Installation
The click-in mounting system works on a variety of ceiling components of different thicknesses, from sheet metal and wood to mineral-based materials. At the same time, the system meets the applicable construction and fire safety requirements. It can be fitted with one hand, which makes installation significantly easier while standing on a ladder compared to a screw-mounted antenna solution. The installation time per antenna is much shorter and the need for a second technician is eliminated in all markets.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Huber+Suhner
Sample Case Distribution
To gather client feedback even while the product development process was still ongoing, erfindergeist designed sample cases for Huber+Suhner. Equipped with antennas, cables, plugs and fittings, these were used in distribution ahead of time. The insight gained regarding size and handling was applied to the development of the Sencity Occhio in-building antenna before batch production began.
GoodAir
Aroma Diffuser
GoodAir Compact Line is an aroma diffuser for interiors up to 150 square metres. The device, which uses a cartridge system, was developed and designed by erfindergeist. Its patented concept offers highly precise dosing and output for homogeneous fragrancing. The cartridge system allows a high standard of hygiene. The device itself is constructed of a small number of sheet metal parts, which means easy-to-clean surfaces, no tool costs and efficient assembly. The diffuser, cartridges, and the high-quality fragrances, which are to the greatest possible extent free of allergens, come from Switzerland.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
GoodAir
Design
The design is characterized by refined metal surfaces. The principles of lean manufacturing were consistently followed during the design and construction of all parts. Using multiple batches of prototypes enabled us to simultaneously test the new concept, verify latent customer needs and optimize the assembly process. The result is a practical aroma diffuser offering a combination of efficient manufacturing and high functionality. The devices have been tested and certified according to current EN standards.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
GoodAir
Functional Models
erfindergeist combined design models and functional models into one. This allowed us to verify formal and functional customer needs while development was still ongoing. The iterations carried out in the product development process provided important insights that helped optimize the diffuser’s construction in terms of production and assembly. This achieved a high level of functional integration and met the client’s ambitious targets in terms of design, function, and efficiency.
Erfindergeist GmbH
GoodAir
Patents
The precise fragrance dosing unit and the fluidic method for a homogeneous distribution in the room are patented. The method works efficiently using only the smallest amounts of fragrances. All parts that come into contact with the fragrance are on the cartridge. The exchangeable cartridge system ensures high standards of hygiene in the long term. This is a great advantage over comparable aroma diffusers on the market.
Erfindergeist GmbH
GoodAir
Assembly Optimization
The pre-series units were each set up on a test assembly station. Here, each part was evaluated and optimized for ease of assembly in parallel to the device development. erfindergeist maintained a dialogue with the producer and the suppliers and devised all production documents. We also supported the device approval process, which was carried out with Electrosuisse. Thanks to the optimized assembly processes, the aroma diffusers can be fully manufactured in Switzerland.
Südostbahn (SOB)
Fire Extinguisher Integration
In cooperation with Swiss regional railway company Schweizer Südostbahn, a fire safety analysis was carried out for the Stadler Flirt 1 and 2 trainsets in their fleet. Potential for improvement was identified pertaining to the fire extinguishers’ visibility and accessibility. erfindergeist devised a new strategy for their placement, the centrepiece of which is a bracket that allows pulling out the extinguisher without removing a safety element. The boxes were placed directly on the boarding platforms using existing connection points.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Visualizations
Traffic Planning
Requirements for vehicles used in public transport often result from operator concepts. These concepts are in turn closely linked to basic elements of traffic planning such as passenger breakdowns, routing, and station design. Cross-interface cooperation with traffic planners yields an in-depth understanding of the requirements, challenges and trends in public transport and is crucial for erfindergeist’s efforts to develop needs-oriented vehicle layout and interior design solutions.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Special mechanical engineering
Profile Machining Centre
The Profile Machining Centre is a custom-built CNC mill with 16 CNC servo axes. erfindergeist combined the system’s development and construction with the design and integration of new elements to reflect corporate identity. Specialized machines manufacturer SEH GmbH uses these now for all its systems as clear visible links between the machines across a wide variety of purposes and designs, and the company.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Dongle
Casing
erfindergeist’s casing design can accommodate a variety of small measurement and control devices. Potential use cases include light meters, remote controls, or display elements. Options range from a stylish desk ornament to a multitool for facility managers. Thanks to its rotationally symmetrical properties, an injection moulding tool with a mould cavity is sufficient. Simple sheet metal parts are used to both join and protect the casing and allow for the device to meet different functional requirements.
Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
CKruiser
E-Bike
The CKruiser project explored the idea of using cost-efficient fibre composite components in functional design prototypes in the field of micromobility. Production insights gained during the development were later applied to support the manufacturing process of orthopaedic technology. The bicycle’s fully functional design prototype inspired an entrepreneur to start a whole new brand of e-bikes. The Benno Bikes range of products was influenced by the concepts and ideas behind the CKruiser.
Erfindergeist GmbH
Orthopedic technology
Prosthetic Cover
erfindergeist cooperated with experts in orthopaedic technology and prosthetics, and a specialist in generative printing to carry out a study into a manufacturing process for prostheses. A digital image was created based on a 3D scan of the young patient’s healthy leg. Its digital counterpart was then modified based on the construction as well as individual preference, which allowed for more design options while drastically reducing manual work. The resulting prosthesis covers withstood an endurance test by their new owner, an active skier.
VisionandReality

True innovation requires vision and a firm grasp on technology. To understand technology’s potential is to be able to push its boundaries and break new ground.

We support our clients during the entire product development process. This is how we ensure that brand promises created through design are backed up by real products that deliver on them.

SpecialistsorGeneralists

As generalists, we can draw on our broad knowledge and skills. We do not shy away from asking questions or familiarizing ourselves with new topics. Shortcuts often present themselves thanks to our wide network of specialists and suppliers.

We work by a basic principle: fewer interfaces mean less effort, faster insights, and shorter development times. Some projects only become feasible using this approach.

Small TeamandBig Tasks

We have gathered a wealth of experience by playing major roles in large international projects. Always at the junction of conception and development, today we combine engineering and design. Development projects that span several years are not unfamiliar to us. We keep going, committed to the project from start to finish.

Meanwhile, in our capacity as versatile generalists, we have carried out dozens of small projects quickly and efficiently. We are able to cover most of the steps in product development ourselves and significantly reduce the number of project participants.

Fly HighorStay Grounded

Far-sighted product development requires a high altitude to gain vision and a clear view of the horizon. Making projects happen requires having both feet on the ground and dealing with hard facts. We are just as comfortable attending strategy meetings as we are walking the dusty floor of a workshop. Our day-to-day work lies in between. We keep ourselves aware of the challenges that the future holds as well as the latest technology.

Our grasp on all parts of the value chain gives us a good sense of as well as knowledge and skills for the technological and economic execution of a project.

Generating IdeasorBroadening Horizons

We generate ideas and broaden horizons. We contribute an unobstructed view from the outside and, as engineers and designers, we are not limited by the confines of either specialty. Our clients are industrial entrepreneurs, SMEs, start-ups, investors, and patent attorneys. We serve as an external service provider and support existing teams.

Out in the field or in our studio; we see practical experience both as an important touchstone and as a source of inspiration.

VirtualorPhysical

Using modern software and hardware (CAD, virtual reality, 3D printers, laser cutters) is second nature to us. We create physical prototypes as early as possible. The earlier we hold a product in our hands, the more we can improve it over short iterations. We identify and significantly reduce risks at an early stage of a project.

Our CAD models are fully parametric. We create ready-to-use geometries for our customers to start production. This is the shortest way from virtual models to physical products.

DesignerorEngineer

We have interdisciplinary training and we have deepened our knowledge of both fields over many years working on numerous projects. We can develop your product for you from start to finish; from the initial sketches, renderings, material and colour selection, CAD modelling, mock-ups, and prototypes, to supplier and assembly support.

We realize large projects in cooperation with our clients, partners, and suppliers.

InventedorReinvented

Confidentiality is a basic prerequisite for our line of work. This is why we pre-screen project inquiries for possible conflicts of interests with our existing clients.

We have contributed to numerous patent and design applications. If new inventions are made during development, we can support our clients in investigating whether a patent application or design protection makes sense.

Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Erfindergeist 1
Christian Keller
Dipl. Ing. (FH) System Engineering - Mechanics and Manufacturing // Dipl. Design Engineer FHZ

Both creative and technically minded, Christian never wanted to choose between his passion for design and his dedication to technology. Instead, he mastered both fields and utilizes them as a multi-award-winning professional inventor. Christian has more than 20 years of experience during which he has contributed to numerous development projects.

Erfindergeist GmbH Erfindergeist GmbH
Erfindergeist
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A conversation is the quickest way to find out if your business can benefit from our service. We would be pleased to give you more insight into our work.

Call us, send us an email or visit us in on the Swiss shore of Lake Constance in Goldach, in the border triangle of Switzerland, Germany and Austria.

Erfindergeist GmbH | Steighaldenstrasse 4 | 9404 Rorschacherberg | Schweiz
info@erfindergeist.ch | +41 79 573 83 40

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