Automotive Lead, Charpak Niall Johanson’s extensive experience in the Motorsport, high-performance engineering and automotive sectors spans over 4 decades. After a hugely successful career in F1 and WRC hydraulics and engine preparation, Niall now applies his expertise to develop new automotive technologies using thermoformed plastics.
This has particular relevance to engineers involved in power electronics, traction battery pack production and other fragile or critical components, especially when using robotised manipulation for all-round protection and fast assembly.
Supported by a team of technical design engineers the Charpak Automotive Division individually designs and manufactures product specific packaging on its state-of-the-art thermoforming machines. These technologies mean packaging is precision-engineered and manufactured to the same tolerances and accuracy as the components themselves. This breakthrough in precision-thermoformed packaging allows robotic manipulation to be carried out, without disturbing the end packaging, thus greatly improving efficiency. Ranging from improvements in line-speed, and reduced manual handling this ensures significant cost saving and hygienic benefits.
Charpak tailor-made protective packaging solutions include easy-pick and place components that are fully integrated into the supply chain dunnage and stillage. Designed to fit into standardised re-usable shipping containers this also optimises transport and distribution efficiencies.
The super-cleaned and recycled plastics are highly versatile to work within supply chain automated processes and existing outer packaging. Designed to reduce waste and increase efficiency, the lightweight protective packaging offers the benefits of multiple reuse and can be recycled at the end of its useful life, ready for re-manufacture into new products or packaging. Full traceability, accidental, atmospheric and corrosion protection is a given.
Creating circular and sustainable economies for the automotive, advanced engineering and electronics sectors, Niall can advise on the development of circular and closed-loop solutions, and the subsequent unique benefits in lowering environmental impacts, reducing costs, efficient stock handling, increasing manufacturing process efficiencies and greatly improved end-product reliability.