ITW-Berkel X-13 Slicer
Illinois Tool Works (ITW) and their Berkel division partnered with Design Integrity (DI) to develop the innovative X-13 food slicer platform from conception to completion, including first production and market launch. The new X-13 slicers were designed for manufacturing and assembly, and they broke new ground in several areas including cleanability, ease-of-use and construction.
Challenge
The Berkel division of Illinois Tool Works (ITW) approached Design Integrity with a plan for a new food slicer platform that would incorporate several industry-changing concepts along with aggressive cost and part reduction goals. DI was able to meet their goals and implement several innovative new features, including the first-ever one-piece polymer base and product table, a drop-in automatic slicing subassembly, and a patented variable slice thickness adjustment feature.
Solution
DI worked in cooperation with ITW and the team at Berkel to develop the new design. Several innovative features were incorporated into the new slicer line, such as the drop-in automatic slicing feature, the first-ever one-piece polymer base, and the gas-assist injection molded table and support arm. The indexing knob and operating controls were mounted outside the drip zone, another first in the industry, to deliver best-in-class cleanability.
Client Benefit
The new line of X-13 slicers met the project goals for part count reduction and manufacturing cost reduction. The auto-drive model exceeded sales expectations, and the line gave Berkel a reputation in the market as an innovative brand. ITW, Berkel and DI collaborated successfully on the program from kick-off through first production and market launch.
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