Analytical instruments are not normally mass-produced. How does this affect your design options?
ALEXANDER SCHLAG: It presents a particular challenge. Traditional manufacturing processes like injection moulding, while offering extensive design freedom, are not cost-effective for small production runs. For this equipment, we’re looking at quantities of a few dozen to a maximum of several hundred units. But because we started working with Bruker early on in the development process, we’re able to implement technically sound and elegant design solutions that are feasible for these smaller quantities. Bruker has been very proactive here.
The exterior design is based on the interplay of joints and surfaces. What was the thinking behind this?
ALEXANDER SCHLAG: Over the years, we’ve worked with Bruker to create a vibrant and evolving design language for their diverse product range, while also adapting designs over time. Despite their efficient design, the technology used in these instruments requires them to be large. We make them appear smaller and lighter by using carefully placed joints and seams to break up the exterior. These precise lines not only make the equipment look less bulky but also highlight the high-quality construction.
The equipment has no visible screws or glue joints. How did you achieve that?
ALEXANDER SCHLAG: We wanted to create seamless surfaces that give the device a streamlined appearance and are easy to clean. This also makes the equipment easy to maintain and allows it to be completely dismantled at the end of the product life cycle. What this means in practice is that we've eliminated all glue joints and joined all load-bearing internal components using screws concealed behind the external panels, most of which are magnetically fixed for easy, tool-free access.
Bruker operates in a highly specialised market with presumably little competition – yet the company still invests in design. Why?
ALEXANDER SCHLAG: Well, you can't make anything without some design input – and you can either choose to design well or badly. The financial investment for a high-quality design is small relative to the overall development costs. The most significant additional costs come from using superior materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. Our uncompromising standards for both product and design create a powerful synergy. While design is often used to suggest higher quality, that’s certainly not the case here.