When you want a marketing and promotional model that's so realistic your customers will try to operate it, then you need to speak to us!

This is exactly what happened when we worked on a project for Sony Professional. They asked us to produce a prototype of an instant print photo kiosk for customer acceptance trials prior to the manufacture of the final product.

The photo kiosk is for shoppers to upload and print their own digital photos, with an additional option for retailers to operate it as either a stand-alone unit or a countertop kiosk serving multiple printers, if preferred.

The model was unveiled at the recent Photokina international trade fair to much acclaim.

Gary Andrews, Product Manager for Sony Europe said of Ogle: "Sony Design Centre Europe have used Ogle for several consumer projects in the past. However, this B2B project differed in many aspects that presented different challenges. Ogle were able to deliver a model so realistic that during acceptance trials customers actually tried to insert memory cards and operate it! The quality and service offered by Ogle was excellent."

A Pinnacle in architectural model making

From the Burj Al Arab, Dubai and the National Aquatics Centre (Water Cube), Beijing to the Millennium Dome, London and the Ryugyong Hotel, North Korea, architecture is full of industry highs and lows.

A new high is scheduled for completion in 2010-2011.

The innovative design, from Kohn Pedersen Fox, is located at Bishopsgate, London, named the Pinnacle, is aiming for new heights. Set to be the tallest building in the UK and one of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe, at 945ft, is now under construction.

But getting a project like this off of the ground (no pun intended) is no easy feat.

Models are an integral part of the design process at KPF and the design of the Pinnacle presented their model makers with quite a technical challenge.

They didn't hesitate in choosing Ogle Models and Prototypes. Ogle have a client list boasting some of the biggest and best companies in the world, and a reputation for perfection.

Neil Merryweather, at KPF, who has had a long relationship with Ogle and knows their expertise and experience, says "I had no doubt that they could meet our expectations. It wasn't easy, but they didn't disappoint".

Because of their size, architectural models need to be scaled down by a factor of hundreds in order to show the how the building will look in context with its surroundings.

It wasn't just a simple process of resizing the CAD model of the whole building. This would have resulted in reducing component parts to dimensions too fine, even for the rapid prototyping processes available at Ogle.

Ogle worked closely with KPF ensuring the CAD models created were practical, from a technical point of view.

They needed to ensure the models had no bad edges, no flipped triangles, no gaps and that all surfaces have a thickness. All the separate elements of the model then needed a Boolean operation to reduce the model to one shell. This ensures there are no build issues on the RP machines.

KPF chose to use Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) to build the core of the model. This offered all the support required during the build process, whilst keeping costs and time of the project down.

Stereolithography (SLA) was used for the stepped glazing skin. A lacquer was applied to reduce discolouring of the resin, which occurs in sunlight, this also enhances the clarity. An alternative material was considered to avoid this problem but, due to time and budget constraints, it wasn't possible.

The model Ogle produced has helped to bring KPF's vision to life. It has provided a glimpse of what is expected to be an outstanding architectural building of the future. Now we just have to wait for the real thing!

Ogle Models and Prototypes is proud to have worked with one of the largest privately-owned construction firms in the UK. With a portfolio littered with prestigious projects such as the Channel Tunnel and the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, this is one client that pushes the boundaries.

Any innovative firm striving for new development and a desire to be ahead of the game doesn't need to go further than Ogle. With the latest, cutting edge technology they can create stunning models of any vision, building or otherwise.

This particular client wanted a model of a domestic building they were constructing in the Hyde Park area. The building consisted of five apartments, a swimming pool and three underground stories, including a lorry park and a lift. They knew the model wasn't going to be easy, so they drafted in Ogle to ensure the best job possible was done.

Each model was built as an individual part using Primepart, a nylon sintering material. Considerations were needed on wall thickness to ensure the model was stable. And, in order to reduce the size of parts from the full scale drawings, they were split up into the appropriate sections. Each part was then re-designed to include stronger sections where the wall thicknesses were too thin to build on the SLS process.

Once the model was constructed, the parts were fitted together and sprayed with white primer. The architectural model was then mounted onto a Perspex plate and is being used internally to communicate any issues that need to be looked at with the new build.

As an organisation with a great track record, full of skill and expertise in these technologies, Ogle provided the help and support needed. Their patience and knowledge was invaluable and the result was a first in architectural models for their client.

The project was a learning curve for both teams, but together they overcame problems and pushed the technology to its limits.

From carry cases to dispensers and cable clamps to food containers, designers have used living hinges to their advantage for over 40 years. It's nothing new.

But as businesses battle to be more competitive, consolidation and assembly minimisation is the name of the game. This has created a renewed interest in this design gem.

But the drive to improve hasn't bypassed the living hinge either. Under scrutiny too, its capability is being tested to the limits.

One company responsible for this is Ogle Models and Prototypes. With a new Rapid Prototyping Centre of Excellence, they have invested in the latest Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) machinery. The accuracy of this equipment, and the wealth of experience and knowledge Ogle has, allows them to create living hinges to rival any other.

It's no secret that only certain injection molding materials are flexible enough to support the amount of bending required in a living hinge. The best are polyethylene and polypropylene. But with an unmatched skill set, Ogle offers SLS with post treatment as a prototyping solution.

After months of testing, they now have the formula to create a strong living hinge, to last.

However, as with any innovation, the living hinge does have limitations. There needs to be a discussion about the form of the hinge. The best ones are flat in design and built flat in SLS for best life and function. This may mean a compromise with other aspects of your model.

But whatever your requirement, Ogle will assess your design using their knowledge and expertise to overcome any obstacles; living hinges or not!

Being one step ahead in this day and age is increasingly difficult. It used to be the case you could create, through design or innovation, a unique sales point for your business that would set you apart from your competitors. But these days, any advantage is short lived. With technology moving at hyper-speed, any USPs you may have can be recreated in competing brands practically overnight.

Ogle understand time and quality is of the essence when keeping your business in front, particularly when you're creating new products or improved elements for existing ones. And these are just a couple of the reasons why they are launching their new Rapid Prototyping Centre of Excellence.

As a benchmark for 21st century progression, the new centre is a catalyst for future development of one of the best companies within the model making and rapid prototyping industry. With the introduction of new equipment and more efficient working practices, Ogle's offering for your business just got even better.

More than doubling the sq. footage of the existing operation to 20,000 sq ft, Ogle now has more space to adapt to your model making needs and work on larger projects. The substantially sized extension facilitates a larger transportation model shop (this is the 2nd stage of the development planned for 2009), an expansion of the paint and finishing shop and independent areas for SLA and SLS and Vac Casting.

The development has also seen the introduction of two brand new, cutting-edge, rapid prototyping machines; the EOS P730 and the Formiga P100.

The EOS P730 SLS provides up to 40% increased productivity and is the only worldwide double laser system for laser sintering plastics. This enhances Ogles ability to produce prototypes , small series and individualised production parts far more economically. Not only that, but products with complex geometries can be created to a far higher specification. The build chamber is 700mm x 380x 580mm with a resolution of 0.12mm.

As the second new kid on the block, the Formiga P100 has a build envelope of 200m x 250mm x 330mm and a fine resolution of 0.1mm. And, it has the ability to produce plastic products with much better surface finish and accuracy than has been possible up to now, from polyamide (including flame retardant nylon) directly from CAD data.

With fast turnaround times the new machines integrate perfectly into the environment in which Ogle perform, providing you with the best prototypes or RM parts in the quickest possible time.

With over 50 years' experience within the industry and a wide variety of services under one roof, its no surprise that Ogle's clients consist of some of the largest blue chip organisations in the UK, such as Bentley, Glaxo Smith Kline and many of the best Design Consultancies.

Ogle know that paying attention to the finer details is paramount and that the models they produce can easily be mistaken for the real things. With a mixture of conventional model making utilizing a large in-house CNC capability and the latest cutting edge technology in their new centre, Ogle can bring you the ultimate in 21st Century product development.

Rally - a frantic race against the clock.

In a sport designed to test the endurance of man and machine to the limit, the smallest things can make all the difference.

In a continuous effort to get that competitive edge, one autosport team looked at reducing the weight of their machine. Having previously used aluminium components and composite tooling for under bonnet parts, they considered changing to plastics; using SLS parts for the air inlet catch tank and head breather.

To develop these parts, the team needed a rapid prototyping company. And they didn't have to look far. Ogle Models and Prototypes have a reputation as one of the best in the business.

With Ogle's knowledge and extensive experience in prototype manufacture, they were able to look at the parts and select the best materials and processes for development that reflected the car's demanding requirements.

Following the completion and installation of the prototypes, the team then put them through a rigorous endurance and reliability test. During seven days in Europe, the car clocked up an impressive 2000km.

The SLS parts were a roaring success and the team are now using Ogle Models as a development and rapid manufacturing partner for the future; ensuring they have the best possible chance of crossing that finish line first!

Rising global warming and 25 million cars in the UK alone.

Someone needs to think about it; who would have thought it would be a car company.

Toyota have consistently designed and produced cars with the environment in mind. 2008 is no exception; the Toyota Yaris has been named 'Green Car of the Year 2008'. But now Toyota is going a step further. They want to make their whole process eco-friendly; even their showrooms.

With this type of innovative thinking and quality it's no wonder they turned to Ogle Models and Prototypes to create the prototype of their showroom of the future.

Even under challenging conditions and deadlines, Ogle pride themselves on delivering the highest quality models and prototypes in the industry. The Toyota car showroom was no exception.

Ogle were able to start production for Toyota with only the overall dimensions of the car showroom to work to. While waiting for specific data, Ogle sourced materials to be used such as LED lights, trees, electric motors and even made light boxes to achieve the best lighting.

The lighting for the model was a priority for Toyota. The layout consisted of different areas to show pollution, energy, health and well-being. Therefore, on top of making the light boxes, Ogle created buttons on pods. These fixed to a stand around the raised layout model, which could be pressed to light the different areas.

To create the dynamic lighting, light boxes were fitted to 8mm MDF and the base of the building was made from Perspex. This allowed the different coloured LEDs to shine through.

The entire model was set on a base of 18mm MDF. Ogle used a full size printed layout for wall sections and overall sizes. The wall sections were made from 6mm ABS and Perspex, and then screwed together. Ogle's team, known as the best finishers in the industry, then painted both the interior and exterior. The end result - a dazzling and functional miniature car showroom.

Thanks to Ogle's design and manufacturing expertise, this prototype will be used to promote Toyota's vision of sustainable mobility and minimal environmental impact.

A cruise is one of those things that is on everyone's to do list before they shuffle of this mortal coil. The idea of lounging on the deck under the Caribbean sun, fine dining and island hopping appeals to most everybody's indulgent side.

A cruise is a way to get away from it all. Cruise-liner guests rightly expect not to worry about getting there and back safe and sound.

Consequently, luxury cruise liners are fitted with the latest navigational equipment to ensure the safe passage of both guests and crew.

One of the most frequently used navigational equipment manufacturers is design and manufacture leader Kelvin Hughes. Supplier of marine navigational systems and navigational data to both merchant marine and naval marketplace. They have fitted systems to ships and yachts all over the world, including prestigious vessels such as the Queen Mary 2.

So when a new and innovative system was needed to be trialed, Kelvin Hughes looked no further than model and prototype leaders Ogle. It would be tested on both land and sea before it was put into production and placed on the boats.

Ogle's brief was to come up with a suitable production method for the casings and tracker balls, which would form one of the interfaces on the navigational screen.

Ogle who are renowned for working with blue chip companies such as Kelvin Hughes, Virgin and SmithKlaxoKline, have always taken great consideration when undertaking any projects. They research and understand designs before they even begin to create a model. Critical dimensions are taken and features are studied to ensure they get it right.

This stickling for detail reduces the time spent on adaptations in the long run and will eventually save you money.

Due to the size of each set and the quantity required, Ogle decided to produce the cases in a PU material, this would give prototypes both strength and flexibility.

Once Ogle had received the data from Kelvin Hughes, they decided to use the RIM (Reactive Injection Moulding) process. Mould tools needed to be designed and then machines out of PU modelboard BM5460. This was then imported into the Visions CAM system where cutter paths were generated. This allowed Ogle to load 5 of their CNC machines with material and make the first rough cut. They then attached smaller cutters 6mm, giving further detailing and a surface finish.

The separate parts were hand finished and assembled using clamps, this ensured that the sides of the tool did not fall apart once the PU (Polyurethane) had been injected.

Ogle maintained contact with Kelvin Hughes throughout the project ensuring at all times that both parties were satisfied with the progress.

As ever, adjustments had to be made along the way, but before these were made Ogle liaised with the client and test fitted some of the internal parts and the internal screen.

The release of the first part proved to be more challenging than first anticipated, but the team managed. They made some minor modifications and were soon able to start casting parts.

Finally an RF shielding coat (radio frequency electromagnetic radiation) was applied internally; this is to avoid any interference with electrical signals. Followed by a primer coat and an external 2 pack cellulose paint. They had, by this time, already developed a colour to the clients specification, which was used to paint with.

The casings and tracker balls will join the ever growing list of latest innovations from Kelvin Hughes. And for Ogle it will be yet another state of the art prototype that will go on to make history. They will soon be launched into yachts and ships all over the world. Ensuring yachtsman and crew can claim a first place with Kelvin Hughes new navigational system.

If you like the feel of the wind in your hair, but are concerned about the volatility of the UK climate, then a hardtop convertible may just be what you're looking for. In the past you'd have to pay top dollar to enjoy the privilege of owning such a car. Niche models such as the Lexus SC, Mercedes-Benz SL and SLK, Cadillac XLR were the only worthy hardtops on the market. However, thankfully, things have changed.

Now, the market has opened up and you can find new, less expensive versions available from automotive producers, such as Nissan.

When you are looking for a car that is crafted on quality and reliability then you can't go wrong with a Nissan. Having produced vehicles since 1933 this is a company that isnt short of experience. With a diverse range,encompassing anything from sporty coupes to SUVs, the Nissan family of vehicles offers something for everyone. And they have recently introduced the new Nissan Micra CC convertible; a hardtop with the functionality and style to rival any car in the same market.

A model of the new Nissan made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, with the help of Ogle Models and Prototypes.

Approached by Nissan early this year to help complete the model, Ogle had been given quite a task. The creation of the car involved new front and rear bumpers and sills, plus re-trimming and painting of existing parts. For the creation of the new parts Ogle were given the full surface data; they did a number of trial-run data transfers before the final data for machining was released.

Ogle had to engineer and build the car to meet Nissan Design Europes (NDE) specification and the contents of the Bill of Materials. NDE supplied Ogle with a donor vehicle, along with new mirrored glass and lamp parts. Ogle were required to work on the interior and exterior.

They had to shape new sill parts, which included new chrome finishes. In order to do this they had to cut away part of the metal sills on the vehicle and strengthen them, before the new sills could be fitted on top.

They produced new front and rear bumpers, which were made to include chrome finishes, and the exterior was painted in a high-quality show-car finish as specified by the NDE colour studio. This involved a two tone colour scheme and additional detailing.

All exterior glass required a tinted-mirrored finish; they had to remove all the glass and replace it with supplied glass. They re-finished unassembled production parts for the headlamps and tail-lamps and had to make two alternative sets of new wheels. One set was made to optimum show condition; for static viewing only. And the other set was made robust enough for tyres to be fitted and for the car to be driven safely at speeds up to 30mph.

To complete the interior they had to re-trim the instrument panel front pad, door-trims, steering-wheel and seats. They also fitted newly supplied seat belts, ensuring they were fully functional and repainted, with various finishes, vents, buttons, gearshift-knob,handbrake, etc.

The completed model was produced in time and on budget and was well received at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It is now visiting specific locations for photography and filming and the wheels are in motion for production.

With its debut at the Nagano Olympics in 1998, competitive snowboarding has taken off. This is a sport not for the faint hearted, but for the adrenaline junkies among us. Whether it's Boardercross, Slalom, Slopestyle, Big Air or Half Pipe the action is wild and the manoeuvres each year become increasingly difficult.

For those who like to carve it up on the pistes the Snowboarding season is fast approaching. And, with competitive snowboarders continuously pushing the limits, the challenge to produce equipment to aid these dare devils is ever growing.

RuRoC approached Curventa, an award winning product development company, to produce technically advanced headwear to protect the snowboarders on the circuit. Their latest design of helmet provides the safety, flexibility and style competitors demand.

The paint on the outer shell of the headgear can stand up to -40°C; this is the equivalent of being outside in the Antarctic in the dead of winter. But if the riders are in far warmer climates and don't require the full mask on the helmet, it is detachable. This provides the flexibility they want.

In order to bring this cutting edge design to life, a prototype had to be produced. So, Curventa approached Ogle Models and Prototypes; as a company that always produce exceptional models, which can be mistaken for the real thing, why would they go anywhere else.

The helmet required a series of parts to be made, including goggles, mask, lower and upper shells and left and right mask clip. Ogle completed the project using Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) for the hard parts and Stereolithography (SLA) then Vacuum Casting, using silicon tools, for the clips and softer parts.

Both SLA and SLS are 3D manufacturing processes. SLS uses an Argon laser to draw the part, one slice at a time onto finely powdered nylon, whilst melting the layers together to form a solid component. The process is fully self-supporting, allowing for parts to be built within other parts with complex geometry that simply couldn't be built any other way, giving you complete freedom of design.

SLA uses a solid state laser to draw the model one layer at a time onto a resin. Once the complete part is formed by this process the part is cleaned of excess resin by immersion in a chemical bath and then cured in a specialist oven.

Once the project had been machined, dimensional checks were carried out. When Ogle was satisfied with the accuracy the parts went through to their on-site paint shop. Now, being known as one of the best finishers in the industry, Ogle has a reputation to keep. So, after lots of hard, hand finishing, they applied a high gloss paint finish and then a durable lacquer to produce the perfect model.

This helmet is set to take the snowboarding world by 'snow' storm and the next time you see it, it'll no doubt be accompanied by a snowy backdrop and an adrenaline junkie's head.

Unafraid of any challenge, Richard Branson has spread the Virgin brand from airlines and railways to bridal wear and cosmetics. For a man that craves excitement and new frontiers, it was hardly a surprise when he decided to tackle space as well.

With the decision to turn space travel into a consumer experience, the spacecraft to make it possible needed to be created. Virgin Galactic, as it's called, has been designed to carry up to eight people to sub-orbit the Earth, being able to fully experience zero gravity. Tickets for the out of this world trip are a cool $200,000.00.

To show off the experience, a replica of the spacecraft is currently on a promotional tour; having already visited the science museum and Dubai, it is now being exhibited at the Leicester Space Centre from Wednesday 1st August until 17th September. The model of the interior was originally produced on a Hollywood movie set, within a trailer. The model created was phenomenal. As a company that always demands the best and has the highest standards, Virgin felt it needed a few adjustments before it continued the tour.

Striving to create a model out of this world, Virgin and Seymour Powell didn't need to look any further than Ogle Models and Prototypes. They have a reputation in the industry as the best in the business and haven't disappointed yet. So, when the spacecraft landed in their 13,000 square foot facility the space race was on.

Under tight deadlines, Ogle remade all of the porthole windows. This is how customers will view the spectacular show of their journey, so they are a fundamental feature of the spacecraft.

Not only this, but they also sanded down and repainted the shell, removed and replaced the floor, repaired and repainted damage on the walls and corrected the fitting problems. Finally, they re-sprayed (in soft-touch, suede-effect paint) the seats. These seats are fully reclinable; what did you expect for $200,000.00?

Ogle finished the project in the allotted time and the cabin interior could easily be mistaken for the real thing.

When Richard Branson succeeds with this new venture, Ogle will become one of the few chosen companies who can say they helped to achieve the final frontier.

Download 'Unusual design solutions prototyped by Ogle' to see how the trickiest of design problems can be avoided.

Download 'State-of-the-art design brought to life' to see how Ogle created the perfect model for Electrolux's new design.

Pollution is directly affecting our everyday lives. Proof of this is clearly shown in the rising numbers of asthma sufferers and changing weather conditions. But what exactly are we doing to make a difference? Other than the controversial congestion charges, there doesn't appear to be any visible evidence that something is being done to combat this very serious environmental damage.

Now here's the science bit...

Some of the culprits to pollution are nitrogen oxides, which are produced by vehicles and power plants, causing smog and contributing to global warming. These pollutants can be extremely difficult and expensive to remove from the air we breathe, but one solution has been designed to help prevent the problems we are experiencing.

In the late 1970's, a chemical compound was discovered to absorb and neutralise pollutants when combined with small amounts of daylight and humidity. This chemical has now been incorporated into paint and trials are currently being conducted to see how it reacts when painted onto buildings and public paved areas. However, flat surfaces such as these are not the most effective structure for natural light to be captured, which is essential to neutralise the pollutants.

One company has created a solution that makes the most of the surfaces onto which this paint is coated. Elegant Embellishments designed tiles resembling a honeycomb effect which, when covered in the paint, can be positioned near pollution sources in urban areas. The random geometry of the tiles maximises surface area to catch natural light better than flat surfaces. More than just an accessory, the tiles also transform an invisible process into a public reminder that the area is a safer place to breathe. Communities can directly see how their environments are being cared for.

Elegant Embellishments needed a prototype to convey their unique product to be displayed at a prestigious architectural conference, involving thousands of members of the public and many high profile names and organisations. For this significant event, they were referred to Ogle Models and Prototypes, who have made many demanding, revolutionary designs come to life.

Ogle was able to help create the innovative prototype in the short time before the occasion. Allison Dring, Director of Elegant Embellishments said, "The team at Ogle were incredibly generous with their time and expertise at a critical point in our project for the London Architecture Biennale. With their assistance, facilities and advice, we were able to produce working prototypes of our product; a fundamental contribution to our business."

Ogle showed Elegant Embellishments how to professionally cast their tiles and demonstrated their many operations, including Stereolithography, Selective Laser Sintering and CNC machining. Their attention to accuracy, detail and finish is why renowned companies are taking their ground-breaking designs to Ogle.