LAIKA Autoblaster
Transforming a prototype into a production-ready tool.
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LAIKA, a feature film animation studio, came to Sigma Design with a CNC-controlled spray booth concept that had strong potential — but required some additional support to improve reliability, ergonomics and performance, optimized for their high precision workflow.
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Challenge Accepted
Our team was asked to take this proof-of-concept and transform it into a system that was robust, safe, ergonomic, and production-ready. This meant addressing mechanical, electrical, usability, and manufacturing issues while ensuring the customer could scale confidently.
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Solution
We redesigned the system - correcting wiring and electrical problems, redesigning the HMI for usability, adjusting the cabinet height for improved ergonomics, and significantly enhancing waterproofing, corrosion resistance, and overall reliability. We added a foot pedal to control manual spray functionality, automated the wiper controls, reduced overall weight for serviceability, made the system operable for both left- and right-handed users, and replaced key components with stainless steel for long-term durability. The control box was built to UL508a standards and throughout the project, the system was designed to facilitate scalable production.
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After completing the first unit, the HMI controller became obsolete. Rather than ship with an unsupported HMI, we sourced a new controller, developed a replacement interface, and retrofitted the first unit to match the updated design for production.
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Solution Details
Mechanical & Ergonomic Enhancements:
- Adjusted cabinet height for operator comfort
- Reduced system weight for easier service and mobility
- Added a foot pedal and automated wiper controls
- Enabled left- and right-handed operation
- Improved waterproofing
- Added corrosion resistance by using stainless steel components
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Electrical & Controls Improvements:
- Corrected poor wiring and electrical design
- Redesigned HMI interface for clarity, reliability, and ease of use
- Laser-etched labels for durability and readability
- Designed and built to UL508a standards
System Compatibility:
- CNC-controlled spray booth with linear axis and rotational capability
- Supports both automatic and manual operation
LAIKA came to us with a prototype that had a solid concept. Sigma Design was able to bring the project across the finish line, and the customer now has a robust, scalable, and operator-friendly CNC spray booth that dramatically improves efficiency and throughput.
The redesigned system reduces personnel requirements, enhances ergonomics, increases reliability, and provides the consistency needed for high-volume production, turning their prototype into a dependable, production-ready asset.
