Elrika Van Heerden Email & Phone Number

Zoetermeer, Zh, Nl

Zoetermeer, South Holland, Netherlands

Freelancing for clients from across the world: • Waterloo Technical Instruments (2021 - 2023) Mechanical Designer – Developed innovative product designs tailored to meet client specifications, focusing on both functionality and aesthetic appeal. – Conducted design for manufacturability (DFM) analysis to optimize designs for cost-effective production, ensuring high-quality outcomes. – Led prototyping by outsourcing to partners for 3D printing and CNC machining to create accurate prototypes for testing. – Collaborated with mechanical and electrical engineers to translate design concepts into manufacturable products, ensuring seamless integration of components. – Managed the full product lifecycle, from initial concept through to product launch, including ongoing support and iterations based on market feedback. – Conducted market research to stay abreast of industry trends and to inform the design of cutting-edge products that meet market demands. • SHYFT Power Solutions (2021) Industrial Designer – Designed enclosures for IoT hardware solutions for intelligent energy management, optimizing for both functionality and user experience. – Developed and tested enclosure prototypes for energy monitoring devices, ensuring reliability in harsh and varied environmental conditions typical in emerging markets. – Conducted design for manufacturability (DFM) analyses to streamline the production process and reduce costs while maintaining high product quality. – Engaged in market research to align product designs with customer needs and industry trends. – Participated in the iteration of product designs based on user feedback and performance data to continually improve product offerings.

Cape Town Area, South Africa

• Conceptualized and developed innovative product designs, ensuring a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and manufacturability.• Created detailed 3D models and photorealistic renderings using SolidWorks and Fusion360 to visualize product concepts and facilitate stakeholder approval.• Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including engineers and production specialists, to refine designs for mass production, focusing on cost-efficiency and ease of manufacturing.• Designed and constructed jigs and fixtures to streamline manufacturing and assembly processes, improving efficiency and reducing production time.• Produced detailed technical drawings and specifications for use in prototyping and manufacturing, ensuring all products met quality and safety standards.• Utilized rapid prototyping techniques, including 3D printing, to quickly iterate and validate design concepts before full scale production.• Conducted research on materials, manufacturing processes, and market trends to inform design decisions and maintain competitive advantage.• Managed multiple design projects simultaneously, adhering to strict deadlines and budget constraints.

Centurion, South Africa

• Utilized advanced CAD software, such as SolidWorks, to create detailed 3D models and technical drawings for complex vacuum forming molds.• Designed and optimized molds specifically for vacuum forming processes, ensuring high-quality and consistent production outcomes.• Developed modular add-ons using laser cutting, and CNC machining for the finishing of vacuum formed products.• Collaborated closely with engineers and production teams to ensure molds were optimized for manufacturability, focusing on efficiency and durability.• Creation of mold designs that facilitated ease of use and improved production workflows.• Managed multiple mold design projects simultaneously, delivering high-quality results within tight timelines and budget constraints.• Produced detailed documentation and technical specifications to support the mold manufacturing process and ensure compliance with industry standards.