Products development

How a winning answer is conceived - From idea to prototype and final product

The market demands
The aquarium market is constantly developing. Enthusiasts demand products that are increasingly effective, easy to use and good looking. The filter is the most important technical instrument in an aquarium: it has the task of keeping the water healthy and clean for the well-being of plants and fish.
The market demands filters that are increasingly effective for cleaning and, at the same time, more compact and easier to use.
It also demands:
- more volume for the filtering material.
- the possibility of using different filtering materials to allow combined actions.
- adjustable flow
- adjustable direction
- the Venturi system to aerate the water
- underwater and horizontal operation
- a powerful, silent motor to guarantee years of operation working 24 hours a day.

The idea: a winning answer

The Askoll answer is better than expectations. The idea is a line of 4 filters with a flow of from 200 to 1000 litres per hour with all the requested features and also an innovative system for checking and visualising the level of dirt in the filter to simplify maintenance.
The feasibility study and prototyping

As for all new products, the technical office comes onto the scene in the second stage of the design. Askoll Due also examines a special collection chamber which prevents impurities falling back into the aquarium when the filter is dismantled for cleaning. It also looks into a completely new design that harmonises with the aquarium environment. Askoll Due then makes a prototype in association with Askoll Cinque and its rapid prototyping. This allows the product to be tested, the results checked and important fine-tuning made in very short time. The idea begins to take shape.
Under the microscope

Third stage: the: electromechanical and the biological laboratories subject the operation of the prototype to stiff testing. A normal procedure at Askoll Due: filters, pumps, heaters and all products must pass all tests with full marks: hydraulic and electrical tests, durability tests, tests in the tank with fish
The definitive design

We are now at the definitive design, the fourth stage. When it has been ascertained that the prototype satisfies all requirements, and the technical and cost objectives have been met, it is time for designing. Here, with the technical office, the certification office joins the scene. Functions and performance, cost, feasibility of moulds and tooling, manufacturing potential, possibility of further developments and applicable regulations are all examined. Every detail is studied and shared around all the company departments so that every possible problem can be anticipated and resolved.
Tooling and production

Investments get under way. Stage five sees supply factories of proven ability at work with Askoll. Moulds are made. Askoll is also ready to make any modifications that may be required during production: flexibility means knowing how to change, even at the most advanced stages.
Ok, the product is valid

Stage six: product validation. With the tooling ready, the product is approved by the appropriate laboratories: in this case electromechanical laboratory checks that all the requested functions and long-term reliability are provided, while the certification office conducts all the Italian and international product ratifications. Then, start with production.
All over the world

In houses all over the world! As the first products come off the moulds Quality Control comes onto the scene to instruct suppliers, check incoming parts and production, while also simulating use of the product by the user. At the same time, the Purchasing Department ensures the supply of all the materials needed so that production is always able to respond to the demands of the market. In the meantime our product has been named Acqua Ranger for the Italian market and given a precise image, from packaging to advertising. It can finally start bringing healthier conditions to thousands of aquariums and easier maintenance for enthusiasts. Success is guaranteed.