Support from HIE ‘a significant step forward’ for Thurso engineering firm
A Caithness-based engineering firm is investing in new technology that will help increase business turnover and productivity while cutting carbon emissions.
Envision Engineering and Design has purchased a Leica Geosystems mobile 3D scanner after securing a £6390 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards the total cost of £21,300.
Founded in 2016, Envision has seen steady growth and now employs 6.5 full-time-equivalent mechanical engineers from its Thurso office.
The business offers design and engineering services and has clients throughout Scotland.
Using the latest equipment and software allows it to carry out site surveys, optioneering studies, concept design, 2D and 3D drawings, technical assessments and complex engineering calculations, including finite element analysis (FEA).
Its first 3D scanner, bought in 2018 with HIE support, allowed the business to develop its niche place in the market. The new Leica scanner will enable Envision to offer a broader range of services to existing and new clients.
It will be used to create 3D digital twin models of clients’ sites, providing them with walkthrough views and the ability to take measurements and manage assets remotely.
This will offer a significant reduction in carbon footprint, lowering internal costs and increasing productivity by cutting travel time to and from sites.
Alongside substantial carbon savings, use of the new equipment has helped the company achieve a six-figure increase in turnover and a 30 per cent boost in productivity within 12 months.
Hilary Budge, senior development manager with HIE’s Caithness and Sutherland team, said: “Envision is a valuable contributor to the Caithness economy and a crucial employer offering skilled jobs.
“This project is a great example of applying the latest technology to increase productivity and competitiveness while reducing carbon emissions.
“Strengthening the company’s position and resilience will help attract new talent, develop the advanced engineering sector in the north and boost confidence in the capacity of the wider supply chain. I’m delighted we have been able to support the project and look forward to continuing to work with the team at Envision.”
Stuart Anderson, operations director with Envision, said: “The support from HIE in purchasing the new equipment represents a significant step forward for Envision, creating new jobs and developing a highly skilled workforce. We are now poised to tackle even more complex challenges and are confident in securing new opportunities.”