Aligning with Units 10, 12, and 17 of the Engineering courses at London Design and Engineering UTC, learners were set two exciting challenges by TVL Group. TVL Group, renowned for its expertise in vehicle security and accessories — particularly in the commercial vehicle sector — provided an industry context for these key curriculum areas.
The first challenge was to design and manufacture a desk tidy featuring TVL branding. Learners were tasked with creating a design tailored to TVL’s specific requirements, using Fusion Manufacturing for programming, and sharpening their skills in CAD, 3D printing, and CNC milling. The second challenge pushed learners further: conducting a design study to explore potential remodelling of TVL’s ArmourShell with the goal of achieving weight reduction and improved aerodynamic efficiency. Learners were also asked to complete a feasibility study using computer simulations to test and validate their design proposals. The ArmourShell bolts onto your van’s doors, securing them with a resilient bullet cylinder; it is designed to achieve the securest mount possible. Through these challenges, learners were able to work use key engineering programs in the context of two areas of TVL's business needs by creating a marketing product and refining one of their leading security products.
Curriculum Lead for Engineering, Mark, shared, “It’s a privilege to continue our partnership with TVL. Projects like this really stretch our learners and test the skills they’ll need in the engineering industry.”
Learner Mali commented, “I really enjoyed having an employer-led project that connects to the work we’re doing. We’ll be able to use this as evidence for our qualifications. It’s really cool to work on something that feels so relevant to our careers.”
After dedicating over 20 hours to these projects, learners had the opportunity to present their outcomes to Luke Powell and Aaron from TVL, who provided valuable feedback on their designs.
“This is our second year working with engineering learners from LDE, and it’s been fantastic to see their enthusiasm reflected in their innovative designs. Our feedback focused on key industry considerations like feasibility and cost of manufacture, helping them align their ideas with real-world expectations. The opportunity to collaborate with a business gave learners a valuable insight beyond the classroom. We were particularly impressed with their work on redesigning our AmourShell product—fresh perspectives led to genuinely creative and practical ideas,” Luke Powell, TVL.
