Project Overview

A commercial marine operator required a complete redesign of the vessel’s dashboard and switch mounting plates to improve functionality, layout efficiency, and durability in a demanding marine environment.

The project involved designing a new dashboard layout, creating custom mounting plates for switches and instruments, and overseeing the full manufacturing process including anodising and screen printing. The goal was to deliver a robust, professional solution that enhanced usability while maintaining a clean, modern appearance suited for commercial marine operations.

The Challenge

The existing dashboard configuration had become outdated and inefficient. Switches and instruments were not optimally positioned, making operation less intuitive for crew members. Additionally, the existing mounting plates lacked consistency and were not designed with modern manufacturing or durability standards in mind.

Key challenges included:

• Designing an improved dashboard layout while working within the existing vessel structure

• Accurately measuring existing switch panels and mounting locations

• Creating precise CAD models to ensure compatibility with current equipment

• Ensuring all components were suitable for harsh marine environments

• Managing the manufacturing process to achieve high-quality finishing, including anodising and screen printing

The solution also needed to be delivered efficiently to minimise vessel downtime.

The Solution

A structured design and manufacturing process was implemented to deliver a tailored solution.

The project began with detailed measurements of the existing dashboard and switch mounting plates, ensuring all equipment locations and dimensions were accurately captured.

Using this data, new CAD models were created for custom mounting plates, allowing the layout to be refined for improved ergonomics and operational efficiency. The redesigned dashboard layout ensured switches and controls were logically grouped and easily accessible for operators.

Once the design was finalised, custom dashboard components and mounting plates were manufactured. The manufacturing process included:

• Precision fabrication of aluminium mounting plates

• Anodising to provide corrosion resistance and long-term durability in marine environments

• Screen printing for clear, permanent labelling of switches and controls

Following production, the new dashboard and panels were installed and presented for customer sign-off, ensuring the final result met operational requirements and expectations.

The Outcome

The completed dashboard system delivered a significant improvement in both functionality and visual presentation.

Benefits included:

• A modern, professional dashboard layout

• Improved operator usability through better switch organisation

• Durable, corrosion-resistant components designed for marine environments

• Clear, high-quality switch labelling for safer and more efficient operation

• A fully customised solution tailored to the vessel’s specific requirements

The client approved the final installation, confirming the system met all operational and aesthetic expectations.

Key Systems & Services

• Custom marine dashboard design

• Switch panel and mounting plate design

• CAD modelling and technical design

• Precision measurement of existing components

• Aluminium fabrication

• Marine-grade anodising

• Screen printing for switch labelling

• Installation support and customer sign-off