ASSA ABLOY LEVEL & Takara Tomy Model Cars: A Surprisingly Perfect Fit for Precision & Innovation

New Haven, CT – October 26, 2023 – You might be scratching your head – ASSA ABLOY LEVEL, a company known for advanced locking solutions and access control, partnering with Takara Tomy, the famous Japanese toy maker behind incredibly detailed model cars? It sounds weird, right? But stick with us, because there's actually a really cool connection, and it speaks volumes about the future of precision engineering and quality control. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL LLC, located right here in New Haven at 110 Sargent Dr, is a global leader in providing security solutions. We’re talking everything from high-security locks for facilities to electronic access control systems that keep buildings safe and streamlined. For years, we've been dedicated to crafting solutions that are reliable, durable, and, frankly, incredibly precise. We need things just right. A tiny imperfection in a lock mechanism can be a big problem. You can reach us at 318-618-7610 if you're curious. So, what do super-detailed miniature cars have to do with it? Well, it turns out Takara Tomy's model cars – think meticulously crafted die-cast vehicles with functioning parts and incredible realism – represent a similar level of dedication to precision. These aren't your grandpa’s old Hot Wheels. We're talking about cars with working suspensions, opening doors, detailed engines, and paint jobs that look like the real deal. Seriously, they're tiny masterpieces. Here's where it gets interesting. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL has been quietly using Takara Tomy model cars – specifically, the Tomica line – as an internal benchmark for quality control and process improvement. “Look, we’re dealing with incredibly tight tolerances in our security hardware,” explains Sarah Chen, a Lead Engineer at ASSA ABLOY LEVEL. “A millimeter can mean the difference between a secure lock and one that’s vulnerable. We needed a way to visualize and assess our manufacturing processes, and frankly, the detail and consistency of these Tomica cars were astonishing. It's a weird thing to say, but they helped us up our game." The idea came from a surprising source – a team-building exercise. Employees were encouraged to bring in items that represented quality or engineering they admired. Several engineers brought in Takara Tomy cars, noting the flawless paint application, seamless assembly, and the sheer level of detail crammed into such a small space. “We started asking ourselves, ‘How do they do that?’” says Mark Johnson, head of Operations. “It sparked a conversation about our own processes. We realized we could learn a lot from how Takara Tomy approaches manufacturing, particularly in terms of consistency and attention to detail." ASSA ABLOY LEVEL began using the model cars as a visual aid during quality control training. Engineers were tasked with identifying potential flaws – things like misaligned parts, uneven paint, or inconsistencies in assembly. The level of detail on the Tomica cars made it easy to spot even the smallest imperfections, helping engineers develop a more discerning eye. But it went further than just visual inspection. The company also began using the model cars as a “test case” for its own advanced measurement and testing equipment. By scanning and analyzing the cars with high-precision scanners and 3D modeling software, ASSA ABLOY LEVEL engineers were able to evaluate the performance of their equipment and refine their measurement techniques. “We were basically putting the Tomica cars through the same rigorous testing procedures as our own security hardware,” explains Chen. “It allowed us to fine-tune our equipment and ensure that we were getting accurate and reliable measurements.” The results have been impressive. ASSA ABLOY LEVEL has seen a significant improvement in its quality control processes, leading to fewer defects and a more consistent product. The company has also been able to streamline its manufacturing processes and reduce waste. “It’s been a bit of a fun, unexpected journey,” says Johnson. “Who would have thought that miniature cars could help us improve our security solutions? But it just goes to show that you can learn from anywhere, even from a toy.” While ASSA ABLOY LEVEL isn't officially partnering with Takara Tomy, they’ve become unofficial fans. They continue to use the model cars as an internal benchmark for quality and are exploring other ways to leverage the company's expertise in precision manufacturing. “We’re always looking for ways to improve,” says Chen. “And sometimes, the best ideas come from the most unexpected places.” So, the next time you see a beautifully crafted Takara Tomy model car, remember that it might just be helping to keep your building a little bit safer. It’s a quirky connection, sure, but it highlights the importance of precision, quality, and a willingness to learn from anywhere – even the world of collectible toys. And who knows, maybe we’ll see ASSA ABLOY LEVEL collaborating with Takara Tomy on a limited-edition, ultra-secure miniature vehicle in the future. Now that would be something.