Merlin magics up CCTV van power solution
Merlin Power has reported the recent completion of a high-profile project for the public sector, delivering a customised standalone power system for a CCTV van.
The project, which originally called for eight hours of continuous power, was expanded to provide up to 24 hours of power with minimal additional cost, says the company.
The client required a reliable power solution to sustain the CCTV van’s surveillance equipment for at least eight hours while stationary.
This was an issue, says Merlin Power, as it meant that split charging – typically relying on the vehicle’s engine to run and charge auxiliary batteries – was not a viable option due to the long periods of inactivity expected.
However, during the design review, Merlin Power not only discovered a solution, but also identified the potential to enhance the system’s performance, proposing an upgrade to 24 hours of continuous operation with minimal cost increases. This improved solution was quickly approved by the client, and design work commenced immediately.
Key components of the system were developed from scratch using SolidWorks, allowing for sign-off at every stage and enabling swift procurement of parts. From the van’s arrival at Merlin’s workshop to final delivery, the project was completed in just four weeks – delivering on the tight schedule agreed upon in the project brief.
“We’re proud to have delivered a system that not only met, but exceeded the client’s needs,” said Simon Williams, technical director at Merlin Power.
“This project is a perfect example of our commitment to providing innovative, cost-effective solutions that exceed client expectations.”
The company has also recently launched a new specialist vehicle preparation facility.
Low volume, complex specialist vehicles are often a problem for fleet managers, it explains: vehicle builders find it difficult to achieve complex installs due to a skills shortage. and low volume means that opportunity costs outweigh financial gain. Therefore, fleet managers are frequently left with vehicles that fall short of operational and reliability requirements.
A perfect solution to this is Merlin’s new Vehicle Preparation Service, it says. With a brand new, purpose built workshop in Exeter, the company is able to provide design, prototype and fit-out of command units, surveillance, RRV, ARV, military and other specialist vehicles.
State-of-the-art facilities and techniques allow Merlin to rapidly fulfil customer demand, the firm adds. Recent successes include rapid deployment of covert vehicles for the Metropolitan Police, air-defence power systems for urgent operational requirements, council CCTV vehicles and police traffic camera vans.
With 30 years of experience in defence contracting, Merlin cites its process driven approach and an emphasis on quality and longevity, as well as rapid production capacity without compromising on quality. Its work is covered by a five-year warranty.
Core competences include the design and build of specialist vehicles; electrical and electronic system design and install; systems integration; mechanical design and build; and integration of third-party systems and sub-components.
