When an established product was threatened by rising procurement costs and supplier dependency, Essve needed to quickly develop its own installation tool for hidden deck fastening. Together with Svekon, a new patented solution was developed, focusing on ergonomics, user experience, and competitiveness. The new tool has quickly become a favorite among professionals.
Background
Since 1970, Essve has developed fastening products that have become staples in craftsmen’s toolboxes. The range includes installation tools and screws for deck building without visible screw heads, a so-called hidden deck system. After several years with the same supplier, a clear problem emerged: access to the tool was conditional on purchasing an expensive screw, which limited Essve’s freedom of action. To break this dependency, Essve turned to Svekon with the assignment to develop an entirely new installation tool.
The goal was to:
- Break dependency on a specific supplier
- Develop an in-house solution with clear technical and functional differentiation
- Improve ergonomics and efficiency in use
- Optimize the tool’s size and form for storage and transport
- Move more production closer to the Swedish market
- Reach production start within a timeframe of approximately 8–10 months
Assignment and approach
Essve was not looking for a single consultant resource, but rather a development partner capable of taking full responsibility for the entire project. Svekon was therefore tasked with the whole project and take charge of the development from idea to finished solution, including concept development, engineering, and industrialization. Essve contributed with requirements, rapid decision-making, and continuous feedback. The initial brief was to create an installation tool relatively similar to the existing one, but with certain improvements.
During development, Essve’s ambassadors were involved. These are experienced professionals who tested several prototypes in real projects and provided feedback for further development of both design and mechanics.
“This solution is of great strategic importance. Having our own unique and patented tool has given us the freedom to choose manufacturers and countries of production, as well as the ability to challenge pricing.”
Christofer Lindberg – Technical Manager, Essve
Hear Essve’s Technical Manager, Christofer Lindberg, and Svekon’s Business Development Director, Hampus Krantz, talk about the project and its results.
”It was an enjoyable flagship project in industrial design. We started broadly and developed many prototypes that were tested by demanding professional users.”
Mårten Andrén – Senior Industrial Designer, Svekon
SOLUTION WITH NEW FUNCTIONALITY AND IMPROVED ERGONOMICS
Early in the process, Svekon presented two directions: one solution more similar to the existing tool, and another with a more innovative form and mechanics. The latter concept was chosen, as it was perceived to offer a better user experience and also provided clearer differentiation in the market.
The new solution differs from the previous one in several key ways:
- The user locks the tool securely onto the board using a geometric locking mechanism instead of spring tension
- The user can release the tool and handle the screw more flexibly
- The design allows the user to support their hand and better balance body weight, reducing strain on the knees
The core of the innovation lies in the new fixing mechanism. A toggle (over-center) mechanism combined with spring force ensures a stable lock onto the board, while accommodating variations in the material — such as moisture, width, and expansion — without any play. The result is a compact and agile tool that enables more precise installation with consistent pressure.
Early conceptual sketches
INDUSTRIALIZATION – PRODUCTION AND SUPPLY CHAIN
In parallel with concept development, an active industrialization effort was carried out. Profile geometries were optimized, assembly steps were streamlined, and component choices were balanced against cost and robustness. Several rounds of prototyping were completed before the final design was established.
The design was also adapted to Essve’s brand aesthetic, with a more technical and tectonic expression compared to existing solutions – to create a product that signals quality and ages with dignity.
The ambition was fully Swedish manufacturing, and assembly still takes place in Sweden. However, for certain components, the strategy had to be adjusted: an extruded aluminum part was initially produced in Sweden but was later moved abroad due to shortcomings in delivery precision and quality. At the same time, the cost structure improved significantly without compromising quality.
Final digital prototype
RESULT
The result was a new installation tool that has strengthened Essve’s position in the market and created a more robust and long-term sustainable supply solution. The product is now patented, confirming that the solution is innovative and clearly differentiated from previously known alternatives — a direct result of Svekon’s ability to challenge, develop, and drive innovation together with the client. The project was carried out with strong control over budget and timeline, and today approximately 300 tools are produced each week.
