Engineering

The vertical configuration of the product line set the stage for VIDAR to deliver high performance competitive products that could be produced for less than most competitive units. The primary cost reduction driver was the elimination of film handling mechanisms.The design team also took great care in specifying materials and processes that could be economically produced in relatively small quantities, while maintaining design integrity. Driving down cost while not sacrificing performance, continues to be among the most significant engineering challenges. High quality electronics and optical components make up the majority of unit cost, and are relatively fixed in price. So keeping casework tooling and part costs low is a priority. The simplification/elimination of casework parts also paved the way for simple and rapid 2 hour final assembly. Size and weight targets for the Sierra also raised key design and engineering challenges. To stay small, the optical light path needed to be folded. The use of internal mirrors enabled the appropriate unit configuration and led to the use of a single aluminum extrusion for mounting of all critical components.