SATISFYING THE THIRST FOR THE PERFECT CUP – The South African Way.

Meet Henlo, the proudly South African premium commercial espresso machine that guarantees each shot pulled, thanks to ingenious design.

Henlo van der Westhuizen, a young entrepreneur with an ambitious vision for the future of coffee, has developed South Africa’s first premium commercial espresso machine that is on par with some of the world leaders in technology.

Leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) integration and years-long development effort, Henlo revolutionizes how we enjoy our daily cup of joe from our favorite coffee shop!

Not All Cups Are Equal

Henlo’s passion for the coffee shop experience led him to seek a better way of bringing perfect cups of espresso to customers.

He soon noticed that many commercial espresso machines used outdated 80s technology and were priced too high.

Determined to create a superior yet affordable machine, Henlo began his journey with an entrepreneurial business plan, searching for venture capitalists while studying Engineering at Stellenbosch University.

Building Smart Machines

Henlo aimed to craft an elegant espresso machine with premium technical features, without unnecessary additions, keeping maintenance costs low for both short- and long-term use.

Instead of reverse engineering, investors encouraged complete design and innovation that embodied ‘art and alternativism.’ This posed a unique challenge of creating a masterpiece displaying both artistic beauty and technological sophistication.

To achieve this, Henlo needed powerful CAD software with design capabilities and simulation features such as flow analysis and electrical routing, while controlling R&D costs. The software also needed to create accurate renderings of the customisable final product for presentations.

Henlo realised design adjustments had far-reaching implications. It was crucial to fine-tune components based on original designs, ensuring consistent improvements. The CAD software also needed to share parts-files with external parties who might not use the same software.

Finding the Perfect Partner

After assessing his needs, Henlo found SOLIDWORKS Premium 3D CAD to be the ideal software package. This powerful tool drastically cut the time required to create a working prototype.

Its feature-rich, easy-to-understand interface enabled faster work, delivering prototypes within months instead of years.

Using integrated solid 3D modeling and sheet metal and surface modeling for complex shapes, Henlo eliminated wasted time redrawing components or re-adding dimensions.

Design changes updated in real-time with a click of a button. The Premium 3D CAD package included electrical routing, which allowed Henlo to use a vast library of connectors and auto-routing features to simplify wiring and cable design.

Henlo utilised SOLIDWORKS Simulation and Flow Simulation to ensure his espresso machine designs were flawless. Running static analyses of components verified they met design standards and could handle expected external forces. This digital twin approach proved invaluable, increasing understanding while lowering prototyping costs.

Henlo leveraged SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation to ensure consistent coffee production. By simulating pressure, temperature, and flow rates, Henlo could make necessary design adjustments, ensuring perfect conditions for coffee extraction. Thermal flow simulation results were imported into static analysis to determine how temperature changes affected components.

With a manufacturable model and all parameters calculated, it was time to market the product. Using SOLIDWORKS Visualize Professional, Henlo created photo-realistic renderings without costly production processes. Realistic animations showcased the model from all angles, and custom designs could be modeled and rendered for fast approval before manufacturing commenced.

Henlo’s machines featured a telemetry system for comprehensive evaluation and reporting, helping businesses optimise their coffee-making operations. Accurate sensors tracked every detail, providing immediate feedback for baristas to improve their techniques. Advanced detection solutions identified losses of milk and beans, resulting in objective performance reports.

The Perfect Solution for the Perfect Cup

Henlo machines offer a reliable, low-cost solution for long-term operation with digitally controlled components, minimal heat loss, and whisper-quiet variable speed pumps.

With fewer maintenance needs, investing in a Henlo machine saves money upfront and delivers economical long-term operation.

Customisation options allow owners to adjust machine features according to individual requirements or trends, making Henlo machines versatile and premium.

The House Blend – Business and Technology

Henlo continuously updates its technology, ensuring products stay current and maintain value in a dynamic second-hand market.

Using SOLIDWORKS parametric-based modeling techniques, Henlo can modify designs on the fly, ensuring updates across all components.

Combining rapid prototyping with a recurring revenue ‘software as a service’ (SAAS) model, Henlo guarantees quality cups regardless of volume or type needed.

Local is ‘Lekker’

Henlo maintains a commitment to local excellence, with 80% primary local manufactured machines.

They balance using superior international components with a focus on local production. Developing a blueprint for international presence, Henlo leverages SOLIDWORKS for part-file sharing, ensuring efficient manufacturing and expanding their brand globally.

The Future of Henlo Coffee

Henlo is partnering with celebrated South African coffee maestro Craig Charity to engineer an intuitive grinder that adjusts grind size automatically based on machine feedback.

They are also developing a compact unit for small establishments or home use. By adapting new technology and upholding principles of premium features, right-to-repair, and longevity,

Henlo Coffee aims to grow and prosper with SOLIDWORKS at their side.

Visit Henlo Coffee HERE

Watch Henlo van der Westhuizen discuss his journey using SOLIDWORKS: