Flexicraft Pro Sizer PipeSeal Calculator
The Client.
This application was developed for Flexicraft, a manufacturing company based in Chicago. Flexicraft has been providing metal and rubber expansion joints since 1963. With over 50 years in the industry, their expertise in piping solutions is extraordinary. Wherever there are industrial pipes, Flexicraft support is invaluable. Their video guides simplify the processes to install their products, allowing their organization to be both an education and service provider.
The Challenge.
The client team was using an Excel sheet with formulas to select the correct pipe fitting based upon the measurement. It has been cumbersome to use the Excel sheet, and users need to have a computer and internet connection to use it. Many users were in the field when they needed to use the spreadsheet and the internet connections were not always reliable. The client came to Simpalm to solve this challenge by building a digital solution. We suggested building a progressive web app that could work on any device and also have offline capabilities.
The Solution.
In order to provide a resource that would meet the requirements set forth by the client, Simpalm developed the Flexicraft Pro Sizer PipeSeal Calculator. This progressive web application (PWA) is able to be used on phones and computers takes in a user’s input for the type of pipe and pipe size, as well as the type of hose and hole size, and gives a calculation of which PipeSeal model to use and how many links will be needed. This serves as a way to give all customers an online resource to determine their needs for pipes and hole sizes. These numbers and details can be taken to the Flexicraft website to order the correct equipment any task may require.
Available on Desktop and Mobile Devices.
Leveraging frameworks like React, we utilized libraries that support multi-platform development to enhance user experience and seamless compatibility between desktop monitors, laptops, tablets, and mobile platforms, all while maintaining core functionality.
Offline Capability .
- Equipped with caching, the calculator is able to store all formulas and data in a very small file during the first instance when the app is installed. This enables continuous functionality, allowing users to perform calculations anywhere and anytime, whether it be at home or in the field.
Directly Input Values.
- Users have the capability to input a variety of parameters including the type of pipe and its size in inches, specify the type and size of the hole, as well as the inner diameter in inches.
Stored Output.
- All outputted calculations will show up in the Penetration Summary table beneath the calculator. This shows the final outputted result as well as the input values it took to get the calculated pipe or hole.
Real-time Results.
- If an input is invalid, the calculator will notify the user, and ask for a different input. As users enter their inputs and click calculate, all the calculation is done in an instant and results will be displayed in the table below.
All formulas and conditions are stored in the cache, allowing any calculation to be instantaneous and available.
