Smaller shell.Greater durability.
Redesigned for durability and scalability
Results that make a difference
A CAN (controller area network) controller acts as the translator between heavy equipment and its attachments. It sends signals between the vehicle and connected systems so operators can control equipment directly from the cab. For farmers, contractors and field techs, this means faster work and fewer wiring headaches.
Skid Steer Genius had already proven the controller in real-world use over many years in production. As the product matured, they partnered with 28 Gorilla to modernize the design, update components and improve manufacturing practices. The work focused on updates to the mechanical design, electronics layout, and firmware to support long-term reliability and production.
Make production, installation and servicing easier
The existing controller performed well but revealed limitations over time in real-world field use. It lacked clear diagnostic feedback, was larger than ideal for tight installs, and was difficult to fully protect against water and vibration. The goal was to preserve existing functionality while improving manufacturability, installation and serviceability. That meant reducing the size, improving sealing, and making the controller easier to install and service without redesigning the entire system.
Engineer for real-world use
We started by reducing the overall footprint of the controller by nearly 50%. Our team reshaped the board and housing for better thermal performance and created a potting-compatible layout that kept indicator lights visible after sealing. Flanges were added to support flexible mounting on different equipment.
On the firmware side, we added diagnostic LEDs that shine through the encapsulant to give technicians real-time system feedback without opening the case. Throughout the update process, we collaborated with 29Tech, our integrated manufacturing partner, to align design decisions with production feasibility and quality control. This reduced hand-off delays and supported efficient small batch manufacturing.
Up close with
CAN Controller
Skills & equipment used
- Human-factors design
- Mounting flexibility
- Rugged enclosures
- SolidWorks
- 3D printing
- Prototyping tools
- Signal integrity
- EMI mitigation
- IP67-rated component selection
- Altium
- Oscilloscopes
- Harnessing tools
- Ingress protection
- Multi-surface mounting
- Strain relief design
- CAD modeling
- Stress analysis tools
- Embedded diagnostics
- LED fault logic
- CAN interface support
- C/C++
- Microcontroller dev boards
- Bench testing
- Part consolidation
- Encapsulation readiness
- PCB orientation for LED visibility
- Assembly consultation
- Vendor coordination
- Requirements shaping
- Early-stage risk reduction
- Concept-to-prototype transition
- Napkin sketch to CAD
