In the summer of 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on an enriching internship journey in Bangalore, India. My internship was hosted by Impel Services Pvt. Ltd., which oversees two prominent subsidiaries: Bindwel and Stelda. Bindwel, a leading manufacturer in the country, specializes in crafting cutting-edge machines for bookbinding. On the other hand, Stelda, a dynamic packaging solutions provider, sets itself apart by tailoring products based on client-specific problem statements. This experience provided me with a unique perspective on the intricacies of the industry and allowed me to delve into the inner workings of both companies.
During my tenure at Bindwel, I had the privilege of engaging with various facets of the company's operations. As a major player in the bookbinding industry with substantial export activities to African countries, Bindwel showcased a commitment to excellence. My immersion in the company included interactions with every department, granting me invaluable insights into the manufacturing processes. Witnessing the entire lifecycle of a product, from conception to post-production, heightened my understanding of the practical applications of my academic knowledge.
I was then placed under a senior executive of the company to collaborate for coming up with an interesting solution called process sheets or stage drawings, which would immensely help the vendors to accelerate production and reduce errors. Given different components, I was tasked with identifying all the processes and machines required to produce the respective component. I then made a step by step stage drawing on AUTOCAD, starting from the raw material to the final product.
Documentation: Process Sheets
A significant portion of my time was dedicated to the assembly department, where I actively contributed to the construction of machines. In this hands-on environment, I independently assembled sub-components and gained proficiency in operating diverse machinery. This multifaceted exposure allowed me to appreciate the significance of each department within Bindwel, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges faced and the crucial role each segment played in the company's success.
Images of some of the sub-assemblies I made during my time at the Assembly Department
Transitioning to Stelda, a dynamic packaging company, presented a distinctive set of challenges and opportunities. What set Stelda apart was its customer-centric approach, crafting solutions tailored to specific client needs. The absence of flagship products highlighted Stelda's prowess in addressing unique problem statements and offering a diverse and stimulating environment.
My engagement with Stelda involved working on a variety of machines customized for specific clients. This hands-on experience proved invaluable, allowing me to understand the intricacies of machine customization and further expanding my technical expertise. A significant highlight of my internship at Stelda was my involvement in a final project where I conceptualized a machine designed to efficiently package boxes of varying sizes—comprising 14 distinct dimensions. I utilized SolidWorks software to make the conceptual 3D model of the machine. This endeavor not only tested my engineering acumen but also provided a tangible contribution to Stelda's commitment to innovative solutions.
In conclusion, my internship at Bindwel and Stelda was a transformative experience, offering a holistic view of the bookbinding and packaging industries. The exposure to diverse departments and projects equipped me with practical knowledge that complements my academic foundation, contributing to my growth as an aspiring professional in the field.