What we do
Fab Habs offers design and engineering services to those undertaking an overlanding truck build.
We support our clients during their build by applying specialized engineering expertise when:
• designing their box and interfacing with their box-builder
• designing their furniture, providing cut lists and assembly guides
• designing their systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) with schematics, hardware lists, and routing plans
• designing the right subframe for their base vehicle and habitation box
Wherever we get involved we apply engineering methods and core principles to guide our designs and recommendations. We believe investing in quality engineering from the design stage makes for a much smoother and more successful build.
We work with our clients to provide support when and where they need it the most. We believe our role is to help you make your vision a reality by providing technical expertise. We work in partnership with you to understand your goals and preferences and systematically scope your project.
The overlanding truck building blocks
Below is an outline of each milestone of an overlanding build and the outputs we provide to help manage each phase of the project.
We find this breaks the work down into discrete, manageable elements and gives our clients an opportunity to bring us in as and when they need us.
Although following the process in its entirety guarantees the best results we are also happy to come in at different points in your expedition truck design to make sure you get the support you need.
Outputs
We meticulously detail apertures, reinforcements, conduits, and clear zones, ensuring a smooth build process and preventing future issues during assembly.
Meticulous engineering drawings that any box-builder can use to fabricate your habitation box with confidence and certainty.
Systems design and utilities
Outputs
We design and size all technical systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, tailored to your specific needs. Using a needs-first approach, we ensure each system is optimally sized. Our simulations for various climates guarantee resource sufficiency, giving you confidence in any environment.
Outputs
We design and engineer the right subframe for your base vehicle and habitation box. Each subframe is tailored to the application and we factor in the condition and age of the vehicle, as well as the properties of your habitation box. We account for dynamic loading and aim to strike the best compromise between off-road capability, durability, and vehicle height.
CNC plans for a fabricator or cut metal delivered to your assembly location ready for welding.
Interiors and funiture
Outputs
We transform functional layouts into detailed, production-ready plans. We scale the level of detail according to your needs and we can be as comprehensive as you need. Once a final design is settled, we collaborate with local CNC cutters or artisans to arrange a kit delivered to your door or builder.
A detailed 3D CAD reference model, drawings for CNC cutter, comprehensive inventory, assembly information.
Bespoke
Outputs
We undertake bespoke engineering work for unusual base vehicles, unique requirements, or exotic materials. If you want to do something out-of-the-box and you're not sure if we can help, get in touch.
Base vehicle comparison analyses, stress and thermal simulations, pop-up box designs, dropped galley designs, and much more.
Examples
Electrical System Planning and Design
We define and quantify all the loads (electrical appliances) and use-patterns, do some scenario planning to size battery banks, and come up with a charging strategy.
The key outputs are a pictogram of the system, control panels, and switches, a technical schematic, and a purchasing list.
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Mass Distribution
For specific analyses, we have prepared special tools to make early design decisions. E.g. our front-rear weight distribution tool helps plan for good off-road capability and staying well within manufacturer axle weight limits.
Concept Visualization
We use CAD to create clear visual models of your concept before you commit.
Using renders, animations, and interactive 3D models you can interrogate your design.
Get in touch
Tell us about your project and find out if we can help.