Replacing Bridge Blinds without altering the existing frames.
Replacing bridge blinds is not always straightforward, particularly when the new system must fit within existing frames. For one marine client, the priority was to renew the bridge screens without extensive alterations to the surrounding structure.
Following an onboard survey, Solar Solve developed a tailored solution combining adapted standard parts with specially sourced components. The replacement screens were manufactured within a few weeks and installed during a scheduled drydock period. The project was completed well within budget and much sooner than the client expected.
The Challenge:
An alternative proposal involved a substantially higher price, longer lead times and extensive remedial work to accommodate new blinds. Solar Solve was tasked with finding a practical replacement that would retain the existing bridge frames while ensuring the new screens fitted and operated correctly.
This meant looking beyond the standard component range. The team needed to establish which parts could be adapted, which specialist components were required and how the complete assembly would work within the available space.
The Solution:
Following a detailed onboard survey, Solar Solve investigated, sourced and tested components to suit the existing installation. These included a specialist roller tube and motors, alongside modifications to selected standard Solar Solve parts.
By assessing the requirements of the existing frames and working through the available component options, the team developed a suitable replacement arrangement without the extensive bridge alterations anticipated in the alternative proposal.
The replacement screens were manufactured within a few weeks, in time for installation during the scheduled drydock period.
The Installation:
The Solar Solve team completed the installation over two days during the drydock period, working closely with the onboard team.
One minor alignment issue arose when a section of the existing metal structure required a slight adjustment to allow a blind to sit level. The onboard engineering team made the adjustment, enabling the installation to be completed successfully. The screens operated correctly following installation.
The Solar Solve team completed the installation over two days during the drydock period, working closely with the onboard team.
One minor alignment issue arose when a section of the existing metal structure required a slight adjustment to allow a blind to sit level. The onboard engineering team made the adjustment, enabling the installation to be completed successfully. The screens operated correctly following installation.
The Result:
The completed project delivered replacement bridge blinds while keeping alterations, cost and installation time under control. Key outcomes included:
- Existing bridge frames retained, avoiding extensive remedial work.
- Specialist roller tube and motors sourced, together with adaptations to standard Solar Solve components.
- New screens manufactured within a few weeks and installed over two days.
- Project completed well within budget and much sooner than the client expected.
- Close collaboration with the onboard engineering team resolved the minor alignment issue.
Following installation, Solar Solve also confirmed that an additional remote could be programmed from the existing handset without removing bridge trim to disconnect the power. An extra remote was subsequently requested.
Client Feedback:
“Thanks for your assistance with this and the instructions provided. The blinds are working fantastically so far on the Atlantic crossing!” – Second Officer
Conclusion:
This project demonstrates the value of finding a replacement blind system that works with existing bridge fittings. Through a detailed survey, component testing, adapted standard parts and specialist sourcing, Solar Solve delivered new bridge blinds without extensive alterations. Close cooperation with the onboard engineering team helped ensure a successful installation, with costs and turnaround kept well under control.
To learn more about Solar Solve’s full range of SOLASOLV® and ROLASOLV® solutions click here:
👉 Solar Roller Screens | Anti-Glare Shades by Solar Solve
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👉 Contact Us – Solasolv
