Elevan LLC Company Profile
Background
Company Overview
Elevan LLC, operating under the trade name Elevate Systems, is a full-service organization specializing in engineering services, executive, and professional consulting. Founded in 2012, the company is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. Elevan LLC focuses on providing innovative solutions in reverse engineering, design, and additive manufacturing, primarily serving the Department of Defense (DoD).
Mission and Vision
Elevan LLC's mission is to deliver high-quality engineering and consulting services that enhance the operational capabilities of its clients. The company envisions becoming a leading provider of innovative solutions in reverse engineering and additive manufacturing, contributing to the advancement of defense technologies.
Industry Significance
Operating within the aerospace and defense sector, Elevan LLC plays a crucial role in supporting the DoD's efforts to modernize and sustain its equipment. By offering specialized services in reverse engineering and additive manufacturing, the company addresses challenges related to obsolescence and supply chain management, thereby enhancing the readiness and effectiveness of defense systems.
Key Strategic Focus
Core Objectives
- Reverse Engineering and Design: Utilizing state-of-the-art technologies to reverse engineer and design components, ensuring compatibility and functionality within existing systems.
- Additive Manufacturing: Employing advanced 3D printing techniques to produce prototypes and final products, reducing lead times and costs.
- Sustaining Engineering: Providing ongoing support and maintenance services to extend the lifecycle of defense equipment.
Areas of Specialization
- Metrology and Measurement: Operating a metrology lab equipped with the latest Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) technology to ensure precision in component measurements.
- 3D Printing and Prototyping: Utilizing thermoplastic 3D printers for rapid prototyping, facilitating quick iterations and design validation.
Key Technologies Utilized
- CMM Technology: For precise measurement and quality control of components.
- 3D Printing: To create prototypes and end-use parts, enabling rapid development and testing.
- SolidWorks: For computer-aided design (CAD) to develop detailed 3D models.
Primary Markets Targeted
- Department of Defense (DoD): Supplying engineering and consulting services to various branches, including the Air Force, Army, and Navy.
- Aerospace and Defense Contractors: Collaborating with prime contractors to provide specialized engineering solutions.
Financials and Funding
Funding History
Elevan LLC has secured multiple Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards from the U.S. Air Force, reflecting its strong position in the defense sector. Notable awards include:
- 2023: Phase II award of $799,985 for "Legacy Technical Data Conversion of 2D to 2D Digital Files."
- 2022: Phase II award of $1,250,001 for "Utilization 3D Design and Additive Manufacturing to Support Flight Operations for the E-3 AWACS."
- 2022: Phase II award of $1,250,001 for "Innovative Solutions for Legacy Systems Landing Gear Plastics Modernization Using Plastic Additive Manufacturing."
- 2022: Phase I award of $250,000 for "Metal 3D Printing & Recycling System in Space."
- 2021: Phase II award of $799,121 for "Adaptation of 2D to 2D Analysis and Digital Conversion Platform for Legacy Air Force Technical Data and Drawings."
These awards demonstrate the company's capability and reliability in delivering innovative solutions to the DoD.
Recent Funding Rounds
Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, the company's consistent receipt of SBIR awards indicates ongoing financial support and investment in its technological capabilities.
Notable Investors
As a privately held company, Elevan LLC does not publicly disclose its investors.
Utilization of Capital
The capital from SBIR awards is primarily utilized for:
- Research and Development: Advancing reverse engineering processes and additive manufacturing technologies.
- Equipment Acquisition: Upgrading and maintaining state-of-the-art metrology and 3D printing equipment.
- Staff Expansion: Hiring specialized personnel to support project execution and innovation.
Pipeline Development
Key Pipeline Candidates
Elevan LLC is engaged in several projects aimed at enhancing defense system capabilities:
- Legacy Technical Data Conversion: Converting 2D technical data to digital files to improve accessibility and usability.
- E-3 AWACS Support: Utilizing 3D design and additive manufacturing to support flight operations for the E-3 AWACS aircraft.
- Landing Gear Plastics Modernization: Applying plastic additive manufacturing to modernize legacy landing gear components.
- Metal 3D Printing & Recycling System: Developing a system for metal 3D printing and recycling in space environments.
Stages of Development
These projects are at various stages, with some in the research phase and others in active development, as indicated by the awarded SBIR phases.
Target Conditions
The projects aim to address challenges such as technical data obsolescence, equipment modernization, and operational support for defense systems.
Anticipated Milestones
Specific timelines for project milestones are not publicly disclosed. However, the company's history of successful SBIR awards suggests a strong track record in meeting project objectives.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Proprietary Technologies
- Reverse Engineering Processes: Innovative methods for analyzing and reproducing components to ensure compatibility and functionality.
- Additive Manufacturing Techniques: Advanced 3D printing technologies for rapid prototyping and production.
Significant Scientific Methods
- Metrology: Utilizing precise measurement techniques to ensure component accuracy.
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Employing simulation software to predict component behavior under various conditions.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Using SolidWorks for detailed 3D modeling and design.
AI-Driven Capabilities
While specific AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, the company's use of advanced simulation and modeling software indicates a commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies into its processes.
Leadership Team
Key Executives
- Scott Gray: President and CEO. Scott has a background in engineering and has been instrumental in leading Elevan LLC's strategic direction and growth.
- Alex Villareal: Executive Vice President. Alex brings extensive experience in defense contracting and has played a key role in securing and managing federal contracts.
Leadership Changes
No recent significant changes or appointments within the company's leadership have been publicly disclosed.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The defense contracting industry is characterized by a competitive landscape, with numerous companies vying for contracts to provide engineering and consulting services to the DoD. Elevan LLC differentiates itself through its specialized focus on reverse engineering and additive manufacturing, addressing specific needs within the defense sector.
Competitor Analysis
Elevan LLC's primary competitors include other defense contractors offering similar engineering and consulting services. The company distinguishes itself by its expertise in reverse engineering and additive manufacturing, providing innovative solutions that enhance the operational capabilities of defense systems.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Collaborations
Elevan LLC collaborates with various DoD agencies, including the Air Force, Army, and Navy, to provide specialized engineering solutions. These collaborations are facilitated through contracts such as the SBIR awards and other federal procurement processes.
Partnerships
While specific partnerships are not detailed, the company's engagement with multiple DoD agencies indicates a network of strategic relationships that support its operations and growth.
Operational Insights
Strategic Considerations
Elevan LLC's focus on reverse engineering and additive manufacturing positions it to address critical challenges in the defense sector, such as equipment obsolescence and supply chain complexities. By offering specialized services, the company enhances its competitiveness and value proposition to the DoD.
Competitive Advantages
- Specialized Expertise: Deep knowledge in reverse engineering and additive manufacturing tailored for defense applications.
- Technological Capabilities: Access to advanced metrology and 3D printing equipment, enabling rapid prototyping and precise measurements.
- Proven Track Record: Successful execution of multiple SBIR projects, demonstrating reliability and capability in delivering complex solutions.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Strategic Roadmap
Elevan LLC aims to expand its portfolio by pursuing additional federal contracts, particularly in areas related to equipment