10 Oct. 2024: Maflex announces that its concept for a machine built entirely out of Lego bricks has been approved and published on Lego Ideas, the platform dedicated to promoting and sharing original projects created with the world’s most famous bricks.
This initiative represents a unique approach to showcasing tissue converting technology through an iconic, creative, and globally recognized medium.
The inspiration for this project originated from an AI-generated image featured in the Maflex 2024 calendar, where a Maflex machine was portrayed as a prototype made from bricks. After further exploring the potential, LEGO® encouraged Maflex to develop its idea and publish it on the LEGO Ideas platform.
The current state of the Maflex Unwinder project is represented by a series of 3D renderings, created using specialized software. As per LEGO®'s regulations, the model uses only original LEGO ®parts. “That’s why chains are used instead of traditional belts for supporting the reel,” explains Renato Del Monte, Technical Sales Manager at Maflex, who personally adapted the original technical designs of Maflex unwinders using the 3D program.
The Tissue Converting Machinery Set consists of nearly 1,200 pieces, resulting in a model measuring 31.5 x 43.2 x 23.4 cm and weighing approximately 1 kg—a true assembly challenge! The motor can be powered by a compatible battery pack, and the belts rotate. The model is even designed to hold a standard household paper towel roll.
Maflex and LEGO®: A Union of Values and Innovation
“The idea of embarking on this unique project immediately appealed to us. It’s an unconventional way to communicate our brand values,” says Paola Pellegrini, Marketing & Communication Manager at Maflex. “We’re not aware of any similar initiative in our industry. LEGO® represents innovation, fun, and limitless possibilities.”
The association with this globally recognized brand, characterized by values similar to those of Maflex, enhances the company’s nearly 30 years of experience in tissue converting machinery, highlighting its personality. “This collaboration emphasizes Maflex’s essence. We are a relatively young, dynamic, creative, and proactive company, with a strong focus on original ideas, diversification, and R&D,” confirms Luca Mazzotti, General Manager.
Next Step: Gaining Support to Reach the Shelves!
Being featured on LEGO Ideas gives Maflex a unique opportunity to climb a different ladder to success! The project can be voted on and supported on the platform, where many LEGO® enthusiasts have already left enthusiastic comments.
The more votes the project receives, the greater its chances of becoming an official LEGO® set and making it to store shelves. “We know that achieving this goal won’t be easy,” notes Luca Mazzotti, “but at Maflex, we are used to tackling challenges with determination and pursuing them with passion. Every time, we find ourselves moving forward with an innovative solution for a client! We are curious to see where this journey will take us, and we plan to develop more sets in the future,” concludes Ing. Mazzotti. Maflex approached this initiative with the right balance of lightheartedness and creativity, and now, we eagerly await the results. We invite everyone to support the Maflex project on the LEGO Ideas platform and vote for the Maflex Unwinder Set. Who knows? This might be the first time a tissue converting machine lands on store shelves instead of a pack of paper rolls.
3D renderings of the Maflex unwinder made with LEGO® bricks, visible on the LEGO Ideas platform.
