Case Study: Muto Acoustic Felt Dividers
At Soleberg Industries, along with overseeing process and procedure improvements throughout the company and all product lines, I played a key role in developing the Muto Acoustic Felt line, transforming raw PET-pressed acoustical felt into three distinct product categories. Each product showcases its unique capabilities while maintaining the core values of sound absorption, bold aesthetics, and versatile design.
Printed Pattern Panels
The Printed Pattern Product Line brought Muto Felt to life with a range of intricate designs printed directly onto its surface. Patterns were developed in varying densities—small, medium, and large—providing options that complemented different interior aesthetics. Using an in-house flatbed printer, I tested and refined these designs, ensuring vibrant, durable prints across various thicknesses. Once finalized, production processes were streamlined to ensure consistency and scalability. This line became an immediate favorite for clients looking to combine acoustic functionality with bold, visual appeal.
CNC-Cut Divider Panels
Designed as a versatile solution for open-plan spaces, the CNC-Cut Divider Panels offered both form and function. Crafted from solid-color Muto Felt sheets, these panels featured a series of precise cutouts, creating dynamic patterns that served as both partitions and decorative elements. During the development phase, I used a CNC router to prototype and test designs, ensuring the panels maintained structural integrity while remaining lightweight and easy to install. The final products were optimized for efficient production and shipping, making them an accessible and stylish option for diverse spaces.
Thermoformed Textured Panels
The Thermoformed Textured Panels represented the most innovative extension of the Muto line. Using thicker sheets of felt, we introduced a heat-and-vacuum molding process to create tactile, three-dimensional designs. Each panel was formed against custom molds, resulting in a sensory-rich surface perfect for high-impact wall applications. During development, I experimented with material thicknesses, mold patterns, and cooling techniques to achieve consistent textures and quality. These panels provided clients with a bold, modern option for enhancing acoustics while adding visual depth to their spaces.
A Collaborative Launch
Throughout the development of the Muto line, I worked closely with marketing, production, and logistics teams to refine and roll out each product. Prototypes were showcased to sales representatives and design professionals, generating excitement and paving the way for a successful launch. Today, Muto’s vibrant colors, innovative textures, and versatile applications make it a standout product in the acoustic materials market.
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