Industrial Design Process: Manufacturing Options and Vendor Souring

Manufacturing Options & Vendor Sourcing	Vendor sourcing matches a proper manufacturing process and supplier to the new product design. Early involvement with vendors reduces design changes and lead-time. We start sourcing estimates for tooling and piece-part costs from the initial concept geometry as a result of our long-term relationships with suppliers. Deliverables include reliable estimates and final quotations.

Prototype Design	The new product design is created as 3D Prototype Geometry completed in SolidWorks design software. Prototype design contains fully defined exterior surfaces with draft, preliminary ribs, bosses and parting line joints. The prototype geometry is built around interior components with clearance checks performed based on client specifications. The prototype geometry is a valuable template for the final engineering design, however it is not used directly for production tooling. Deliverables include prototype geometry.

Prototype Build	A prototype model is built using the prototype geometry to physically represent the new product design. The aesthetics, number of parts, service, industry standards, manufacturing processes, materials and assembly are all represented as accurately as SLA and CNC processes permit. We can provide silicone rubber molds and multiple cast parts with threaded brass inserts when several prototypes are required. Painted steel, machined aluminum and stainless steel prototype parts are also available. Deliverables include a functional prototype model and prototype evaluation.