Development for the Inventor

Now you have your product designed and it's time to get Prototypes!

Prototyping

Prototyping is a key phase of product design where the 3D CAD file(s) is converted to an accurate solid part that can be used for fit, function, testing, and marketing.

I have experience and enjoy working with all types of technologies that will quickly make your product a reality. These include SLA, SLS, FDM, Urethane, Cast, and CNC machining. Use of Stereo Lithography (SLA) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is very common. These processes allow parts to be built exactly as designed in a matter of hours.

To the right are several SLA parts being assembled and evaluated by my customer before tooling.

Testing

Once prototypes are received, whether mechanical or electrical, I will fully support the testing and documentation process. Fit, form, and function will be checked, and files updated, before tooling. This helps eliminate costly changes.

Many people I work with give prototypes to friends and relatives to gain feedback on the product. As a result of this, it may be necessary to implement changes to the product. Some customers present their prototypes at Trade Shows, or simply approach potential vendors and make deals!

Tooling Phase

I will follow the 3D CAD data through tooling, and keep accurately detailed features in the file. This saves time and money on unnecessary mistakes during the tooling phase. At Critical Path Design I take pride in working out the tough details that insure a successful product. Details like draft, rounds, part thickness, and materials, are critical factors in the development of a part or product.

I will provide tooling support for you at home or in Asia as needed. I have experience inspecting first article parts and having them re-worked until they meet production quality.

Manufacturing Support

Now you've gotten actual parts or Prototypes, a patent or some other form of protection, and positive response to your product. It's time to produce and sell your invention!

Generally, your best profit will be made if you produce and sell your own product; however, there are other ways to go about this. Some inventors start their own businesses. Others find success by selling their product idea, or licensing it for royalties. This eliminates the responsibilities associated with production. You can even use contract production companies to assemble, package, and ship your product, while you manage other aspects of your business. See “My Product Engineer.”

Regardless of the direction you decide to take with this, Critical Path Design can help completely define your product. We will generate manufacturing drawings, and provide quotes for tooling, parts, and packaging needs to help insure a more solid approach when dealing with marketers and manufacturers.

Continue to the Patent Process >>>

<<< Back to Design Process