The Right Prototype at the Right Time
Utilizing the best prototype process for different phases and applications can be very advantageous for all product development projects. Whether it's a new product, an update on an existing product, or a complex assembly, Broadview Product Development is ready to support your team. There are multiple reasons companies are looking for prototypes, and at different steps of their own development cycles. Following are applications we support most often.
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Concept development plays a pivotal role in the development of a new product during the prototype phase. It involves refining and iterating on initial ideas, translating them into concrete design concepts, and outlining key features and functionality. By focusing on concept development, designers and engineers can align their vision, identify potential challenges, and make informed decisions about the prototype's form, function, and user experience. This process facilitates effective communication among stakeholders and enables the creation of prototypes that accurately represent the desired product, setting a solid foundation for successful product development and eventual commercialization.
PROOF OF CONCEPT
Proof of concept prototypes are crucial in product development, allowing designers and engineers to validate their ideas and test functionality before committing to full-scale production. With the advent of advanced manufacturing technologies like 3D printing, urethane casting and CNC machining, creating these prototypes has become more efficient and cost-effective. 3D printing enables the rapid production of intricate and complex parts, offering quick iterations and design flexibility. Urethane casting, on the other hand, allows for the production of small batches of functional prototypes with properties similar to the final product, enabling rigorous testing. CNC machining complements these techniques by providing precise and accurate prototypes from a wide range of materials, including metals. Together, these manufacturing methods empower innovators to transform their concepts into tangible prototypes, facilitating faster iteration and enhancing the overall product development process.
LOOKS LIKE / FEELS LIKE
"Looks like" prototype parts play a crucial role in the development process by providing visual representations of potential products or components. These prototypes, although not functional, offer valuable insights into the overall aesthetics, dimensions, and ergonomics of the final design. They aid in design validation, allowing designers and stakeholders to visualize the product, identify potential design flaws, and make informed decisions before investing in expensive manufacturing processes. By rapidly creating and iterating "looks like" prototypes, developers can effectively communicate their ideas, gather feedback, and refine designs, ultimately saving time and resources in the product development lifecycle.
TESTING
A prototype part made specifically for testing serves as a vital tool in validating product performance and functionality. This type of prototype is meticulously engineered to replicate the critical features and behaviors of the intended final product. It allows engineers to conduct rigorous testing, simulation, and analysis to assess factors such as structural integrity, material durability, tolerance limits, and assembly compatibility. By utilizing this specialized prototype part, Broadview Product Development ensures that potential design flaws and performance issues are identified and addressed early in the development process, leading to improved product reliability and reduced time-to-market. Quite often CNC machining is the go to process for test prototypes, as production grade materials can be better replicated for a wider majority of manufacturing processes.
SALES MODELS / TRADESHOW SUPPORT
Functional and show-ready prototype parts and assemblies play a crucial role in effectively showcasing new products at sales meetings and tradeshow events. These prototypes are meticulously crafted to not only have an aesthetic appeal but also to accurately mimic the functionality and performance of the final product. By utilizing functional and show-ready prototypes, companies can provide potential customers with a tangible experience, allowing them to interact with the product and understand its features and benefits firsthand. These prototypes not only create a lasting impression but also enable companies to gather valuable feedback and insights from customers and industry professionals. By showcasing new products with high-quality prototypes, businesses can generate excitement, build brand credibility, attract potential customers, and ultimately drive sales results.
LOW VOLUME PRODUCTION / PRE- TOOLING RUN
Bridging the gap between prototyping and full-scale production, urethane casting can provide numerous benefits. This manufacturing process enables the production of functional parts using materials that closely resemble the final product, allowing for realistic testing and evaluation. Urethane casting offers faster turnaround times and lower costs compared to traditional tooling methods, making it an ideal solution for small batch production or market testing. It allows for design validation, refinement, and fine-tuning before investing in expensive production tooling. With its ability to produce high-quality, low-volume parts efficiently, it proves a valuable steppingstone towards mass production, minimizing risks and ensuring a successful product launch.
CNC machining is also a good process for producing small batches of parts in a large variety of plastic and metal materials, while avoiding the expense of production grade tooling. From ABS to stainless steel, Broadview's machinists are highly experienced and ready for your next project.
For more detailed information, please visit broadviewproduct.com.
Broadview takes a unique approach to the product development and prototype process. Different from typical product development firms, Broadview offers each step or service in an "A-La-Carte" fashion. Meaning you can utilize our team and skills at any point within your own development process. We have a unique ability to integrate with our customers' teams at any phase of their project, and this flexibility gives us the opportunity to serve our clients in a way that fits their needs and timing.
