There can be many reasons to use the services of an industrial prototyping provider.
But no matter what drives you to find the company that will deliver the best prototype, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Before we list them, let’s start by defining the concept of industrial prototyping.
Brief Definition of Industrial Prototyping
Industrial prototyping consists of the creation of a prototype or “proof of concept” that is very similar to the future finished product prior to the start of large, medium or small scale production.
However, the term prototyping can also refer to more upstream interventions, for example in the research and development phase.
However, machine prototyping is usually done after 3D modeling and design.
Finding the Right Prototyping Shop
If your goal is to find a prototyping shop that meets your expectations, you need to do your homework!
Before entrusting your concept to just anyone, compare several potential partners and evaluate their prototyping services on the following points:
1. Prototyping Experience
When you’re evaluating an industrial prototyping company for a job, make sure they’ve successfully completed several projects.
You can do this by contacting the company and asking for examples of prototypes from their portfolio. Even if some projects must remain confidential, they’ll probably be able to show you at least a few.
Another way to verify that a prototyping shop has the experience to handle your project is to go to their website and look for a “Realizations” or “Projects” section. These pages usually contain images and relevant information about prototypes that have been created in the past. These can be used as a basis for comparison.
2. Ability to provide a turnkey approach
The more capabilities a prototyping shop has, the more it will be able to provide you with all the support you need for your project.
Of course, the team you entrust with the job must be able to create parts using various machining operations and assemble them, but their expertise must not stop there. To create the best possible equipment, their skills must extend far beyond the manufacturing of parts and equipment to include
Also remember that the steps leading to the realization of a prototyping project can be numerous:
- Needs analysis;
- Study;
- Engineering;
- Workshop drawings;
- Budget proposal;
- Fabrication;
- Commissioning and testing;
- Delivery and installation.
If you don’t have the human or material resources to meet the challenges of each of these phases, choose a prototyping partner that does.
This is one of the keys to shortening lead times because you’ll be able to coordinate the various stages more easily by limiting the number of people or even subcontractors involved.
Get the support you need to develop your prototype
3. Available Equipment and Technologies
When choosing a prototyping company, comparing the equipment available to each potential partner can help determine which is best equipped to help you.
In general, it’s a good idea to choose a prototyping partner that has invested in the latest software, machinery and technology. This will give you the best chance of achieving short lead times and high levels of precision.
4. Cost of prototyping
Prototyping rates vary from company to company. Some companies charge by the hour, while others charge by the job. Before you hire a prototyping service provider, make sure you understand how they charge.
You should know that the amount you’ll be charged generally depends on the manufacturing technique and materials used. Also, the complexity of the design can affect the cost of prototyping.
Also, don’t forget to see if your project is eligible for a grant. A government program may be able to give you a financial boost.
The Best Industrial Prototyping Service, That’s What We Offer
What you need to take away from this text is that if you want your prototyping project to go as smoothly as you’d hoped, don’t hesitate to do your research. That way, you’ll surround yourself with competent people who keep their promises, just like we do!
When you choose Omnifab to help you prototype your production machine or equipment, you’ll be guided through every aspect of your project by specialists in their field.
And if your goal is to bring a new product to market, our team can help you every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Contact Omnifab.
