RAPID PROTOTYPES
From Concept to Reality: Rapid Prototyping with Axim Mica
SERVICES > RAPID PROTOTYPES
WHAT IS RAPID PROTOTYPING?
Rapid prototyping refers to various manufacturing methods leveraged to quickly create preliminary physical versions of a product design for evaluation versus waiting through days or weeks of fabrication processes.
The goal is obtaining a basic testable model rapidly once the concept phase completes rather than following standard sequential production steps. Common rapid approaches include additive 3D printing, CNC machining raw materials directly based on digital files, employing laser/water jets to avoid tooling lead times, or vacuum forming thermoplastic sheets.
While early prototypes may lack aesthetic details, the focus is adequately testing key dimensions, ergonomics, and core functionality upfront to uncover flaws sooner when revisions are less complex and preserve development budgets.
RAPID PROTOTYPING CAPABILITIES
- High-Fidelity Prototyping: Our manufacturing insights facilitate high-accuracy mica material prototypes matching final production component performance specifications across key criteria.
- Low to Mid-Volume Production: Our specialty lies in refining efficient fabrication programming via low to midsize runs saving you extensive changeover efforts down the line.
- Design Versatility: Benefit from our access to the latest additive, subtractive and laser machining technology skillfully tackling your most delicate or intricate mica innovations.
- Prompt Design Adjustments: Rely on Axim Mica’s rapid engineering change order modifications during prototyping resulting in a faster timeline to finalizing product development specifications.
- Consistent Quality Standards: Have full confidence in our stringent internal controls consistently achieving precision tolerances across all prototyped component deliveries.
HOW WE BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE
CONCEPT INTRODUCTION
1.
Share preliminary sketches or CAD models to detail key dimensions, materials, budgets and time frames.
DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
2.
Our specialists suggest modifications that balance creativity and production practicalities early when less complex to adjust.
DIGITAL FILE FINALIZATION
3.
Incorporate constructive input into further CAD iterations until models contain adequate specifications to initiate physical instantiations.
COMPONENT FABRICATION
4.
Produce multiple material iterations for hands-on validation through techniques like 3D printing, CNC machining or laser cutting.
EVALUATION & FEEDBACK
5.
Test printed prototypes against key requirements and suggest design improvements before finalizing pre-production blueprints.
BENEFITS OF RAPID PROTOTYPING
- Quick Feedback Cycle: Move from concept to physical object swiftly, allowing for immediate evaluation and necessary adjustments. This speeds up the overall design process, saving time and resources.
- Reduced Risk: Testing a physical prototype means design flaws are spotted early, reducing the risk of costly errors when it’s time for mass production.
- Better Communication: A tangible prototype communicates ideas clearly within teams and to stakeholders outside the development process, bridging the gap between concept and reality.
- Customization Ease: Prototyping allows for the easy creation of customized parts for specific applications, ensuring that the final product is perfectly suited to its end use.
- Innovation Empowerment: With the freedom to test ideas quickly, designers and engineers can push boundaries, innovate, and improve designs in ways previously not possible.
FAQs
Design, build, and test. Initially, concepts are designed using CAD. These are then built into physical models using various manufacturing technologies. Finally, prototypes are tested against criteria for functionality, performance, and aesthetics.
Use rapid prototyping during the early stages of product development to validate designs, improve product functionality through iterative feedback, and reduce time to market by identifying and fixing issues early.
While typically used for prototypes, certain rapid prototyping methods like SLM or SLS can produce parts strong enough for some end-use applications, especially for short runs or custom components.