testing & optimization
Before going into larger scale production, we first need to verify how well the product performs. For this we are thoroughly testing the P1 prototype.
testing
After we finished the assembly and documentation of the P1 prototype, the first thing we do is testing. It normally starts with functional testing, but soon we come to other tests in the fields of ergonomics, safety, performance, climate, etc.
Step by step we try and test the different functions of the product in our workshop or lab. When all seems to be good, we take the product out in real life conditions and start further testing.
Some parts need to be tested destructive, for instance to find the maximum number of load impulsed on a bike part. For this the bike frame is loaded into a testing rig and various loads are applied thousands of times to see how long the part will last before failing. And if it fails, how will it fail and does that cause any safety risk to the user.
Some of these endurance, safety or performance tests are prescribed by ISO norms, sometimes we voluntarily run such testing. Or we run even more severe tests on a product than ISO would prescribe, if we believe that real life use is heavier than the norms.
optimizations
It is important to document the results of the testing and draw conclusions. In most cases the product needs a cycle of optimization to get better, before going into larger production.
These optimizations are mostly rather small, but important changes. This means only a short period of engineering is needed to apply the changes to the set of files.
And mostly a P2 prototype is made to verify the results of the changes. Or we can change only a few parts to transform the P1 into a P2 prototype.
next step
If new testing with the P2 leads to successful results, then it is time to select manufacturing partners for larger scale production.
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