product development and engineering
Product development is the second step and is essential for making the concept reality. Our product engineers ensure that a new product is functional, safe and ready for production.
all about the details
Product development and engineering requires a blend of creativity, technical skills, and practical problem-solving. It involves transforming the concept of a product into a robust and fully functional product. This includes everything from the initial design and development to testing and refining the final product.
Our senior engineers work on various aspects like materials, mechanics, CAD modelling and production technology to create products that meet user needs and industry standards.
why is it important?
Product engineering drives innovation by turning creative ideas into practical, marketable products. Our senior engineers push the boundaries of what’s possible, leading to new and improved products.
Through testing with prototypes, product engineering ensures that products are safe, reliable and of high quality.
Effective product engineering will help to optimize the manufacturing process, reducing costs and time to market. This makes products more affordable and accessible.
3d cad modelling
The first important milestone of the product development is to bring the concept to a first fully functional prototype. We call this first prototype the P1.
In order to get there, we use powerful 3D CAD software to develop the product. We design each part, create connections between the parts and integrate standard components. We select materials, production methods, treatments, possible coatings and colors.
More complex products, like e-bikes, electric wheelchairs or medical devices, might require integration of controls, wiring, hoses, motors, PCBs, transmissions, bearings or other technical components.
Once that is done, we make 3D CAD assemblies, check tolerances and perform simulations or tests on functionality, weight, strength and stress.
materials
In dozens of demanding product development projects, both in the fields of sports, bikes and medical, we have gained experience with a large set of materials and work closely together with many vendors.
We have experience in using for instance bio-compatible materials like LSR (liquid silicon rubber), medical grade engineering plastics and medical metals.
In sports applications we use high performance engineering plastics, like glass filled Nylons, PEEK or simpler ABS / PC types of plastics, as well as high performance TPE and TPU’s. Apart from plastics we have experience with metals, like copper, magnesium, stainless steel and lightweight aerospace aluminium like AL7068-T6511.
For sports applications we gained experience in both natural as well as synthetic leathers and fabrics, both for shoes and bags.
integration of electronics
During some product development projects we integrate electronic components like drivetrain motors, controllers, etc. In the past we had our in-house pcb development department. This is useful till the day of today in terms of understanding the integration of pcb’s in products, the limitations and possibilities.
When the concept is working on a proof of concept level, we involve partners in the field of software development and pcb design to bring it to an industrial level.
simulations
We perform simulations on parts that bear heavy loads or which are crucial for the safety of a product.
In many cases we perform 3D CAD simulations and tests with prototypes to achieve maximum performance at minimum weight.
In our e-bike and bicycle development, we use sound design and simulation techniques to arrive at the best solutions for suspension, the best kinematics and state of the art geometry.
technical drawings
In addition to a set of 3D CAD files, we also create a detailed bill of materials and 2D drawings during the transition to production. Prototypes have often already been made, tests have been carried out and optimizations have been implemented.
We mainly use the 2D drawings for quality control. All details that determine the quality of a part, such as tolerances, fits and finishing, are indicated on these drawings.
conclusion
Product development is essential for turning innovative ideas into reality. By focusing on high quality engineering, we ensure that new products are functional, safe, and ready for production. This process not only drives innovation but also ensures that products meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
Whether it’s a new bicycle, a medical device, or a sports product, product development is at the heart of creating products that improve our lives.
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