1) Idea Generation is often called the “fuzzy front end” of the NPD process Ideas for new products can be obtained from basic research using a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats), Market and consumer trends, company’s R&D department, competitors, focus groups, employees, salespeople, corporate spies, trade shows, or Ethnographic discovery methods (searching for [...]
Hard milling intricate steel geometry for critical medical devices cuts to the core of suppler relationships. Rapid changes in technology involve a never-ending learning curve to increase value and reduce costs while advancing overall performance. To meet this challenge, get your suppliers involved as soon as possible! […]
In the USA, automotive design reached a turning point in 1924 when the American national automobile market began reaching saturation. […]
Thermoforming is a manufacturing process where a plastic sheet is heated to a pliable forming temperature, formed to a specific shape in a mold, and trimmed to create a usable product. […]
Interaction design (IxD) is the study of devices with which a user can interact, in particular computer users. The practice typically centers around “embedding information technology into the ambient social complexities of the physical world.” It can also apply to other types of non-electronic products and services, and even organizations. Interaction design defines the behavior [...]
Environmental design is the process of addressing surrounding environmental parameters when devising plans, programs, policies, buildings, or products. Classical prudent design may have always considered environmental factors; however, the environmental movement beginning in the 1940s has made the concept more explicit. […]
Structural Foam Molding is, in essence, a low pressure injection molding process. It is used to process thermoplastics, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), in a low pressure environment. […]
Interaction designers often follow similar processes to create a solution (not the solution) to a known interface design problem. Designers build rapid prototypes and test them with the users to validate or rebut the idea. […]
Thermoforming has benefited from applications of engineering technology, although the basic forming process is very similar to what was invented many years ago. Microprocessor and computer controls on more modern machinery allow for greatly increased process control and repeatability of same-job setups from one production run to the next, usually with the ability to save [...]
There are two general thermoforming process categories. Sheet thickness less than 1.5 mm (0.060 inches) is usually delivered to the thermoforming machine from rolls or from a sheet extruder. Thin-gauge roll-fed or inline extruded thermoforming applications are dominated by rigid or semi-rigid disposable packaging. […]