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Preparing Your Firm’s Product Design For Manufacturing: How to Streamline Development and Reduce Costs

Posted on December 31, 2024 by faz_business

Indeed, in the competitive market of today, product design goes beyond creativity and functionality but also involves how something can be made more efficiently. A deep understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and supply chains informs designing easy-to-manufacture products at low cost, and scalable designs – Design for Manufacturing (DFM) comes into the scene here. By incorporating DFM principles early in the design process, companies can streamline development, reduce costs, and improve the overall efficiency of their product lifecycle.

In this article we will outline the need for DFM, the guiding principles driving it forward, and practical strategies to help your firm gear up product designs for manufacture. Whether you are a startup or have an existing business, the adoption of DFM practices will yield significant pay-offs for your firm.

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What is design for manufacturing (DFM)?

Design for Manufacturing actually becomes a practice of designing the product with manufacturing processes in mind, making the product easier, cheaper, and quicker in production. DFM focuses on simplification of the product design to reduce its complexity, to improve the manufacturability of the product and at the same time minimize costs in the course of production. It requires a collaborative approach between the design, engineering and manufacturing teams as the specifications of the product have to be compatible with the capability of the selected manufacturing process.

The ultimate intent of DFM is that the design-to-production gap is as low as achievable without the costs being too high and production time too long. Done right, DFM can be an effective means to minimize waste, utilize material resources more efficiently, improve the quality of products, and better the overall manufacturing process.

Why is DFM important?

Introducing DFM in the design process provides your company with immediate benefits, especially when it comes to costs, savings, and a whole lot of efficiency.

1. Better collaboration

DFM encourages cross-functional collaboration between design engineers, manufacturing experts, and procurement teams to ensure all stakeholders understand the potential issues and constraints during the production process. More efficient designs, therefore, are achieved.

2. Cost minimization

Design with manufacturing in mind may result in unnecessary costly revisions and complex processes. Substreamlining of the design process reduces costs produced in assembly time, labor, and raw materials. Much simpler designs are composed of fewer parts that can be simpler to manufacture; hence lower aggregate costs.

3. Speed to market

A product designed to be more manufacturable moves quicker from the design stage to the production one. It helps a company shorten its development process and avoid a long time taken between design stage and production, thereby launching products in the market much faster with fewer changes in the design that could be brought about.

4. Better quality products

DFM ensures that designs are manufactured within the specified tolerances and materials, which makes for better quality consistency in products. It becomes possible to ensure that products designed with manufacturing constraints in mind have fewer defects, higher precision, and better durability when produced.

5. Scalability

Products that are designed for manufacturing efficiency are easier to scale up. Whether you produce hundreds or millions of units, a well-optimized design can facilitate a smooth transition to large-scale production.

Key principles of design for manufacturing

For optimal product design for manufacturing, an understanding of the principles that form the foundation of DFM is essential. These principles focus on reducing complexity while promoting an optimal material consumption that is also aligned with manufacturing capabilities. Explore the following set of critical core principles of DFM:

1. Take into consideration material cost and availability

Material selection becomes another critical aspect of manufacturability and, therefore, cost. DFM encourages designers to use materials that are more readily available, less costly, and easier to process. Of course, the exotic materials may have some unique properties because they could be much more costly than others, with longer lead times and more complex processing.

Selection of materials commonly used in the industry can limit the production time hence the cost of manufacturing. An example can be choosing such metals, plastics, or composites which are more commonly used in the industry to bring down the material costs and ease the procurement.

2. DFA: Design for assembly

Design for assembly centers attention on reducing time to assemble a product, making the manufacture more economical. To guide the process, principles of DFA require you reduce the number of parts and eliminate features that complicate assembly.

For example, you might design parts to self-align easily at assembly (by exploiting symmetry or self-locating features) or select fasteners that are less labor-intensive to install. Reducing the steps and complexity of the assembly process reduces labor cost and opportunities for error.

3. Design for testability

Testability at the design stage will ensure that a product can be tested for quality and performance to quite an extent before and during its production. Testability is the designing of products to where they can be inspected for fault or disparities in the manufacturing process.

Manufacturers can, therefore, include clear points of inspection, accessible test features, or even functionalities with built-in tests in their designs to ensure fewer faults in the manufacturing process and thus an even more coherent production line.

4. Focus on tolerances

Tolerances are the allowable dimensions variations that a part can have at some level of production. Tight tolerances can raise the difficulty level as well as cost of manufacturing. DFM recommends designing parts with tolerances achievable and needed for the function of the product.

By making careful evaluations on the tolerances required, designers will avoid overengineering and extra costs that may come with precision manufacturing. It may also help in avoiding delays due to quality control issues or parts that do not comply with the specified requirement.

5. Reduce manufacturing processes

Every manufacturing process adds to the cost and the complexity of the production cycle. DFM encourages designers to consider the least number of different manufacturing processes that will be required to create a product. For example, instead of designing a part that needs to be cast, machined, and then assembled, design it to be made by one single, more efficient process.

This reduces the number of processes involved, so, therefore, manufacturing cost is reduced and the possibility of errors or defects. It also pushes the designers to think of how much more of the product can be produced in the same process that brings down the setting up cost and improves efficiency.

6. Reduce design complexity

One of the simplest tenets of DFM is simplification. The more complex the design is, the harder and more expensive it is to manufacture. A design may become simpler if it eliminates features that have no meaning, reduces the number of parts, or makes use of standard parts. A design should be functional but easy to produce.

For example, rather than combining the same function into various small components that require assembly, designers can opt for one component that encompasses the exact functionalities. This reduces the time for assemblage and lowers labor cost and the probable errors of the time of production.

7. Standardized components

The use of standard parts and materials significantly reduces the cost of a firm’s production since custom fabrications are no longer needed. Standard components can be sourced easily, are cheaper, and are usually proven to work under the constraints of most manufacturing processes. They also make it easier to manage inventories and lead times.

Designers should opt for the off-the-shelf components and those that can be produced by more prevalent processes, rather than designing special components that might need specific tools or machines. This not only saves material and tooling expense but also reduces the time-to-production end.

Practical approaches for implementing DFM in your organization

Having now outlined the main tenets of DFM, let’s review some practical steps your company can take to implement the principles outlined above in its product development process.

1. Conduct a DFM analysis

After completing the preliminary design, do a detailed DFM review. Through this review, assess whether the product is complex or not; whether it can be manufactured; material selections and methods of assembly. A cross-functional team of engineers, designers and manufacturing experts can examine the design if it accommodates the principles of DFM and make necessary adjustments.

2. Engage manufacturing at an early stage in design

Good DFM practice requires close collaboration between design and manufacturing teams. Involve the manufacturing team as early as possible to ensure the product design meets available processes and equipment. Collaboration on product design can lead to early identification of potential manufacturing challenges, giving the design team the opportunity to modify the product to make it easier and less expensive to manufacture.

3. Iterate based on feedback

Design is a repetitive process. Once feedback from manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance is received, keep modifying the design to become more manufacturable. Constant improvement allows your product to remain affordable, functional, and of high quality throughout the transition from concept to production.

4. Prototype and Test

Once the product design is optimized for manufacturability, think of building a prototype. Compiling and testing by various means will be a great way to verify your design and assess if it can be scaled up into production levels without the occurrence of problems. This helps bring out unforeseen problems that possibly might not have been seen in the design stage.

5. Leverage DFM software and tools

Use software-specific tools that aid DFM analysis. More and more software-based platforms permit the simulation of manufacturing processes and let experts assess the feasibility of a product. Such tools can be very helpful in pointing out potential flaws in design before the stage of production, saving much time and money in the process. This also enables them to identify certain areas where material use or manufacturing processes may be optimized.

Wrap up

Preparing your firm’s product design for manufacturing is essential for cost-effective and efficient production. Embracing Design for Manufacturing principles will help you streamline the development process, reduce the production cost, improve product quality, and accelerate time-to-market. The main ideas are to simplify designs, use standardized components, avoid manufacturing processes, and integrate the right teams at an early stage.

How Cad Crowd can help

When done right, DFM improves the manufacturing process of your business and, by extension, your business performance as a whole. With proper planning and collaboration, you would optimize your designs for functionality and manufacturability for long-term success in a competitive market. Count on the name Cad Crowd. Request your quote today.

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedIn ✦ X ✦ Cad Crowd

Benefits of 3D Demo Services for Companies’ New Product Inventions and Innovations

Posted on December 25, 2024 by faz_business

Interactive product demos using 3D motion graphics are now one of the most recognized effective tools to put your sales engagements all the way to the top, building a more solid connection with your products or company and your existing and potential clients. These types of demos allow you and your companies to show off new products creatively, highlighting key features to efficiently convey important details to clients.

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What are 3D demo services for products?

Interactive 3D demo services involve presentations, typically a slideshow or video, which allow users to have a more immersive engagement with products. These 3D demos explain the nature of products and their different features.

3D demo services offer a uniquely immersive experience that highlights the features of a product in a way that is more dynamic than traditional slideshows with static images.

Interactive 3D product demos are now becoming an important part of the sales process because they allow prospective customers to have a deeper and more engaging interaction with the product. This one-of-a-kind experience allows them to understand the functionality and value of a product more effectively.

3d demo jewelry store with a moving person

Importance of 3D product demos in the sales cycle

Letting potential customers engage with the product through interactive demos is essential because it offers them a more unforgettable and enticing experience that traditional product presentations can never offer.

If the prospects can see the product in full action from different angles, it can dramatically enhance their overall understanding of all its use cases and features.

The use of interactive product demos as part of the sales cycle can also add a more personal touch to the sales process. The best way to craft product demo videos is with the help of 3D graphics. The most reliable 3D demo services use different software programs to come up with complex 3D visualizations of a product that can adapt to any environment or setting.

3D demo services can create more impactful and relevant presentational content by making sure that the demo is tailored to the specific interests and needs of potential customers.

How to make effective 3D product demos

Some of the best practices for developing interactive 3D product demos include understanding the profiles of the target audience, determining the key features of the product to focus on, and structuring the product demo in such a way that will encourage active participation. It also usually involves the use of storytelling tools such as 3D motion graphics to produce compelling narratives.

Interactive walkthroughs, simulated product usage scenarios, and 3D virtual tours are some of the most popular types of interactive demos for products.

How to personalize 3D product demos for specific uses and applications

Sales teams can tailor their product demos to address the specific requirements and preferences of every prospect by embedding them into personalized sales experiences. This level of personalization can improve the relevance of the demo and its effect on the sales process in general.

The use of interactive 3D product demos for live demos including during sales meetings or demo calls makes use for the real-time adaptation of presentations according to the feedback and reactions of the prospect. This kind of interactivity makes the demo more effective in engaging prospective customers.

Making sure that both the marketing and sales teams work together in using interactive 3D product demos also plays a key role in the effective presentation of the value proposition of the product and making sure that the prospect will receive and understand a cohesive message.

This professional collaboration is also a great way to ensure that the interactive 3D product demos will resonate with the potential customers and are in line with the marketing strategy as a whole.

Why use 3D demos in product tours?

The use of interactive product tours when engaging with potential customers can help effectively highlight the unique selling points and capabilities of the product.

The distinct immersive nature of these interactive demos is what makes them impactful and memorable in conveying the value proposition of a product.

Using interactive demos to showcase the use cases of a product also allows prospects to envision how the product addresses their specific challenges and needs.

This personalized approach can significantly enhance the product tour’s relevance and increase the chance of more conversions.

Adding a personal touch to the product tour experience of potential customers is possible with the help of interactive software that makes way for customizing the content of the demo according to the specific interests, role, and industry of the prospect.

A still from a demo of a 3D drone with large wheels and yellow colors

Benefits of 3D demo services

Here are some of the benefits of 3D demo services that will surely convince companies to use them for their new product inventions and innovations.

VR and AR technologies’ increased recognition is greatly rooted in the sense of involvement and excitement that they can give by allowing people to have real-life, high-resolution 3D models. If you have ever been to the movies, chances are you choose 3D if it is one of the available options to fully experience and immerse in the scenes. 3D has this magic of tricking the mind and making you believe that you are in a different world or reality.

It is no secret that 2D images are usually unsuccessful when it comes to conveying everything about a product even if these images are of high quality. This is why more and more brands are now starting to invest more in visualization after realizing a bit late all its potential effects on the overall shopping experience.

Today, 3D demo services can trigger excitement among customers while promoting products at the same time. 3D product demos can be viewed by customers and even shared on their social media profiles. This can even start a new trend. There’s no need to say that the company is using 3D demo services because the technology itself is already self-explanatory.

Ability to connect with e-Commerce

3D demo services allow marketers to drive more sales online. Imagine a 3D product demo that showcases a consumable element and connects the viewer directly to the page where to buy a kit for that part. Interactive 3D demos can develop a direct path to better engagement in e-commerce.

Gain customer insights and analytics

3D product demos can be monitored and measured. That self-guided discovery that is critical for interactive 3D product demos allows customers to show the B2B marketers the things they might be interested in as well as their specific needs that they might not realize just yet.

This level of engagement with potential customers also offers an indication of the warmth of the prospective sale and helps the sales members to respond accordingly.

Reduce expenses and create better efficiencies

Interactive 3D demo services can also help the sales team save more time. Travel, logistics, and shipping expenses often linked with live demos can be reduced as well. Aside from this, the whole process of developing these 3D product demos doesn’t require significant labor at all.

For instance, most 3D demo services only need CAD files and a few background details on the functions and features of a product to come up with interactive product demos or other similar products that use augmented reality.

The final product may be slick, but the entire process required to get there is quite simple. Some marketers also get more mileage from 3D product demos by repurposing and using them again in other marketing materials.

Bring product benefits and features to life

As the adage goes, seeing is believing. 3D product demos can share the story of your product most compellingly and educationally. You can use these 3D product demos to make sure that the best benefits and features of your product will resonate with potential customers and give them the chance to stay informed with the help of this augmented user-friendly 3D format.

Generate more leads and enable more sales

Interactive 3D product demos are also effective tools that can facilitate the journey of buyers and generate more leads through a sales process with the least amount of friction.

Imagine an ad in Google taking a potential customer to an engaging landing page with interactive 3D configuration with a form to complement it. The customer can then use the form to get in touch with a chatbot or salesperson who can automate initial inquiry communications.

Other supplemental content like case studies and videos nested in interactive product demos can also offer additional resources to customers that can help facilitate conversion and engagement.

Make great first impressions

3D product demos can offer your customers an engaging and inviting experience with your products. Without limitations like physical barriers, 3D product demos generated digitally can give a realistic and an even more personalized environment by being able to look at the products up close. This level of user engagement in interactive 3D demos makes them more memorable, interesting, and fun.

How Cad Crowd can help

You can never stand out while being ridiculously similar with each and every one of your competitors. Contact Cad Crowd today to fully utilize and enjoy the perks and benefits of 3D demo services for all your company’s products and innovations.

Connect with me: LinkedIn ✦ X ✦ Cad Crowd

Understanding the Cost of Prototyping for Product Design Services and Budgeting for Your Company

Posted on December 21, 2024 by faz_business

One of the most crucial stages while designing a new product is the prototyping stage. This is where the magic happens. Prototypes take an abstract idea to a reality stage, hence making it tangible and testable.

They can be used for a great number of iterations, user-testing, and functionality testing before final decisions on large-scale production. However, such a critical stage can be costly; having an idea of some of the factors that add to prototyping expenses is very important in effective budgeting.

This blog discusses the cost of prototyping for product design services and some recommendations firms should make to budget for this process.

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What’s prototyping and why is it necessary?

Prototyping refers to an early version or model of a product developed in order to give an image and test the design, functionality, and usability of the product. It is thought to be a proof of concept to help point out flaws in the design, improve its features, and fine-tune the overall user experience any final products are put into the market. There are various types of prototypes, such as functional prototype, among others depending on purpose.

Near-production prototype: Almost fully developed prototype, which has been subjected to final testing and marketing.
Proof of Concept (PoC): To test a simple idea or concept
Visual prototype: Focuses on the looks, and the product’s functionality isn’t that crucial
Prototyping is essential for several reasons:
It avoids expensive manufacturing mistakes
Quality of your product would improve as it can be iterated on multiple times
It will attract investors, and fund raising since it will give an actual version of your idea.
It enhances the speed of decision making as it gives insight in user experience and also market viability.

Cost of prototyping

The cost of prototyping ranges from a few hundred dollars to several thousands, and this depends on various factors, such as the level of complexity in design, the material used, the kind of prototype in question, and the method or manner of prototyping. Here is an outline of some of the main factors determining the cost of prototyping.

Design complexity

The complexity of your product design is one factor in costing your prototyping. A simple design with less part content, or whose shape can be easily replicated may be more readily prototyped and cheaper, but designs with a lot of mechanical or electrical complexity can run much more expensive. Again, the more detail in your design, the more time and work will go into creating a usable model, making cost go up.

For instance, a simple consumer product, such as a plastic container, will most likely just require fundamental 3D printing, probably inexpensive. On the other hand, a high-tech consumer product with embedded electronics or sensors or special materials will probably use advanced prototyping techniques most likely to be costly.

Materials

The type of material being used in the prototyping greatly determines the final cost. Prototypes can be made from any type of material, including plastics, metals, and composites, and the pricing and processing are also different for various materials. Aerospace-grade alloys or specially constructed polymers really drive the cost up drastically from standard plastics or 3D printing material.

• CNC Machining: High in precision, very well suited to the metal prototypes, though equipment and material costs will be steep in this type of prototype.

• Handcrafting: Handcrafting with inexpensive material is used for simple models.

• Injection Moulding: It can be applied for rugged prototypes. But it is expensive due to the development of moulds.

Prototyping technique

There are several ways a prototype can be prepared, each with related costs. Among some common techniques used include:

3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): 3D printing is the most widely used technology in rapid prototyping. The payoff in using 3D printing is that it rapidly converts digital models into physical products through a wide array of materials, sometimes very quickly with short production time and flexible design but soon becomes expensive in material and machine time.

• Casting: Casting is used for a wide range of products. It is much more manual intensive than injection molding. Cost in casting depends upon the material and the complexity of the material.

• CNC Machining: Cutting, drilling, or milling of plastic, metal, or composites into a desired shape. This is a precise process to detail and has a cost to it, meaning it’s rather pricey. Thus, it’s more applicable for functional prototypes.

•Injection Moulding: Injection moulding is a very fast and cost-effective method of producing significant quantities of proto-typed items, especially for articles that require strength. However, the cost incurred when making design and building tooling is very great at the very beginning.

Outsourcing vs. in-house prototyping services

Finally, the greatest decision concerning prototyping has to do with whether the task should be outsourced to a professional service or done in-house. Each has its pros and cons.

In-house prototyping: Companies with appropriate and readily available equipment, such as 3D printers or CNC machines, etc. usually resort to in-house prototyping due to cost-cutting reasons. It is suitable for simpler prototypes or circumstances wherein the rate of iteration is high. It, however, requires significant investment in machinery, expertise, and maintenance, thus proved to be quite cost-effective for large companies or frequent prototyping requirements.

• Professional service contracting: Many product design houses are professional services firms specializing in prototyping. They can provide full service: from design consultancy, material selectivity, and production of the prototype. The tools, expertise, and resources it has are all among those that can lead to quality prototypes. It is very costly, around $1,000 to $20,000, depending on the level of complexity.

Prototype iteration and testing

Most products require many iterations to the final. Each iteration provides a chance to test the design, even up to the response from the users, as well as to make necessary adjustments or for some r`esults in the performance. This is costly because every version will be demanding new materials, labor, and other resources.

Testing is another prototyping activity. Testing may include performance in physical settings, usability by the users, or compatibility tests with other systems. The more intense testing will be the more expensive prototyping phase is going to be.

Timeline

The cost may also depend on how soon you need the prototype done. When there is a time constraint, sometimes it means hastening up the process, and this would cost more based on rushed shipping and more man-hours or faster production methods.

Estimating prototyping costs

It is great to estimate prototyping costs early in the development process so that budgets could align with needs. Normally, prototyping cost would be broken down as follows:

• Low-Cost Prototypes: The estimated range is from $100 up to $2,000, which depends on its simplicity, like 3D-printed prototypes or a basic functional model, depending on the materials and production method used.

• Mid-Level Prototypes: With CNC machining, in metal parts or with small runs of injection-molded products, the costs will run from $2,000 to $10,000.

• High-End Prototypes: More detailed or even complex prototypes with sophisticated materials or electronic components may reach between $10,000 and $50,000 or more for multiple iterations.

These costs differ based on the factors enumerated above, so it is essential to collaborate closely with your product development team to create a detailed budget.

Prototyping budgeting in your company

To budget effectively for prototyping, consider the following steps:

1. Define goals and requirements: State exactly which kind of prototype is needed (proof of concept, functional, visual, or near-preproduction). Determine the level of detail, materials, or functionality that needs to be tested.

2. Choose the Right Prototyping Method Depending on your goals, choose the right prototyping method. Quick iterations can be ideal with 3D printing, while CNC machining or injection molding can be good options for functional or production-ready prototypes.

3. Iteration: Several prototypes can be expected, especially in the refinement phase. Since iteration impacts time and resources, keep these costs in your mind while planning your budget.

4. Collaboration with a Design Consultant: If after reading you are still unsure how to factor in the cost breakdown into your budget, then collaboration with a design consultant can further help break it down and clarify the options. Many product design services can offer affordable prototyping solutions based on individual needs.

5. Contingency fund: Always put aside some amount of your budget for unintended costs. Prototyping can be unpredictable sometimes, and having a contingency fund will always get you through those unknown costs.

6. Set for Long-term savings: Though an initial investment, prototyping will save one money in the long run as it limits production mistakes and maximizes the final product’s market success.

Wrap up

Prototyping is another development stage where huge involvement with costs and resources is incurred. Knowing what affects prototyping costs as well as how to plan a budget can help businesses prepare for this very important phase of their product design process.

How Cad Crowd can help

Regardless of whether you are manufacturing something that falls in the category of simple or is more complex, an investment in a proper prototype will mean better outcomes in terms of quality, product, and standing in the market. Cad Crowd will ensure you are at the top of the game. Request a quote today.

Connect with me: LinkedIn ✦ X ✦ Cad Crowd

High Quality CAD Lighting Fixture Design for Architectural Firms

Posted on December 1, 2024 by faz_business

No matter how sunny a house or building is, there will always be some dark spots here and there. Unfortunately, it is often challenging for architectural and interior design firms to design lighting in these areas. They need schemes that can provide adequate illumination and allow the lighting to match the intended emotions and tasks. Rooms and areas tend to be dark for many different reasons, including small windows or the lack of them in the first place.

There are also instances when the structure faces north, or certain external features form a shade throughout the day. No matter the cause, proper CAD lighting fixture design services can go a long way to ensure that no area becomes dull and dreary. Here are a few design tips that your architectural and interior design firm can use on your next projects.

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CAD lighting fixture design for architectural firms and interior design detail

Observe color consistency

When adding lighting fixtures in any room, not just in darker areas, it’s essential that their color temperature is the same. Color temperature is indicated in Kelvin. Installing a mix of warm and cold lights in one area is not just unpleasant to the eyes and can also cause debilitating headaches. The ideal solution here is to opt for dimmable lights. If you need brighter and colder light during the daytime, you don’t have to give up on the relaxing warm glow at night. Dimmers will let you have it all. Having options is also always better in this case.

Illuminate low ceilings properly

Rooms often seem dark due to low ceilings, as in the case for basements. Installing pendant lights will only make the ceiling seem lower. The best solution for the 3D lighting fixture design professional is to install recessed lights into the ceiling’s void. The right lighting fixtures can produce ambient light while making the room look and feel bright. These types of lighting fixtures are perfect for winding down and relaxing at night.

Add the right lampshades

Dark lampshades are a no-no if you want your CAD design to exude the feeling of a well-lit space. Metallic lampshades, such as gold, are often a better choice as they produce a warmer tone of light.

Harness the magic of mirrors

While lighting fixtures can produce light, you can use certain tricks in your design to help distribute light further. This is where mirrors come in handy. Mirrors further enhance the daylight in a dark room to make it look and feel brighter. They can also make the space brighter, bigger, and more dramatic. If possible, feature large fixed mirrors on long walls.

The 3D product design expert can also move floor-standing mirrors around the space to produce a different feeling. Mirrors can help boost both artificial and natural lighting. These can be positioned at the back of table lamps or installed on the wall right in line with the pendant lighting fixtures.

Use the power of downlights

Downlights are common solutions for both commercial and residential applications. You can choose the correct color of the trim and depth of the fixture so the lighting blends seamlessly with the rest of the design. You can choose from different beam options for downlights that you can distribute all over the space to provide the light required in specific parts of the room. The 3D interior rendering designer can install smaller downlights, for example in the corner of a room to achieve the illusion of daylight.

To achieve a better effect, dimmers can also be used in place of switches to help control the light intensity during daytime. If the client prefers lights on a dimmer, see to it that the lights used are dimmable in the first place. This detail is often indicated in the specifications of every lighting fixture.

Think verticals and horizontals

Consider illumination three-dimensionally. Creating several sources of warm light is the secret to achieving excellent lighting in dark areas. Several lighting fixtures can be installed at different levels. Floor or table lamps are ideal for shady corners. For rooms with higher ceilings, it’s best if the 3D architectural visualization services adds a chandelier with glass elements right in the center. The glass material will allow the light to bounce across the room.

Consider bright wall colors and wall washers

Lighting fixtures toward a bright wall can add luminance to the room. Bright-colored walls are the key here, and physics can do the job. This will give the space a more sophisticated feel and create a cozy ambiance at night.

Determine the purpose of the space

While general rules apply to different spaces of a residential or commercial building, it’s imperative to know the specific role and purpose of the room to achieve the best CAD lighting fixture design. Envision yourself using the space:

Will it be your client’s entertainment room?

Will it be a private space where they will wind down to spend some time alone to play the piano or read a book?

No matter what it is, it’s important to know the purpose of the space or area in the first place. Once you’ve determined the function of the room, that’s the best time to plan the layout of the lighting fixtures in your CAD design.

Tips to create more effective CAD lighting fixture designs

Here are some helpful tips for creating more effective CAD lighting fixture designs:

1. Use the best CAD software

CAD software programs are not made equal as far as lighting design is concerned. Choose one that has functions and features that meet your specific preferences and needs. Other factors to keep in mind are compatibility with the existing hardware and software you’re using, ease of customization and usage, availability of training and support, licensing options, and cost.

2. Define lighting goals and requirements

Before you draw and model your lighting fixture design, you must have a clear idea of what your client wants to achieve and the challenges and constraints you might face. Consider the function and purpose of the space, the desired atmosphere and mood, the sources of artificial and natural light, the budget and energy consumption, and the standards and codes applicable to the project.

CAD software can create lighting plans that outline the quantity, type, and location of light fixtures along with the control and wiring systems. Identifying lighting goals and requirements is critical to creating effective CAD lighting fixture designs. Clear specifications on lighting uniformity, color temperatures, and illumination levels can serve as a guide for the process of CAD design.

You can use CAD tools to simulate and model various lighting scenarios to allow adjustment and precise placement of lighting fixtures. You can integrate these requirements in your CAD design to analyze and envision the lighting design before implementation to ensure desired goals are met. This approach can reduce costs, optimize energy efficiency, and produce an aesthetically pleasing and well-lit space.

3. Use 3D rendering and modeling tools

One of the benefits for lighting fixture designers using CAD software is that it lets them come up with lifelike realistic 3D renderings and models of the space and its lighting solutions. It lets you envision how the lighting fixture design will perform and look in different conditions and scenarios, including night and day, cloudy and sunny, bright and dim, and others. CAD software can also be used for testing and comparing various lighting conditions like distribution, direction, luminosity, and color temperature.

4. Perform lighting simulations and calculations

The use of CAD software for lighting fixture design can help you perform reliable and accurate lighting simulations and calculations that can help optimize lighting design for quality and efficiency. CAD software can be used to analyze and measure different lighting parameters like color rendering, uniformity, contrast, glare, and luminance. The program can also be used to simulate the lighting design’s effects on the environment, like energy savings, carbon emissions, and heat generation.

Several lighting parameters should be considered as these may have a significant effect on your lighting design. The use of software tools can give you insight into the efficiency of the design as it will give you the analysis that shows your lighting design’s level of effectiveness, quality, and accuracy.

5. Incorporate revisions and feedback

Getting the perfect lighting design right on the first try doesn’t exist. You need to incorporate revisions and feedback from your clients, stakeholders, and colleagues to ensure that the design will meet their requirements and expectations. CAD software can easily update and adjust the lighting design according to the suggestions and comments you receive. You can also use the program to produce and share various alternatives and versions of the lighting design for assessment and approval.

6. Document and present the lighting design

Document the lighting design and present it convincingly and professionally. Use the right CAD software to produce and export high-quality reports, renderings, models, and drawings that showcase the design’s benefits and features.

How Cad Crowd can help

Contact Cad Crowd today and find the best professionals for your CAD lighting fixture design needs!

Connect with me: LinkedIn ✦ X ✦ Cad Crowd

Complete Guide to Cosmetic Label Design and Packaging for Beauty Product Companies

Posted on November 2, 2024 by faz_business

Aesthetic matters and it matters a lot! That’s a fact you can’t deny! Your cosmetic label design and packaging are the primary elements that customers come into contact with right at the get-go. Even if you have the best products, everything will be futile if you don’t label them properly. The look and feel of product labels can never be made otherwise. Labels and packaging are the best and easiest way to leave a lasting good impression on customers.

Several key factors must be taken into consideration when designing the label and packaging of your beauty and cosmetic products. This article serves as a complete guide to cosmetic label design and packaging concept design services for beauty product companies. Here are the nine stages involved in designing cosmetic labels and packaging:

Complete guide to cosmetic label design and packaging for beauty product companies

1. Choose a suitable visual language

Your cosmetic label and packaging’s visual language plays a critical role. Make sure you choose one that will perfectly reflect your product and brand. The right visual language will convey the correct feeling to your end customers.

2. Identify the style of the product label

The specific style of the cosmetic label design and packaging will largely depend on your target audience. If your target audience belongs to a younger demographic, you should opt for a more extravagant style. On the other hand, if your target market is more sophisticated or elegant, the right choice is a minimalist label.

If your brand is already a popular historical one, you will surely want to stick to a more traditional style. Modern beauty companies, in contrast, can enjoy the perks of letting their imagination go wild. This will allow the cosmetic packaging design firm to design custom product labels for eye-catching items. The main point here is to know how to be daring while staying faithful to your existing brand.

3. Pick the right images

After defining the basic design of your label and packaging, it’s time to choose the images you will use. The best advice here is to use images that best represent the uniqueness of your product or brand. Dig deep and pinpoint the elements that set you apart from other similar products on the market, including your production method, ingredients, and the like.

4. Determine the size and shape of the label design and packaging

The next step is to pick the size and shape of your product label design and packaging. You can opt for a standard label size and shape or choose something custom that will make your product stand out. Choose a different label on the front and back of the package. You can also go for a wraparound label.

5. Opt for readable characters

Whether you believe it or not, the specific typeface you use is equally important too. Using the correct font will allow you to convey the correct message and establish the personality of your brand. While it can be tempting to use more imaginative and creative fonts, all your efforts will go down the drain if readability is not guaranteed, making it extremely critical.

6. Find the right color

When the packaging designer chooses the color, there are three primary factors that should be paid close attention to:

Select a color palette aligned with your brand’s personality.
The color should attract the attention and capture the interest of potential consumers.
You have to stand out from your competition.

In highly competitive markets like beauty and cosmetics, strict attention should be given to the smallest detail, although this is often underestimated. For instance, your brand’s cornerstones are respect for raw materials and sustainability. In cases like this, green is undoubtedly a color that will recall nature and health, which makes it a great choice to consider.

The choice can also include pastel and soft colors that exude delicacy and are simultaneously original compared to competitors. You can opt for lively and bold tones like fuchsia, turquoise, and yellow for a younger and more modern product. On the other hand, if you prefer a simple but elegant label, the packaging design company can never go wrong with white and black and possibly add some touches of glamour with a copper or silver finish.

7. Decide on the material

The material you choose must also be in line with your brand and reflect the primary characteristics you wish to communicate with your customers. If you want your brand to stand out for its natural ingredients and eco-sustainability, the good news is that you can choose from a plethora of natural anti-pulping papers. These include laid paper, marked paper, and cotton that tactfully return the concept of simplicity while respecting the planet.

On the other hand, if you prefer something more avant-garde and more impactful, you can go for unique cards that exude modernity and a premium feel. In such cases, the most obvious choice is matte-coated or glossy paper. However, you can also consider other materials like transparent polypropylene or silver metallic paper that will give the product a distinct no-label look.

8. Enter the right information

Several critical pieces of information must also be indicated in your cosmetic label design and packaging. These details include the following:

Compliance with labeling requirements mandated by regulatory bodies

All countries have their regulatory bodies that decide the labeling requirements for beauty and cosmetic products, and companies should adhere to these. In the United States, for example, there is the FDA or Food and Drug Administration, while Italy has the Ministry of Health.

The respective regulatory bodies regulate every country equally. Thus, one thing to consider when designing the labels and packaging of your beauty products is compliance with the regulations as directed by your country’s regulatory body for beauty and cosmetics labeling.

Declaration of product identity or identity

The declaration of product identity or identity, more popularly called the PDP or principal display panel, is an integral part of a product label. The order of identity refers to the name of the product together with the product’s net weight. This should be indicated on the front of the product package. You also need to put the product’s common name and its specific type, whether it’s a cream, soap, eyeliner, or the like.

Information panel

All beauty and cosmetic packages must have an information panel that includes the declaration of ingredients, the warning statement, and the manufacturer’s address. Every single ingredient must be listed in descending order. This means listing first the ingredient with the highest percentage in the product, followed by the most elevated rate after number two, and so on.

Net weight or net content

The net product content indicates the quantity of the product. The net content should be in terms of weight for semi-solid or solid products. Meanwhile, the net content should be stated in terms of volume for liquid products. See to it that the net content should be placed at the lower part of the front label. The net content must not be higher or lower compared to the actual content.

Warnings

It’s also important for manufacturing design services to mention warnings on certain beauty and cosmetic products like products that contain alpha hydroxyl acids, cosmetic aerosols, and deodorant sprays to avoid endangering the health of consumers. This is especially true for certain products that contain contents that could be flammable under pressure like product sprays. This warning statement should be mentioned for it to be easily legible and prominent at the time of the product purchase.

9. Perform printing tests

Proofing your cosmetic label design and packaging is essential, especially if you are planning to launch a new product on the market and prefer a selective test that will help you make a wise decision. Here are the benefits of printing proof for cosmetic label design and packaging:

It lets you pick the right material.
It helps identify errors in the file.
Look for suitable color combinations.
It reduces testing costs.
It allows testing the extra machining.

This cosmetic label printing test will let you touch a proper reproduction of the product label on plastic or paper, which you can use during the production process and in future processes. Packaging experts can recommend the most appropriate way to perform a print test for cosmetic label design and packaging.

How Cad Crowd can help

Convincing your target customers to choose and buy your products is never easy. However, you can easily do so as long as you have quality cosmetic label design and packaging. Properly labeled beauty and cosmetics products will not just help your customers but even your brand.

Contact Cad Crowd and we will be more than happy to assist you. We will help you find the best professionals who will be there for you right from the conception to the final production stage of your cosmetic label design and packaging for your beauty products. Call us today and we will get back to you right away!

Latest Food and Beverage Packaging Design Trends for Companies and Firms

Posted on October 19, 2024 by faz_business

The industry of food and beverage packaging design evolves and improves every single day, driven by technological advancements and the ever-changing preferences of modern consumers. The packaging landscape is gearing up for yet another significant transformation this year. It is more critical than ever for companies and firms to stay on top of these developments to thrive and succeed in the cutthroat and fiercely competitive market.

This article explores food and beverage packaging design trends for companies and firms right now:

Food and beverage packaging design trends for companies and firms

Adoption of digital print

Digital finishing and print continue reshaping food and beverage packaging design services as they revolutionize packaging production. An increasing number of brands have now opted to use digital print from the beginning because of its top-notch print quality and indisputable advantages to the supply chain. These benefits include flexible quantities of orders, reduced waste, and faster lead time, which are challenging to deliver for traditional methods of production with a similar agility level.

More and more brands are expected to take advantage of web-to-print, digital print, and other digital tools to improve their strategy for custom packaging sourcing. Brands with an established presence in retail avenues that help boost brand identity and awareness are expected to switch to digital print if they haven’t done so yet. In a modern market crowded with products, quick-to-market and stunning packaging can be inexpensively customized to a particular audience to help brands stay ahead of their competition. In such cases, digital print is the perfect solution.

Packaging makers continue investing resources in digital finishing and print. Those who lack financial means outsource new concept design & product development services to cater to the growing demand. It strongly indicates that digital print is expected to continue dominating the market soon.

E-commerce-first approach

Most brands today are born online, catering to e-commerce customers right from the get-go. For this reason, e-commerce packaging shouldn’t be a mere add-on afterthought. Instead, it should be the first format that any brand that wishes to succeed online must develop. Online shopping is projected to continue driving demand for specialized solutions for e-commerce packaging, which include poly bags, custom inserts, custom mailers, various void fill solutions, and more. A big chunk of retail purchases are anticipated to happen online. Since consumers have gotten used to shopping without stepping outside their houses, it is expected to be the new normal soon.

Handling of returns is among the most critical aspects of e-commerce. As an important facet of the online shopping experience, online brands must also consider returns as a great opportunity. Formats of e-commerce shipping boxes that simplify the return process for consumers, particularly for apparel items and fashion design companies, can help improve customer loyalty and satisfaction. Online shoppers will favor brands that adopt a robust strategy for e-commerce packaging.

Consumer-centric packaging design

Before you start designing your food and beverage packaging, you must truly understand what your target audience is looking for. Do you need to consider some distinct visual cues? What are the most appealing colorways for your consumers? Should you follow an instructional or informational route for your packaging? These questions can help you understand the best design that will connect the most with your target audience. Solid insight and knowledge of consumers can help you produce some of the finest design work.

Blindly following trends, hoping that something will stick, will only put you at risk of getting lost in the crowd or not even connecting with the target audience. Make sure you do your research first, though, to understand who you are making the design for. Using this information will help the packaging concept design firm create packaging that will resonate with consumers.

Unique shapes to the rescue

Packaging with customized shapes is expected to become a powerful tool for making your brand easily recognizable and different from others in the market. Distinct geometric shapes, eye-catching patterns, and intricate cut-outs on labels are and will continue to capture consumers’ interest and attention. Remember that attention is the newest currency. If your brand recognizes this, you should invest more in packaging that will make your products stand out even on overcrowded offline and online shelves.

However, there is more to the trend of packaging with unique shapes than aesthetics alone. It also serves as a tangible way of conveying the values and identity of your brand. It’s not just about vivid colors or compelling typography. Brands should use the packaging itself to tell a unique story. While other brands use fonts and colors to stand out, packaging designers using shapes as decorative elements are guaranteed to create longer-lasting and stronger impressions compared to their direct competitors.

Go eco-friendly

Most consumers today prefer brands that advocate sustainability. As a result, companies and firms are under increasing pressure to cater to this, which explains the traction of so-called green packaging. However, only a small percentage of consumers shop from such brands. Although eco-friendly product packaging is popular, it might not always be realistic. Even with broadcasted media’s prevalent environmental awareness, such as Blue Planet, many people still don’t actively contribute to reducing their carbon footprint.

However, it’s expected that consumers will continue to have new expectations when it comes to packaging. Consumers just feel that they can’t act as eco-friendly as they like to because the best practices leave them baffled. It’s important to consider how to simplify and clarify recycling communications as much as possible. Some brands, for example, are using color-coded packaging that aligns with the designated recycling bins to reduce consumers’ cognitive effort.

Eco-friendly and consumer-first packaging might not overlap easily in terms of design. An excessive focus on consumers may lead to ego-driven design briefs. On the other hand, consumers might feel alienated if the design focuses more on the environment. To prevent these issues, consumer research is critical. Solid research will help you achieve the right balance and develop a packaging design that is environmentally conscious and appeals to your target market.

AI-aided packaging design

The past year has seen the undeniable impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in almost all industries. In the food and beverage packaging design industry, AI is also making significant changes in the design process as designs aided by AI technology continue to rise. With AI tools now easily incorporated into professional software platforms, they are expected to be used further by structural and graphic designers to offer more efficient means of refining and ideating packaging concepts. This will also pave the way for the creation of production-ready graphics.

In the next years, AI will revolutionize not just packaging design but also other areas of packaging management, including automation, supply chain management, and manufacturing. AI may soon be used to manage inventory levels, cut down shipping costs, estimate demand, and search for ways to streamline different business operations. Food and beverage brands embracing the use of AI tools are poised to perform better than those that don’t.

Immersive experience

Offering immersive experiences for customers through packaging now significantly impacts overall brand experiences. The next few years will likely witness the combination of packaging and technology quickly gaining momentum. NFC tags, QR codes, and the services of augmented reality experts are becoming increasingly popular in interactive packaging. Scanning these allows consumers to access brand-exclusive offers, special promotions, or additional information. Aside from creating a more memorable and engaging consumer experience, it also helps differentiate your brand from the rest.

Packaging designs will eventually be seen as purely existing in the digital sphere. The designs might be exclusively featured online to lure buyers to make a purchase. After ordering the product, it will then arrive inside a standardized cardboard box. This is an innovative means to strike the right balance between making a visual impact that doesn’t compromise sustainability. As overconsumption becomes a serious issue, your brand will surely stand out more if you show a proactive approach that doesn’t jeopardize product experience or quality.

Sustainable materials

Sustainable materials are now a central point in the packaging industry, and the trend is expected to grow further in the coming years. As consumers become increasingly aware of the impact of packaging on the planet, demand for environmentally friendly packaging solutions will continue to rise. These solutions are made from recycled materials and are compostable and biodegradable.

Recent years have witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of companies and firms that embrace sustainable initiatives, and the trend will gain further traction in the coming years. Companies now recognize the essence of aligning with eco-conscious consumers as they define their ESG goals and work to cut down their carbon emissions to support the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

How Cad Crowd can help

Keeping up with the food and beverage packaging design trends for companies and firms is the secret to selling more products, satisfying customers, and increasing market share. Cad Crowd can connect you with the best packaging designers who will help you stay ahead of your competition.

What Are New Product Development Costs, Design Services Rates, And Pricing for Your Company?

Posted on August 3, 2024 by faz_business

An idea only lives in your mind until it gets materialized. No matter how brilliant and groundbreaking the idea is, the path to transforming a concept into a tangible product can be tricky, except when you get help from a reputable design agency or an industrial designer. Sometimes, it is helpful to take a step back before getting carried away by excitement and figure out how much money could be involved in a product development.

It is difficult to say whether the cost will exceed any given amount. The problem is that even small changes in the product’s dimension, prototyping method, material, and appearance can trigger a series of significant expenses unless you have professionals to take things under control. Every product development process presents its challenges, and the exact cost depends on a collection of factors such as design complexity, selection of materials, prototyping technique, and timeline to completion. Hiring a design firm sounds like an additional expense, but it probably is the only thing to prevent you from overspending in the first place.

The Average Cost of Product Development

If you want a general estimate, the ballpark figure would be $30,000 for a modestly complex non-electronic product with a completely brand-new design rather than a copy of an existing one. For example, you are developing a unique round-shaped Rubik’s Cube (so it is not a cube at all) of which the individual pieces – when properly arranged – would resemble the look of Planet Earth seen from space or the new product in question a miniature V-block internal combustion engine with real moving parts like valves and pistons. Still, it has an unusual configuration of 13 cylinders.

The $30,000 mark is likely the minimum to develop a relatively simple product. The money should cover every process, including design, prototype, performance/usability test, and (very) low-volume production of the product’s final version. Mass manufacturing and launching a new product require much more money. Also, the more sophisticated the product is, the higher the investment. Developing a modern complex electronic product is notoriously expensive, reaching hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars; much goes to electrical engineering alone. One of the most notable examples is the iRobot Roomba Vacuum Cleaner, which cost a jaw-dropping $50 million to develop.

On the other hand, a non-electronic product development is typically more budget-friendly than an electric gadget or anything controllable via a smartphone app. For instance, designing a simple kitchen utensil might cost around $ 5,000 to $ 10,000, while a more complex consumer electronics product could range from $ 20,000 to $ 50,000. Hiring a firm to handle the development process might cost anywhere from $30,000 to $60,000 in the United States and Canada. For the money, the firm can help turn your idea into an attractive, functioning, “manufacturable” product design. The services generally include CAD modeling and visualization, prototyping, and manufacturing schematics. If you partner with a firm, the cost might even cover the expenses for market research.

Industrial Designer’s Rates

Designing and developing a product involves a series of tasks that fall within the expertise of an industrial designer. According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), an industrial designer typically undertakes the following exercises:

Consult with clients about product design parameters
Sketch design ideas and produce 3D models or visualizations
Create physical prototypes
Conduct usability tests to identify issues and collect information on users’ satisfaction with the product.
Research materials and equipment to be used for manufacturing
Perform design analysis to evaluate functions, safety, appearance, and practicality
Present a finished design or final prototype

An industrial engineer may work with other professionals from related fields, such as mechanical engineers and prototype design engineers, to determine whether the design is manufacturable at an efficient cost. Some industrial designers are self-employed, so you can hire one without working with a design firm. The hourly rate of an industrial designer can vary depending on factors such as their experience, location, and the project’s complexity. Based on the latest available data (May 2020) from BLS, the median wage of industrial designers in the United States is $36.50 per hour.

Industrial Designers’ Pay (United States)

Percentile	Annual	Hourly Rate
Highest 10%	$125,780	$60.47
Median	$75,910	$36.50
Lowest 10%	$43,680	$21.00

Note that the median wage only estimates the profession’s typical (rather than average) rate. Experienced industrial designers most likely occupy the highest 10% category.

The work of an industrial designer ends when the product design is certified for safety and ready for mass production. However, certification and manufacturing are beyond the scope of the hourly rate. An industrial designer can help you handle the certification process, establish a partnership with a manufacturer, and oversee the production run. Still, all those things require funds outside the industrial designer’s budget.

Certification

No matter how experienced and reputable, an industrial engineer cannot certify your product for safety or compliance with national and international standards. You will need third-party certification agencies to inspect the product and issue the relevant certifications. The cost of certifications can vary depending on the product specifications. For example, a basic safety certification for a non-electronic product might cost around $ 500, while a more comprehensive certification for an electronic product could exceed $ 10,000. The cost varies from less than $100 to more than $15,000, depending on the product specifications.

Suppose the plan is to sell the product in the United States, Canada, Europe, or any of those regions. In that case, certifications can improve the chances of making sales, given the market’s competitive nature. Certifications are only crucial for electronic products. However, this is only partially true because even simple things like mechanical toys and showerheads are subject to various standards relevant to the products’ intended usage. Some of the most common certifications that may apply for non-electronic products include:

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) badge indicates that a product meets the standards set by the organizations, including but not limited to the flammability of plastic materials and fire endurance.

CSA (Canadian Standards Association) mark signifies compliance with functional safety standards applicable in Canada and the United States. The association also certifies products made through environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and mechanical components equipped with reliable safety measures to prevent dangerous failures.

WaterSense logo proclaims the product’s conformity with EPA’s standards for efficiency and performance. The certification is issuable to non-electronic products such as showerheads or faucets.

Green Seal stamp declares the product’s low environmental impact as observed from its minimum toxicity and resource conservation.

Unless the safety, efficiency, and performance standards require compliance by law, product certifications for those aspects are voluntary. That said, your product could get certified by recognized organizations to gain a competitive advantage.

Low Cost yet Efficient

Everyone, from the tiniest startups to the largest corporations, wants to keep development costs low and get optimized results. There is no need to waste money when you can save it. One of the primary keys to efficiency is lean product development practices. A lean process involves minimum waste and a short development cycle without sacrificing product quality.

While it is not impossible to keep it lean on your own, there is the likelihood of overlooking essential details that can make a design more efficient. Furthermore, you may need more tools to exercise the principle, such as CAD systems, CNC machines, a high-grade 3D printer, and general expertise in market research. Another thing to consider is how a tiny error in modeling or a seemingly minor compromise in the material can lead to costly design revisions.

Although an experienced industrial engineer might only personally own some possible tools for physical prototyping, he likely knows how to access all the required resources efficiently. The same applies to a design firm with a complete product development facility. Even if the firm doesn’t have an extensive facility, it has the experience of partnering with prototype makers, material suppliers, and custom manufacturing companies. More importantly, an individual industrial designer or a design firm understands how complex and intricate a product development process can be; they know how to minimize the cost by keeping the unnecessaries at bay and focusing on the essentials.

Collaborative Effort

Good product developers should keep you involved throughout the process, from the concept phase to certifications, until the design is ready for manufacturing. Based on your description of the product idea, they will be able to offer a comprehensive quote on the development cost. After the initial discussions, an experienced product engineer can define all the steps required to build the product and how much each step should cost. To avoid unpleasant surprises, you will get a full expense breakdown from the get-go.

End Note

Engineering designer services answer all the questions presented by the market research. There is some truth in how the market can dictate a new product, but engineering expertise opens the door to creativity. Following the concept creation and market research, it is the industrial engineer’s turn to take over the process and devise a solution to tackle every challenge the market may throw at your idea.

What are the Costs for New Hardware Product Design, PCB Prototyping Rates, and Company Services Pricing?

Posted on July 27, 2024 by faz_business

It is a broad question with no single correct answer. Combining a functional PCB with a hardware product design is practically building an electronic product. And just like the question in the beginning, it is a broad category of products, from a simple everyday device like a USB drive to a state-of-the-art avalanche probe.

Developing a USB thumb drive design takes little more than purchasing ready-made flash drive boards and connectors. Then, you can get creative with the enclosure design using CAD software and a consumer-grade 3D printer. Since you don’t need to hire an experienced mechanical engineer to lead the project and partner with a custom prototype maker, the overall development cost for the new enclosure will not exceed several hundred dollars.

The latter is at an entirely different level of sophistication. Take the AvaTech SP1 Smartprobe as an example; the GPS-enabled device connects to a user’s smartphone via Bluetooth and is equipped with an accelerometer and an inclinometer as well as a ranger finder – all in addition to a whole bunch of optical depth sensors and a custom digital force sensor. It collects data from the surrounding environment and sends them to the smartphone to help the user avoid triggering an avalanche when skiing. It probably took the company around a million dollars to have it developed, tested, and certified. In general, simple consumer electronic products are less expensive to build and bring to market than complex, specialized, high-tech solutions.

Hardware Design Cost and PCB Prototyping Rates

The scope of the term “hardware product design” must be clearly defined as well. Building an electronic product with a 3D printer and a prototype platform, such as an actuator kit, should not require more than $50,000 upfront investment. However, you may need anywhere between $200,000 and $300,000 to make the product at least presentable to potential buyers. The development requires a thorough product design process and plenty of engineering input, so much money goes to hiring mechanical and electronics engineers. If the plan is to prepare the design for mass production, you may need an even more significant investment.

Design complexity is among the most significant factors affecting development costs. While a large company can afford to have a few failures during market readiness, a small startup should focus on keeping things simple to avoid costly mistakes.

Design studios

A complete range of product development services from a small design studio can cost up to $60,000 for concept creation, 3D modeling, physical prototyping, and testing. An electronic product with a user interface via screen or mobile app requires software development, which can easily double the investment requirement.

Freelance engineers

Hiring freelance engineers is more expensive than partnering with a design studio regarding electronic product development. To build a quality product design, you need a dedicated team of at least a mechanical, electronics, and software engineer. A project manager is also necessary to oversee the process and collaboration. A software engineer is required when the product is supposed to work with a computer or smartphone; otherwise, it is a permissible omission.

PCB prototyping requires firmware integration, a task best left to the electronics engineer. Firmware is low-level software embedded in PCB hardware components, whereas an app is high-level programming typically handled by computer scientists or software engineers. For most electronic products, app/software development is only necessary after going through PCB prototyping and firmware integration stages.

In other words, a small design team of mechanical engineers and electronics engineers alone should be enough to get the job done up until the point of PCB prototyping. Hardware/enclosure development occurs after PCB prototyping because both parts must be fitted to each other. If the PCB layout features USB ports, audio jack, buttons, and knobs, the enclosure needs to accommodate the parts. According to the BLS, the typical rates for electronics and mechanical engineers are as follows:

Hourly Rates

Occupation	Lowest 10%	Median	Highest 10%
Mechanical Engineers	$29.80	$46.30	$72.72
Electronics / Electrical Engineers	$36.00	$52.00	$82.42

Since the data is based only on the pay rate of mechanical and electronics engineers in the United States, the most significant factor between the hourly rate gaps is the experience level instead of location.

The hourly rates are manageable. You must consider the expected development timeline until a functional PCB is prototyped and a hardware enclosure is built. An electronics engineer must complete a series of procedures before a layout is ready for prototyping. Such methods include producing a Bill of Materials based on preliminary evaluation, drawing schematics, and designing the PCB layout. The whole process can take several months. After the PCB prototyping, the electronics engineer performs the firmware integration; these tasks need another month to complete.

A mechanical designer begins the work by drawing a 3D model of the enclosure based on the dimensions and specifications of the PCB prototype. You will have to wait at least a month for a simple enclosure design and up to 6 months for a complex one. Access to a 3D printer can speed up the enclosure prototyping work, which should not take more than a week. Preparing the design for mass production, usually with injection molding technique, can be a tedious 4-week process.

Professional Product Design Services

Most product development firms offer a complete range of services, including PCB prototyping, encompassing the typical step-by-step progression of a hardware design creation.

Concept evaluation: At the end of a concept evaluation phase, a design firm should develop several design iterations based on your original idea. The point is to revise your idea and improve a rough design into its best possible refined version. Good communication is the key to ensuring that you and the firm are on the same page so the project may progress quickly.

Product schematics: the design firm produces a Bill of Materials based on the product schematic drawn on a computer. BoM lists all electrical components and materials required to build the product. It is the part where you get a clear idea of how much it would cost to develop an enclosure design and build a PCB inside it.

PCB layout and enclosure model: an electronics engineer creates a digital PCB layout. The software will verify the design at the end of the process to see whether the configuration is correct and by the schematic. At the same time, a mechanical engineer produces 3D models of the enclosure design. Development for the enclosure goes slowly during the early stages, but it picks up the pace once the PCB prototype is ready. The 3D models function only as visualizations. You can also order a lifelike render if needed.

PCB prototyping: The PCB prototype takes about a week to complete. Generally, be prepared to have 3 – 5 PCB layout prototypes for the first run. You need another prototyping run after some tests, evaluations, and revisions to fix potential functionality issues. Increase the order quantity to have enough product samples for different experiments.

Embedded firmware: an electronics engineer starts the hardware/firmware integration to establish connection and communication among the components.

Enclosure prototyping: The 3D models are revised according to the PCB specification and dimensions. A mechanical engineer builds the design on CAD software and sends the file to a 3D printer. If your enclosure is supposed to have metal parts, the prototyping process needs to involve a CNC machine.

Certifications: The design firm can help you apply for the certification process through recognized bodies such as FCC, CSA, and UL. Most certifications are voluntary.

Documentation: if packaging is not needed, the design firm can go directly to the documentation work to produce various documents such as instruction manuals, warnings, and maintenance recommendations.

A product design firm does not usually provide mass-production services. However, it will be willing to help you find a potential factory partner to manufacture the product in large volumes. Depending on the design, some additional work might be required before you can proceed to the manufacturing step. For example, a plastic enclosure requires an injection molding technique. The design firm will design the mold and have it fabricated.

End Note

Product development is not something to take lightly. The development cost will be your biggest obstacle, but it won’t be your only challenge. There is a long road from a design concept to a tangible product. For a small company, developing a new hardware product can be a considerable investment, especially when the product is an electronic device with embedded firmware or mobile app integration. Having an experienced design firm or a team of mechanical and electronics engineers on your side can make the difference between the efficient development of a feasible design and a significant money drain.

Expert Tips for Choosing Freelance Android App Development Services for Your Company

Posted on July 26, 2024 by faz_business

The search for the best freelance Android app designers is never an easy task. After all, every freelance Android app designer is unique and different from the rest. But one thing is for sure: whether you’re a multinational company, a small business, or a start-up, you need to look for the right freelance Android app developer who can transform your dream application into reality.

Why your company needs a freelance mobile app developer

Regardless of its shape, size, or type, businesses need a more responsive mobile app than ever. As the eCommerce platform continues to grow, it’s almost inevitable for businesses to develop mobile apps. Android app developers and designers are enjoying a high demand because of the Android OS’s notable popularity compared to its counterparts. As a result, companies that specialize in mobile app development strive hard to cater to the market and its ever-growing and ever-changing demands.

But once again, it can be challenging to choose a reliable and trustworthy app development service. Since the mobile development process involves several stages that require the participation and collaboration of an entire team of skilled 3D design experts, no one can blame you if you’re confused when it’s time to look for a decent mobile app developer. Continue reading this guide to learn some expert tips for choosing freelance Android app development services for your company that won’t leave you disappointed with the results.

1. Review past projects

Checking and going through the previous projects of an app development service can give you a good idea of the quality of their delivery and overall approach. The working portfolio of freelance developers speaks a lot about their work. Start by going through the app’s functionality, the time it took to finish the project, and the designing capabilities of the developer. These will help you understand and confirm whether the developer can meet your company’s app’s requirements. While you’re at it, do not forget to go through the feedback, ratings, and reviews for the app itself.

2. Get in touch with previous clients

Just checking the past projects of a freelance Android app designer is not always enough. You might also want to consider reaching out to previous clients. Doing so will tell you how the developer treated and dealt with past clients. It will also help you understand how the designer works once they receive the project, their level of responsiveness, the frequency of communication with the client, how they handle challenges, and the like.

3. Inquire about post-development support and tasks

Before hiring a freelance app designer, you should also take your time to ask about common post-development tasks, including app testing, app submission, support, maintenance, bug fixing, and other post-development concerns, before you decide to hand your project to the developer. While no app might be perfect, this is the least you can do to ensure that yours will be almost close to perfection.

4. Ensure top-notch app performance and quality

Users never like apps that take too long to respond. That’s why it is crucial to ensure that your chosen freelance Android app development service can come up with an app that is both intuitive and fast at the same time.

5. Look for reusable high-performance code

It’s a no-brainer that a freelance Android app developer should be proficient and well-versed in various languages, such as JavaScript and Kotlin. Additionally, it is essential that they know how to create a code that they can keep in an understandable and reusable environment. Through this, debugging and making the necessary changes will be simple and smooth. Moreover, future implementations of due updates and other similar changes will be more manageable.

6. Confirm understanding of material design basics

A prospective Android app developer must also understand and preferably have real-world experiences in working based on the Material Design principles and guidelines of Google that can help them craft user-friendly and appealing interfaces. This modern set of guidelines on material design helps ensure an effective form of the UI/UX design of the app with minimal effort.

7. Check for comprehension of SDLC and business processes

Modern development projects always require a good understanding of SDLC or software development lifecycle and business process. You can save more money and time in the long run if your chosen freelance Android software programmers/developers can pinpoint possible issues and challenges during the development process.

8. Avoid focusing on the price tag alone

In the hopes of winning the race, many businesses tend to work with the cheapest freelance Android app designers they can find, only to be disappointed with a low-quality app that they received. In turn, this would be completely useless for their business. Rather than opting for those low-budget developers, hiring a freelance Android app developer who can come up with a high-quality and feature-rich app at the most competitive price would be more efficient and advantageous.

9. Verify the use of an innovative approach

Make sure you also look into the approach of the freelance Android app developer that you’re planning to hire. To ensure that the provider is adept in their service, always check if they understand the specific needs of your business. See to it that the development service can also improvise designs and offer a top-of-the-line user experience combined with groundbreaking ideas.

10. Go for a certified and reputable developer

Hiring a freelance Android app developer may sound risky, but as long as you choose a certified and reputable one, there is simply no reason for you to worry. Use your wise judgment and carefully consider every potential candidate before you settle for one.

11. Guarantee ability to pinpoint and solve bugs

Once the code is up and ready, the app designer will be in charge of identifying bugs and errors and getting rid of them accordingly. Once the app gets deployed, the designer will also continue to be in charge of troubleshooting.

12. Ask about the designer

It would not do you any good if you settle for the first designer you meet. Take your time interviewing each candidate, and do not be afraid to ask more about them, such as their services and other related experiences. There’s nothing wrong with this, so go ahead and raise those questions running through your mind.

13. Check for experience and proficiency

Would you entrust your health to a doctor not licensed to treat patients? Definitely no! When it comes to app design and development, it’s never wise to put its fate into the hands of someone who is a complete beginner in the field. Always consider the proficiency and experience of the freelance Android app developer you’re eyeing to hire. Don’t forget that developing a business-centric and market-centric app is not an easy task. It is something that should be done with the utmost proficiency that only experienced designers can offer.

14. Go through privacy agreements and NDAs

Work with a freelance Android app developer only after you’ve signed the privacy agreements and NDAs. Signing these bonds with your chosen designer gives you peace of mind, knowing that your business’s confidential data will be safe and secure. You also need to guarantee that you have complete control and property rights of your app to prevent discrepancies in the future.

15. Consider sufficient knowledge of different open-source platforms

As an open-source platform, Android gives developers the flexibility to design apps that cater to the specific needs of the users. For this reason, the developer you choose must have a sound knowledge of these different open-source platforms. Be sure to look for a freelance Android app designer who is familiar and well-versed with the various open-source libraries.

16. Pick a designer who stays up-to-date with trends and tech

The world of technology develops fast, with new technologies and tools getting introduced into the market almost every day. These include supplement software solutions and new knowledge complete with new features. When hiring a freelance app designer, see to it that they keep up with the most state-of-the-art technologies to help you stay ahead of the competition with the most interactive and updated solutions.

17. Prioritize user needs

When developing an app, a freelance Android app developer should always focus on user needs and requirements. They should come up with a solution that will satisfy users, offer them comfort, and look more appealing to them.

18. Ability to work with different APIs

Application programming interface or API allows speedy communication between different computer programs. The programmers communicate with different services, using numerous APIs for this particular purpose. It allows quick operation of different programs opened at the same time. These APIs should always be among the key strengths of an excellent freelance Android app developer.

19. Capacity to handle various databases

Almost all apps right now hold massive volumes of data. It’s critical to synchronize all of them between the outer database and internal storage when the app is offline. With that, a good command of these different databases is a must for the freelance Android app designer you will hire.

How Cad Crowd can help

Are you looking to elevate your company’s mobile presence with a top-notch Android app? Look no further! Cad Crowd is your gateway to expert Android app development services. Take advantage of the opportunity to harness the power of cutting-edge technology for your business. Get in touch with Cad Crowd’s skilled professionals and secure the future of your company’s mobile app development. Begin your success story now. Contact us today, and let’s build your dream Android app together!

CAD Files in Action: Industries and Companies Adopting Popular CAD File Formats

Posted on July 21, 2024 by faz_business

Today’s post explores CAD files and the companies and firms that adopt popular CAD file formats. Before the rise of CAD, paper and pencil were the only combination designers had access to. 3D designs and prototypes were all carried out manually. The result was the slow development of designs and the tedious prototype creation process. Without a doubt, the entire manual process required expensive trials and errors.

But with the introduction of CAD technologies, the entire design, development, and prototyping process has become easier, faster, and cheaper. As a result, it’s simple to address design concerns and can be done so throughout the design process itself. Instead of the usual drawing, CAD files have become the ultimate weapon for 3D designers to bring their CAD designs to life.

What are CAD files?

Computer-aided design or CAD files are the outputs of CAD software that contain information about the designed objects. These files might be made up of 3D or 2D data and are commonly used by designers, manufacturers, digital artists, engineers, and scientists. The format is the defining characteristic of CAD files. There are kernel, native, and neutral CAD file formats. Neutral file formats were elaborated as readable according to industry standards by most CAD modeling platforms.

These formats have publicly available specifications and are maintained by consortiums or companies. Meanwhile, major CAD vendors produce native formats. Third-party CAD tools conversion is necessary to import these files. Finally, kernel formats are derived from renowned geometric modeling kernels. CAD modeling kernels are components of modeling software. That defines how a shape is mathematically described by it. Kernel formats are recommended for software built on top of the kernel that corresponds to it. Here are some of the industries and companies adopting popular CAD file formats:

Interior design

CAD files allow 3D interior design firms to breathe life into their visions through detailed and intricate digital designs. It allows them to present designs to their clients, from every detail to the smallest ones. They can also showcase the final look of the project upon completion.

Architecture

Buildings are massive and costly projects. Flawless planning is critical when developing something as expensive and huge as a building. It is another case where CAD files come in handy. In addition to the actual layout and architecture of a structure, the CAD files can also be used to identify the correct specifications, such as weights, volumes, and measurements, even before the start of the actual construction.

2D drawings and floor plan services can be used in the field once the construction starts. Meanwhile, the 3D architectural visualizations are used to gauge the accuracy of 2D plans and help backers envision the completed project to increase the chances of them funding it. It is especially true for office buildings as well as other commercial structures. However, home designers and builders also increasingly use CAD files and 3D visualizations these days.

Landscaping

Landscaping companies also use CAD files to conceptualize their outdoor creations and identify the correct placement and location of different landscaping elements such as gardens, patios, fences, trees, and more. Companies can employ 3D landscape rendering designers to visualize their designs.

Automotive

Sophisticated CAD software and files are also used in different aspects and areas of automotive design. CAD companies for the automotive industry are used to produce 3D prototypes of new styles of car bodies and to design car parts such as engines, tires, upholstery, circuitry boards, and others. Data from CAD files can be fed into CNC machines that cut steel and robots that help construct vehicles on assembly lines.

Medical

CAD files are also used by prosthetic design and CAD services for medical applications for prosthetics construction or reconstruction of different body parts. Some of these are even printed out using specialized medical 3D printers. Traditionally, CAD has been used to help engineer designs and models for analysis, representation, and manufacturing. The advancements in biomedicine and information technology have paved the way for new CAD uses and applications with many essential and novel biomedical applications.

The CAD files are used for tissue engineering, where the CAD-based bio-tissue informatics model offers crucial data on tissue biophysical, biochemical, and biological properties for the design, fabrication, and modeling of complex substitutes for tissues.

Civil Engineering

Today’s urban planners also use CAD files to plan infrastructures in urban areas, including bridges, office complexes, industrial units, parks, and more. It is another aspect where 3D CAD is used most of the time. The urban planning process requires taxpayer dollars and funding. Many people find it hard to envision the appearance of a playground or park based on a 2D drawing alone. It’s even more difficult for them to visualize what a massive professional stadium will look like upon completion. This is where civil engineering professionals can help. If the planners hope for financial support and backing for a taxpayer referendum, CAD files are the best approach.

Fashion Design

Even though most of today’s reputable fashion designers choose to craft their designs for their unique creations by hand at first, fashion CAD files are often used in the latter phases of the design process. CAD files are also almost always used by industries specializing in ready-to-wear garments. The files are used to identify the most efficient fabric cuts and to change the pattern scale for various sizes.

With the help of virtual models, the files can also be used to present how the item fits and moves when worn. 3D cad fashion design professionals can make the necessary changes to the design afterward. During the manufacturing stage, the cloths can then be cut, typically in large layers, with the help of CNC machines to speed up the whole process.

Dentistry

Did you get a tooth crown in the past decade? If yes, then chances are your dentist took advantage of technological advancements in CAD technologies. For 30 years, CAD files have been used in dentistry to digitize dental structures and oral cavities for virtual designs of complex and simple prosthetic units. However, the only difference is that this time, thanks to the rise of dental 3D printers and special dental materials, the structure is made right in the dentist’s office while you wait instead of being sent out to a laboratory first for construction. Dental CAD printing and design technologies can offer unmatched anatomical accuracy even while you wait.

Forensics

Just like how your well-loved CSI show uses CAD technologies to solve their cases, their counterparts in the real world do so as well. The role of 3D CAD design and 2D drafting services in forensic sciences is to help estimate a person’s age, analyze the injuries incurred, and identify the victim postmortem. Most of the time, postmortem identification involves comparing dental records in the form of models and radiographs of a person before death or ante mortem to that of postmortem or after death.

On the other hand, injury analysis may involve comparing bone contusions or fragments to the types of known injuries or weapons. Forensic sciences can also use CAD files to help in 3D reconstruction of the investigation of crime scenes.

Law

3D CAD reconstructions of crime scenes and accidents that resemble those used in forensics can be used even in courtrooms to assist the jurors in visualizing the events put on trial.

Mapping

As a form of CAD, computer-aided mapping is especially related to cartography and mapping. This is typically used by GIS mapping experts to generate utility, parcel, and street maps that can be used with GIS or on their own. Even though GIS and CAD are similar to each other, the two have some notable distinctions. Most importantly, CAD is designed to edit and create graphic entities. In general, CAD also has minimal database capacities, but this might not ring true in the case of 3D CAD.

On the other hand, GIS is the spatial database where graphics are used to display the analytical results, wherein graphic editing is the secondary ability. It is essential to note that several CAD programs come with GIS functionality as an add-on to their core functions in graphic editing.

Aerospace

The aerospace field is undoubtedly one of the most high-tech modern industries that use CAD files. The aerospace industry includes aircraft, missiles, satellites, and space vehicle manufacturers. Since these products come with colossal price tags, with a single aerospace item easily costing several million dollars, aerospace engineering services and CAD files play a crucial role in the design process.

Before the construction of the actual product, every single detail is planned and virtualized as thoroughly as possible with the help of sophisticated CAD design software. Advancements in computing technologies have undoubtedly paved the way for the continuous rise of CAD files in applications beyond the scope of conventional AEC design.

How Cad Crowd can help

Get in touch with Cad Crowd today and tap into the massive pool of CAD design professionals specializing in CAD files that can be used in various industries and by different companies. Contact us for a free quote.