We start with understanding the problem fully, researching competitors, market viability, anything that might have been missed with the initial thoughts and assumptions we have about the product.

We look at all possible solutions to this problem with the aid of sketching, so we have expanded our minds to the possible solutions that won’t bite us down the line. This research is then honed down into the product concept we are looking to develop. More sketching, determining aesthetics and choosing what makes sense for your brand.

The product goal is very clearly defined after all the research, so this process is really about generating all the final product design possibilities. Sketching is heavily used here and rough blocking can be useful in CAD to understand scale. Prototyping roughly with foam and cardboard is also huge to see if you’re on the right direction.

At the end of this you should have a clear direction and be ready to start designing your product in CAD.

After we have determined the exact direction of the build, CAD modeling is done in Fusion 360 or Solidworks to create the initial model.

Once the model is finished and edits have been made, prototypes of that design can be made either externally with local vendors (Portland, OR), services like Send Cut Send/Protolabs, or within my own capabilities of fabrication and 3D printing.

We further hone the design through revisions and adjustments iteratively until we are at a point where we are ready to have a manufacturer produce samples. Initial conversations and relationships with manufacturers start earlier to determine specific limitations, design parameters and cost considerations.

Usually the first sample from the manufacturer is not ready, further revisions are made before actual production. After the first production run, I can also offer advice on storage, fulfilment, shipping, marketing, sales channels, Kickstarter campaigns and any other business experience that may be relevant to you.