Month: January 2023

A-Z Of A Product Development Process

This was quoted by Peter F. Drucker. It stands true as many new products have failed in the recent market due to a lack of innovation. Going by the numbers, almost 30,000 new products are launched each year, and 95% of them fail. Even bigger companies like Sony’s Betamax, Google Glass, and Microsoft Zune fail.

This failure is associated with a lack of innovation, which is indeed hindered by the fear of failure itself. So, is there a path to follow while innovating a new product? What are the important factors to consider while launching a product? What is the entire product development process?

Let’s get a detailed answer to the above questions in this blog.

What is the product development process?

The product development process outlines the steps a product owner should take prior to releasing a new product to the market or upgrading an existing product’s features. It includes identifying the product-market fit, planning the optimal approach for developing and releasing the product, and developing a pricing and go-to-market strategy.

Choosing the proper process flow is essential for ensuring a complete product development cycle. The two most popular models to facilitate a smooth process are:

1. IDEO approach

It is a 5-step process that is research-intensive for new product development. These steps are:

• Recognize and observe the market, the client, the technology, and the problem’s constraints;
• Synthesize the data gathered in the first step;
• Imagine new customers utilizing the product; 
• Product prototyping, evaluation, and optimization;
• Implementation of design modifications, which are associated with more complex technological processes, will therefore require more time.

2. Lean start-up model

Lean startup is a method for developing businesses and products that aims to shorten product development cycles and rapidly determine if a proposed business model is viable. This is accomplished through the adoption of a combination of business-hypothesis-driven experimentation, iterative product releases, and validated learning. 

The lean startup methodology prioritizes customer feedback over intuition and adaptability over planning. This methodology permits recovery from failures more frequently than conventional product development methods.

Why do businesses need a product development process?

A product development process aids in testing the marketability and utility of a newly created product. Here are some benefits of having a clearly defined product development process:

• Provide valuable features
• Better quality
• Greater development management
• Validate your concept
• Reduce expenses drastically

What is the product development process?

The framework for the new product development process includes bringing an original product concept to market. Although the process varies by industry, it can generally be divided into six stages: ideation, research, planning, product prototyping, sourcing, and pricing.

1. Ideation

The initial phase of product development begins with the generation of new product concepts. This is the stage of product innovation, where you generate product ideas based on customer requirements, concept testing, and market research.

During ideation, it is important to consider the following factors:

1. Target market to gauge for whom the product is built.
2. Existing products in the market
3. Functionality and uniqueness of your product
4. SWOT analysis to build the best version
5. SCAMPER (Substituting, Combining, Adapting, Modifying, Putting to another use, Eliminating, and Rearranging product concept) method to refine your idea.
6. Research

Once the business case has been completed and the target market and product functionality have been discussed, it is time to define the product. It focuses on refining the product strategy and is also known as “scoping” or “concept development.”

During the research, it is important to consider the following specifics:

1. Business analysis by mapping out distribution strategy, eCommerce strategy, and in-depth competitor analysis.
2. The value proposition in terms of what problem will your product be solving.
3. Success metrics by gauging KPIs and noting goals.
4. Marketing strategies to note the channels that will boost your virtual presence.
5. Product prototyping

During the prototyping phase, your team will conduct extensive research and document the product by developing a more comprehensive business plan and building the prototype. These early prototypes may be as simple as a sketch or as complex as a computer-rendered image of the initial design. Before creating a product, you can identify potential risk areas with the aid of these prototypes.

During product prototyping, it is important to note the following specifics:

1. Feasibility analysis to evaluate your product.
2. Market risk management to analyze any potential risks associated with the production.
3. Development strategy by noting timelines with critical path method. 
4. MVP to launch the product quickly than building all the desired features.
5. Initial design

During the initial design phase, stakeholders collaborate to develop a product mockup based on the MVP prototype. The design should be created with the intended audience in mind and should complement the product’s primary functions.

A successful product design may require multiple iterations and communication with distributors in order to source the necessary materials.

During the initial design process, it is important to consider the following specifics:

1. Source materials to design the initial mockup. 
2. Connect with stakeholders to keep tight communication during the design phase to verify an initial design.
3. Receive the initial feedback to gauge further optimizations.
4. Pricing

To launch a new product, it must first be validated and tested. This ensures that all aspects of the product, from development to marketing, are functioning properly prior to its release to the public.

To ensure the quality of your product, carry out the steps below:

1. Concept development and testing to work on optimizations.
2. Front-end testing to test the front-end functionality for risks with development code.
3. Test marketing to test the marketing plan for functionality errors.
4. Commercialization

Now is the time to commercialize your idea by launching your product and implementing it on your website.

You have completed the design and quality testing of your development and marketing strategies. You should be confident in your final draft and prepared to produce the final product.

In this phase, you should focus on the steps below:

1. Product development to create a final physical product with enhanced features and complete optimizations
2. eCommerce development to launch your product and perform additional testing to ensure the product launched functions properly.

Wrapping Up

The proper product development process can help you streamline each step through the use of organized tasks and teamwork. The six stages outlined above will guide your team through all phases of the process, from the initial screening of ideas to the phase of development.

But you may require assistance along the way. Technosoft Engineering is a product development company to back you up. Our product designing and development services include, but are not limited to,

• Product research
• Product styling and ergonomics
• Value engineering, CAD/CAE/FEA analysis
• DFA and DMF
• Product prototyping
• Engineering Change Management
• And much more.

So, book your call today, and get your product launched with minimal risks and a maximum success rate.

Basics Of Automotive Electrical System – Technosoft

A vehicle is ignited and started by an electrical system. The automotive electrical system is analogous to our body’s circulatory system, where the battery is the heart from which the electricity (blood) flows. Like blood, electrical current flows from the battery to the powered part and back through the car’s metal body.

The battery serves as the electrical system‘s backbone. It gives the car the electricity it needs to start and powers other parts, like the fuel and ignition systems, which are needed for the engine to work.

Hence, this blog is to elaborate on the automotive electrical system, its components, and its functioning.

Main components of an automotive electrical system

There are three main components of an electrical system.

1. Battery

Your vehicle’s entire electrical current is supplied by its battery until it is started. This includes the current to the ignition and fuel systems, which are responsible for producing the combustion necessary for your engine to operate.

2. Starter

While the battery provides the power to start a vehicle, it is the starter that actually starts the engine. The battery supplies the starter motor with a small amount of power. The starter then rotates the flywheel, which rotates the crankshaft and initiates piston movement. Due to the complexity of this procedure, it is essential that the starter work.

3. Alternator

The alternator keeps the battery charged and the electrical system operational while the engine is running. With a faulty alternator, your vehicle may start, but it will not be able to run for an extended period of time. If the alternator needs replacement, the electrical system of your vehicle will operate erratically, the battery will deplete, and the engine will eventually lose power.

How does the current flow within a vehicle?

Current flows out of the battery via its positive terminal and back in via its negative terminal, also known as its “earth terminal,” because it is connected to the car’s chassis and therefore cannot electrocute you. This configuration is known as an earth-return system.

Electricity flows along wires of various hues (and resistance) that are bundled and run the length of the vehicle. This is known as a writing loom.

It is extremely complex and has wires running off it at intervals to connect to power-requiring components.

Types of Batteries

Starting batteries: These batteries start your car. They deliver a short, powerful burst of energy to start the engine. They stay charged during regular use because the alternator recharges them when it starts charging the electrical system.

Deep-cycle batteries: These batteries provide less energy over time. While they can start a car, they are designed to run fridges, winches, and other electrical components that draw a smaller but regular current. Within these categories, lead-acid batteries differ in their materials.

Wet Cell  This is the most common type of car battery and may be maintenance-free or require periodic watering.

Absorbed Glass Mat: Like wet cell batteries, but with a glass mat between each lead plate. This electrolyte-soaked mat reduces battery slosh. It lasts longer than a wet-cell battery.

Gel Cell: As the name suggests, this battery uses a gel electrolyte. They’re smaller than wet-cell batteries.

The working principle in automotive electrical systems

Car electrical systems are easy to understand. All electrical devices in a car are powered by the battery through switches or relays. The engine immediately starts the battery-powered starter motor. The alternator charges the battery while the engine burns fuel. 

When the engine is off, this alternator’s voltage is lower than the battery’s. The battery, not the alternator, powers the vehicle’s loads. Diodes prevent current from entering alternators.

The alternator’s current output exceeds the battery voltage when the engine is running. The alternator charges the vehicle’s battery and electrical load. When the engine is running, an alternator’s output voltage is above the battery voltage.

Wrapping Up

The electrical system is a complex but essential component of your vehicle’s ability to start, run, charge, and perform small but essential tasks such as locking the doors. Moreover, despite the fact that the voltage in automotive systems is significantly lower than in, say, household applications, it is essential to seek the assistance of a professional when making a diagnosis or beginning repairs, as many components are extremely sensitive and can be easily damaged without the proper training and knowledge.

Want solutions for your automotive electric system? Want to power your vehicle design with cutting-edge engineering? Technosoft Engineering is here to provide multi-disciplinary services including styling and body design, electrical part design, engineering documentation, FEA, CFD, VA/VE, functional testing, and much more.

We’re ready to get started, are you?

What is Tooling Design? – Technosoft Engineering

Tooling design is an essential part of the design process. It is a prototypical model of a tool that manufacturers use to create parts and tools. Tooling design plays a crucial role as it affects the quality of production in the end-user industry.

Global statistics suggest that the tooling and design (specifically cutting tools) market size is expected to get a worth of 239.90 million in 2023. Additionally, the global generative design market is set to touch USD 274 million by the end of 2023.

These statistics suggest that there is a huge scope for designs this year, which in turn, feeds the need to know the crux of the tooling design process. Hence, this blog will guide you on the same.

What is Tooling Design?

Tooling design is an essential part of the manufacturing process. It refers to the plans and components used to build a product or part, from start to finish. This type of design covers everything from selecting raw materials and molding them into specific shapes, to machining parts for accuracy and assembly processes.

As tool designing enables manufacturers to produce products that are both efficient and cost-effective, tooling design is often regarded as the linchpin of any manufacturing operation.

Additionally, in tooling design, engineers create tools using a variety of processes such as CAD/CAM technology, CNC machining, mold making, die casting, welding fabrication, heat treating, and more. They also consider factors such as material selection and tolerance requirements in order to produce parts that meet customer specifications.

Why is Tool Design Important in Manufacturing?

• Tool design is important in manufacturing as it helps manufacturers design and create parts faster, more efficiently, and accurately.
• Tool design ensures that the right tool is used for the job, reducing waste and increasing productivity.
• In addition, tooling design helps to optimize product design, ensuring minimal downtime. This way, manufacturers can reduce the cost of manufacturing by not having to use expensive custom parts.
• Tooling design also helps to reduce manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for costly tool materials.
• Tool design also helps to improve productivity and efficiency during the manufacturing process. Thus, it is vital for a company’s growth and success.

Importance of Tooling Design.

Tooling design is an important part of the manufacturing process and can have a significant effect on product quality, cost, and time to market. Let’s have a look at the importance of tooling design:

• Tooling design must consider the material type and geometry of the part being manufactured. Different material types have different wear characteristics, and as such, tooling design must reflect this variation.
• Tooling design must consider tolerances and other specifications of the part being manufactured. Doing so helps in ensuring that the part being produced is within prescribed limits.
• Tooling design must consider potential wear, fatigue, and environmental conditions during production. Doing so ensures that parts are produced smoothly without any issues.

The Process of Tooling Design

The process of tooling design involves a multitude of steps from formulating a tooling design document to verifying tests and it include three major steps:-

Step 1: Understand the application and requirements of the tooling design. This involves analyzing the product geometries, conducting the proper functional and physical analysis, and determining the best manufacturing process for making the tooling part.

Step 2: After choosing the right tooling materials for the tooling design, you must design a tool that meets safety and performance standards.

Step 3: The last step is to create a prototype and test it before mass production begins.

Benefits of Using the Right Tooling Design

With an altogether intricate process, tooling design poses several benefits. Some of them are noted below.                                                     

• Using the right tooling design can save time, money, and resources. It helps to reduce production costs and errors while also ensuring the accuracy of components.
• As a result, high-quality tooling design ensures that products are of optimal quality and durability. This is beneficial as it increases customer satisfaction and overall brand recognition.
• A properly designed tooling system reduces installation time and costs for manufacturing processes. It also makes for easier repairs and adjustments during the manufacturing process.
• Moreover, it has better reliability and efficiency compared to hand-crafted designs. High-quality tooling design improves product life by minimizing potential wear and tear on parts.

Fundamentals of Tooling Design

There are essentially 4 fundamentals of tooling design of which are discussed below: 

#1 Tolerance and Precision

Tolerance and precision are key aspects to consider when designing a tool. The tighter the tolerance, the more precise the finished product will be. In addition, it is important to consider the type of material used in the tool as certain materials are better suited for certain tasks.

For example, a tool that requires a high degree of accuracy may require a tool made from a special type of metal or non-bendable material. Also, it is essential to understand how the material will interact with other components of the tool to ensure that it performs optimally.

#2 Production Volume and Durability

Designing tools involves a number of considerations, including production volume and durability. When designing a tool, it is crucial to take into account the production volume of the tool’s design. High-volume production necessitates tools that are robust and resilient enough to withstand increased wear and tear. Durability is also essential, as tools must withstand hundreds or thousands of cycles without failing.

More intricate designs are more likely to fail under pressure, so the complexity of the tooling design will affect its durability. As different materials have different strengths and weaknesses, the type of material used for the tooling is crucial for both production volume and durability.

#3 Cycle Times

Cycle times refer to the total amount of time required for a machine to complete one cycle of operation, including setup and teardown. Designers must consider cycle times when designing tools in order to optimize production.

Other factors, such as tool strength, durability, and ergonomics, must be taken into consideration. The design of tools can help reduce setup times, increase accuracy and repeatability, and improve quality control.

Properly designed tooling can reduce setup times, save money, and greatly improve production efficiency. It can also help manufacturers create high-quality products faster and with fewer resources.

#4 Tool Changing Time

Tool changing time is a major factor in tooling design. It is important to consider the speed of tool changing when designing a tooling system, as this can greatly affect the final product’s quality.

Additionally, the accuracy of the tool change should be considered, as it can affect the final product’s quality. Other considerations include how easily tools can be changed and serviced, and how much space is available for storing tools.

In designing a tooling system, consideration must be given to the size and shape of the tools being used as well as the materials they are made from. All of these factors must be taken into account to design a tooling system that allows for efficient and accurate tool changing while maintaining high-quality output.

Conclusion

Now you have finally understood the basics of tooling design and also that the design and development of manufacturing tools is a complex process that involves tooling engineers, designers, and manufacturers. While the design of tools may seem simple, it is vital to the performance of manufactured parts, which can be life-threatening if not done right. 

If you are looking for tool design services, we’ve got you covered. Avail the best tooling services from Technosoft, a recognized firm having decades of experience and expertise. We hold our experience in manufacturing rotation equipments, Valves, Volutes, Dryers, Washers, Boilers, Heat exchanges, and much more, to provide you with a better quality production at your end.

We’re ready to get started, are you?