Prototyping and sampling are the most risky and intensive phase of our creative process. They require a significant investment of time, money and resources with little to no guarantee that the outcome will yield a positive result.
So, when embarking on this phase we use a range of tools and techniques to mitigate the risks in determining whether a concept we develop is a either feasible reality or just a pipe dream!
MAny years ago we learned an invaluable lesson from a CNC expert who, after endless discussions of "what if..." scenarios, advised Chris, “At some point, you have to stop the talkin’ and cut some metal.”.
This statement resonated deeply and has stayed with us ever since.
In this journal post, we share an insight into our AJOTO prototyping process and the steps we work through to transform an idea into a tangible product.
Step 1: Setting Limits. Creating goals and boundaries
This is arguably the most important of all steps. It’s fun to imagine that there is endless time and resources at our fingertips and that implementing constraints will inhibit our creativity. In reality, this is rarely the case. Without constraints to work with time drags on, concepts can never be "perfected" and interest in a project wanes. This is why it’s so important to set clear and definable limits and boundaries. This enables us to keep focus and stay on track.
Step 2: Rough prototypes - $
To quickly translate a 2D idea into a 3D form, we use a range of rapid rough prototyping processes. It’s all about being quick and dirty and using the cheapest materials we can find.
From off-cuts and scraps to modelling clay and cardboard. The aim of this process is to feel out the shape and form a product, away from the rabbit hole of digital technology. This child-like play approach ensures that we maintain focus on scale and shape and use our senses to assess form and function to quickly to narrow in on ideas and direction that show merit.
Step 3: Prototyping with 3D Printing - $$
3D printing has never been more economical and accessible. It is also a fantastic tool to rapidly test and assess concepts.
This process enables us to rapidly iterate near-perfect examples of a finished product or feture. Once a concept has been settled on, we use these physical prototypes alongside our drawings to help communicate design details with our manufacturing partners, minimising time delays, misunderstandings, and expenses.
Step 4: Transitioning to Real Materials - $$$$
There is a point in all projects where the design needs to end and for the production to begin. This final stage is focused on understanding and collaboration.
This stage is both thrilling and daunting as all of the risks are amplified. The aim however is to define the production processes and create a pre-production prototype that is as close to the finished product as possible.
However, as a small independent business, we don’t have the R&D budget of a Silicon Valley tech company. Each attempt and test costs money, and every mistake can cost hundreds if not thousands of pounds along with weeks and months of delays. This is why we leave this stage till the last and, if we have done our work correctly in the previous stages this will ensure that no nasty surprises are waiting for us.
One of the most important factors and often overlooked outcomes of this step is the necessity to establish a strong relationship with our production partners. We need to ensure that they are as invested in the success of the finished product, align on quality expectations and build trust and confidence as we move into the final phase.
At the end of the day, you are only as good as the supply chain!
Next Steps: Production
So, where are we now? Is the Pocket Pen ready? We're excited to announce that Yes! we're cutting metal! The samples of each piece are starting to come together.
There are a few tweaks here and there that we need to refine, but we hope to have a complete Pocket Pen to show you in the next couple of weeks.
In addition to finalising the pen itself, we are also working on the accessories. Once everything is ready, we will launch our Kickstarter campaign.
Stay tuned for more updates as we bring the Pocket Pen to life!
NOTIFY ME ABOUT AJOTO POCKET PEN LAUNCH
