Frequently Asked Questions
Many general questions that we frequently receive have been posted below. If you have any questions or comments please do not hesitate to contact us.
- What do you need to get started on the quote process?
- How much does a prototype cost?
- How long will it take to make my prototype?
- Why do I need CAD design?
- How can you effectively work with clients across the country?
- How do you protect confidential information?
What do you need to get started on the quote process?
In order for us to quote a project, we need to have as much information about the project goals as possible. Typically we tell potential customers the best way to do this is to write down a detailed product description and include any hand sketches, similar product examples, pictures, etc. to convey the idea. This has a two-fold effect:
- It allows the customer to clarify (in their own mind) the project and write out specific criteria into a clear and concise document, and
- It gives us a great place to start to understand the requirements and either formulate a quote or ask more detailed questions.
How much does a prototype cost?
Our cost structure is based on how much work and materials are needed to complete a project. We have a free quote process and are happy to evaluate any project and provide a quote based on all the criteria.
How long will it take to make my prototype?
This depends on the type and complexity of the prototype along with our current workload. Typically for any of the rapid prototyping processes we ship out within 5 business days. If design is involved in the project it can be anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months. We typically give an estimated timeframe as part of our quote process.
Why do I need CAD design?
CAD design is an integral part of how we build prototypes. Just as you wouldn’t expect to build a house without a blueprint, we also need a design to follow before executing any manufacturing. CAD design allows us to virtually build the prototype and work out many of the design issues before we make anything physical. CAD also serves as a way to document the design and makes it easy to continue on to the next stage of the development cycle or move to manufacturing.
How can you effectively work with clients across the country?
With our current 3D CAD technology, we can easily convey ideas and designs with anybody in any location. Teleconferencing, e-mail, and special viewing programs allow our non-local clients to easily stay in the design loop and contribute to the prototyping process.
How do you protect confidential information?
We take our customers intellectual property very seriously and safeguard it from any wrongful exposure. We are happy to sign any non-disclosure or non-compete agreements that our clients provide or we have our own document that we can sign and send upon request.