Are you ready to develop a new product or improve an existing part? When it comes to plastics, General Pattern suggests a 3-Phase approach for the best success and is equipped to help you every step of the way.Phase 1 – Prototype – 
Fit-Check and/or Functional Parts – Once you have your 3D CAD ready you will want to check the fit and function of the part(s). Fit-Check can be accomplished using a variety of 3D printers in our prototype lab. For Functional Prototypes, GP favors parts that are CNC machined from spec material. The latter offers the best tolerances, part performance that is closest to your production intent and the parts can be expertly painted in-house. Photo-shoots, trade shows or presentations to investors – no problem! It may take one or more rounds of prototypes to perfect your design.
Phase 2 – Bridge –
Field Test Units or Bridge Tooling – When you are reasonably certain of your design you may need a few, a couple dozen, a hundred or even more parts or sets of parts for testing or early product launch. During this Phase, you may want to minimize your tooling investment and leave your options open to change the design once your parts are in the field. Among the solutions are CNC machining for just a few copies, urethane cast in silicone tools for multiple copies or injection molding using aluminum tooling designed to meet low-volume needs.
Phase 3 – Production –
Phase 3 – Production –
Production Parts – If you chose an aluminum bridge tool it may support brisk volumes of a few thousand sets per year for multiple years. If your part demand increases substantially, it may be time to step-up your tooling to achieve better cycle times. This can be achieved by increasing the number of cavities and/or adding automation to your tool. A steel tool will support a 6-figure tool life and offer better part prices.
Get in touch and we can get you going, thanks for reading this full version of the article. You are always welcome to come play in the prototype lab with us.