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→ Identification of First Technical Issue – Blade Design and Manufacturing
Blade thickness, hole diameter, and hole-to-hole distance are critical for the proper function of this product. Also, the blade must be rigid enough to withstand the force applied during use. Normal stamping operations were not capable of producing this blade. Material selection, manufacturing process, mechanical analyses, and prototyping were critical in overcoming these technical issues.
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→ Identification of Second Technical Issue – Blade Mounting
A robust connection between the blade and the handle needed to be achieved while maintaining the industrial design. Several options were explored, as well as the overall handle construction. Working directly with the manufacturer, several ideas were brainstormed until a consensus was reached.
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→ Final Engineering
Once the main technical issues were solved, the engineering was completed. |
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→ Visual Model
A non-working visual model was made to show what the final product would look like, to satisfy the customer’s expectations on the aesthetics, and to use as a sales-tool. |
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→ Tooling and Manufacturing Interface
Continued interface with the factory helped drive the product to completion. Tooling strategy was discussed and implemented. Tooling drawings were reviewed. Participation in sampling took place, with feedback given to help ensure the highest level of quality. |
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→ Production
By identifying the main technical challenges, following a controlled process, and using a capable manufacturer, the product was able to be produced to the functional and aesthetic requirements of the customer while still reaching the cost target. |
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