Rapid Prototyping

Rapid Prototype Process
The Rapid Prototyping of a product is only performed when a customer cannot wait the standard 4-6 weeks to manufacture a first article unit.  The Rapid Prototyping of a product cannot be confused with the actual mechanical design of the product.  The prototype phase begins after the design package has been completed and approved by the end user.  Oftentimes, this method of manufacturing is used when the time to market is crucial for initial product recognition or the ultimate funding of a project hinges on the delivery of a physical sample product.  Rapid Prototyping can range from as little as one week for single parts to two weeks for a complete assembly.  The cost for Rapid Prototype production is exponentially higher than the cost of standard lead-time prototype production.  This is due simply to the fact that our metal fabrication shop will place a hold on the current production line in order to complete this expedited project.  The design will be elevated to the top of the programming queue for completion.  In a parallel operation, our procurement team will purchase all materials and sub assemblies immediately and air expedite then into our facility.  A fabrication team will be assigned specifically to the prototype product and overtime responsibility is mandatory in order to achieve the desired timeline.  Once the prototype is completed the product will be fit tested (if necessary) by our systems group, inspected by our QA Department then priority air shipped to the anxiously awaiting customer.  At any given point in the Rapid Prototype production process, Core Systems will not sacrifice quality for the sake of expediency.