Behind every metal product hides a design process that starts from a sketch and ends up in a realistic prototype and then repeatable production. In metal industry, R&D is where it’s determined whether the product will work, cost properly, and be easy to manufacture.
Stages of Metal Construction R&D
1. Concept & Sketch
The initial idea is captured with sketches, benchmarking of competitor products, and functional specifications (what it must do) and non-functional (cost, weight, dimensions).
2. CAD Design (SolidWorks)
The sketch translates to a 3D model. Material thicknesses, joints, assembly are defined. SolidWorks allows checking fit between parts, detecting interferences, and creating drawings for cutting.
3. FEA Analysis (Finite Element Analysis)
Before the first material is cut, the model is tested virtually: load resistance, thermal stresses, vibrations, buckling. This identifies weaknesses that would be catastrophic in reality.
4. Prototyping
Manufacturing 1–3 samples for testing. Uses the same processes that will be used in mass production (laser cutting, bending, CNC, welding), so the prototype faithfully represents the final product.
5. Testing & Iterations
The prototype is tested in real usage environment. Problems are recorded and we return to CAD for corrections. Typically 2–4 iterations are needed.
6. Design for Manufacturing (DfM)
The final design is optimized for easy and economical production: reducing number of parts, standardizing joints, choosing available commercial materials.
7. Industrialization
Creation of production documentation: BOM, drawings per part, assembly sequences, quality checks. The product is ready for mass production.
What You Need to Get Started
- Idea or sketch (even on paper)
- Functional requirements (what the product must do)
- Constraints: maximum dimensions, weight, environmental factors
- Cost target & production volume
AXINAR provides complete R&D from sketch to industrialization, for customers who want to develop a new metal product without in-house R&D.
- R&D team with 15+ years experience
- FEA analysis in static, thermal, vibrations
- Prototyping in real production processes
Request a Quote for Your Project
Send us sketches, CAD drawings, or a description of your project, and we’ll respond within 24 hours with a technical estimate and indicative cost. We cover everything from prototypes to mass OEM production.
See all AXINAR services, from R&D to final finishing.
