{"id":7937,"date":"2026-07-24T11:44:42","date_gmt":"2026-07-24T08:44:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/axinar.com\/?p=7937"},"modified":"2026-07-24T11:44:42","modified_gmt":"2026-07-24T08:44:42","slug":"rd-metal-structures-solidworks-fea","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/axinar.com\/en\/blog\/rd-metal-structures-solidworks-fea","title":{"rendered":"R&D Metal Structures Design: SolidWorks, FEA, Prototyping"},"content":{"rendered":"

Behind every metal product hides a design process that starts from a sketch and ends up in a realistic prototype and then repeatable production<\/strong>. In metal industry, R&D is where it’s determined whether the product will work, cost properly, and be easy to manufacture.<\/p>\n

Stages of Metal Construction R&D<\/h2>\n

1. Concept & Sketch<\/h3>\n

The initial idea is captured with sketches, benchmarking of competitor products, and functional specifications (what it must do) and non-functional (cost, weight, dimensions).<\/p>\n

2. CAD Design (SolidWorks)<\/h3>\n

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.<\/p>\n

3. FEA Analysis (Finite Element Analysis)<\/h3>\n

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.<\/p>\n

4. Prototyping<\/h3>\n

Manufacturing 1\u20133 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.<\/p>\n

5. Testing & Iterations<\/h3>\n

The prototype is tested in real usage environment. Problems are recorded and we return to CAD for corrections. Typically 2\u20134 iterations are needed.<\/p>\n

6. Design for Manufacturing (DfM)<\/h3>\n

The final design is optimized for easy and economical production<\/strong>: reducing number of parts, standardizing joints, choosing available commercial materials.<\/p>\n

7. Industrialization<\/h3>\n

Creation of production documentation: BOM, drawings per part, assembly sequences, quality checks. The product is ready for mass production.<\/p>\n

What You Need to Get Started<\/h2>\n