Better Design, Better Engineering, Better Products

PHASE 0 - Investigation & Requirements Definition

This phase is crucial for projects where requirements are not fully defined, feasibility is not known, or research is required. It is important to use this time to fully understand the product's goals, vision, target users, and key risks. Depending on the project/client's needs we offer the following de-risking options that lay a solid foundation for the rest of the product development process.

• Research report

• Preliminary risk analysis

• User experience identification/analysis

• Workflow analysis

• High-level architecture concepts

• Market Research

• Requirements development assistance

Once we clearly define the requirements, we can create a project-specific plan. Each phase has clear deliverables focused on achieving major goals.

PHASE 1 - Concept Development

Phase 1 is typically where requirements are finalized, risks are documented, concepts are developed, and feasibility is proven. We work closely with the clients to give them the confidence to explore and down-select concepts, ultimately leading to the ideal project path. Early feasibility or risk reduction 3D prints/prototypes are used to develop and prove technical feasibility, often going through multiple iterations to achieve mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering solutions. 

As system architecture is defined, user interface and industrial design concepts are developed that explore human factors, ergonomics, and usability. We engage with suppliers and potential CM’s early to have critical DFM and Cost trade off discussions.

PHASE 2 - Design and Prototype

This is where the details are worked out and the design is brought to life by creating prototypes. Requirements established in Phase 1 are now released under design control. Contract manufacturers are also contacted to provide specific design input to ensure a seamless transition later during the production stage. Throughout this phase, risk management activities continue, and design activities from all disciplines are completed and documented.

As parts come together, these activities are done to check for any necessary changes before moving on to the next step.

• Industrial design and human factors review

• Fully functional prototypes are created and tested

• Engineering verification testing and iterations to meet specs and requirements 

A design review closes out this phase to ensure the design satisfies all the specified requirements. This reduces the risks/issues found in design verification so the device is ready to progress to Phase 3.

PHASE 3 - Production Development

As the product begins to take shape and the final design is refined, it is important to begin implementing a process plan for each part that will optimize it for production in later stages. Material selection, tolerance, and tooling considerations all need to be carefully considered as they greatly impact the aesthetics, performance, and cost of the final product. At the end of this stage, refined CAD and other documentation are created that clearly define the design of each part.  

Protocols are written, tests are executed, and reports are issued. The design review at the end of this phase confirms design verification requirements have been met and documented to ISO 13485 standards.

PHASE 4 - Manufacturing Support

In this final phase, all relevant documentation is transferred from Acorn to the CM, but our support doesn’t stop when the design is in the manufacturer’s hands. Engineers and designers can provide manufacturing optimization by aiding with design updates, tooling support, and vendor management. 

Great products and companies deserve to be noticed. Our design team can help prepare for your product launch through brand strategy, packaging, and marketing collateral.