5 Important Steps for the Development of New Products with Electronics

Development of products with electronics is as equally challenging as the development of generic, non-electronic products. New product development, whether electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, medical, or generic, is a tough task. Materializing a mere new product concept into reality involves several steps. For products with electronics, however, in addition to the standard product development steps, there are several more steps involved. Here in this blog, we shed some light on 5 important steps that entail the development of new products with electronics.

Step 1. Design the Circuit Schematic

Designing the circuit schematic for products with electronics usually involves early research so as to identify and select the ideal topology (circuit diagram) and most affordable, yet efficient components.

The step may also include running software simulations as well as bread boarding. Speaking of bread boarding, it is nothing but the creation of basic prototypes for products with electronics.

Designing the circuit schematic requires lots of thinking and considerable years of experience in the field of electronics engineering. In order to design the circuit schematic for new products with electronics, industry experts use some sort of computer software application. There are many such software applications available, but SOLIDWORKS, a part of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform from Dassault Systèmes, is the most versatile and popular.

Step 2. Develop the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) Layout

Utilizing the same software application as in Step 1., the experts now develop the PCB layout for the new product with electronics.

While some portion of the PCB layout may be auto-routed, the remaining portion would normally be routed manually. Usually, the PCB layout is very sensitive, for power components as well as RF components, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, etc.

Once the final layout is ready, the software application will let the expert know, whether the PCB matches with its schematic. The software will also check wire lengths, wire widths, spacing, and so on, to ensure that the PCB layout meets all the guidelines for the specific PCB fabrication process being used.

Step 3. Create, Assess and Debug the Prototype

Based the circuit schematic and PCB layout, a prototype PCB of a new product with electronics is fabricated and assembled with all the right electronic components. With the prototype ready, it is thoroughly assessed, and if any issues or problems are found, it will be noted and rectified.

Most inventors expect to go everything right on the first try, but this is not possible. No product prototype, whether for generic, electronic, or mechanical product, is perfect or flawless on the first go. There are always some issues with the first prototype, which need to be rectified. Rectifying a prototype PCB is a difficult step because identifying the precise problem in the field of electronics is not something easy. Even after the precise identification of the problem, coming up with a right fix can take some time.

Step 4. Program the Microcontroller

Today, almost all products with electronics have some sort of microcontroller, a small computer in the form of a chip, which acts as the brain of the product.

These microcontrollers are programmable, and they are often programmed using “C” programming language. If the program needs to be fast and efficient, other high-level assembly languages may be used.

Often, the microcontroller is programmed by the expert who has designed the circuit; however, sometimes a specialist is brought to do the programming.

One a side note, because the products with electronics use a programmable microcontroller, they can also be called products with imbedded software.

Step 5. Looks and Ergonomics

This step is always handled by other professionals. An expert who is proficient in 3D modeling is needed to create the adequate looks and ergonomic (user-friendly, comfortable and functional) designs for the new products with electronics.

Creating the packaging, i.e. the outer body or casing, for the products with electronics is a challenging task. Electrical products are susceptible to various damages; thus, when designing and developing the packaging for the products with electronics, the experts need to consider the following factors:

  1. Protection from electrostatic discharge
  2. Protection from mechanical damage
  3. Protection from electromagnetic interference
  4. Protection from heat
  5. Ease of maintenance
  6. Cost

As mentioned before, the development of products with electronics is challenging. Therefore, it will be a great idea to hire an eminent product design and product development company that, along with the design and development of generic products, also specializes in the design and development of products with electronics.

If you happen to be an innovator and need help in the design and development of the new products with electronics, then GID Development Corporation is here to help. A leading product design and product development company in California, USA, GID Development Corporation specializes in the design and development of products with electronics, electromechanical products, medical device products, and other generic as well as special-purpose products. They use the 3DEXPERIENCE platform from Dassault Systèmes, which assists them in designing and developing accurate product prototypes at reduced cost and time. No matter what the new product concept is, GID Development Corporation can “Get It Done.”

To learn more about GID Development Corporation, just visit https://www.gidcompany.com/.

Currently, GID Development Corporation is offering a free 15-minute telephonic consultation with one of the veterans, Jim Grimes. You can call Jim Grimes at 714-323-1052 between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.

Alpha Prototype and Beta Prototype – Difference Between Them in Product Prototype Development

Alpha prototype, Beta prototype, and their difference are what most people have been wondering about. For an inventor, product prototype development is essential. After all, a product prototype is a physical manifestation of a mere idea, which can serve different purposes. For one, a product prototype gives a clearer picture of what the potential product will look like. With a product prototype, the inventor can also test the various functions of the potential product in the real world. A product prototype also assists in making the final product better. Another important purpose a product prototype serves is it helps attract stakeholders, and eventually, the capital that helps take the product further close to the prospective consumers. The cardinal role a prototype plays in the new product development makes product prototype development an important function that no inventor should overlook.

Anyone can create a product prototype, but in order to have a pragmatic prototype that can serve different purposes, it is wise to hire a good product prototype development company. A good product prototype development company has the experience, knowledge to perform extensive research, and proper technology and equipment that help create accurate product prototypes.

Difference Between Alpha Prototype And Beta Prototype

When it comes to product prototyping, a product prototype development company usually creates Alpha and Beta prototypes. What is the difference between alpha and beta prototypes? Well, alpha prototypes are product prototypes that are tested internally by the prototype development company, and such prototypes usually have a lot of flaws. Beta prototypes, on the other hand, are more like the final product with more functions. Beta prototypes are normally tested by potential consumers or the general public. Here are some more details on alpha prototypes and beta prototypes:

Alpha Prototypes

Alpha, the first alphabet in the Greek language, is used for the first testable prototype variant of a potential product. Testing of the alpha prototypes is usually carried out by the product prototype development company itself, but sometimes, the company also recruits outside volunteers to test the alpha prototype.

At the alpha stage, the product prototype can have substantial flaws or missing functions, and unfinished documentation and it may even require a special environment in order to operate or function. Alpha testing can go through many iterations, and the prototype variants may add or subtract certain working features while the prototyping experts fix the flaws and make alterations based on the test feedback.

Once the alpha prototype is fairly functional and closely resembles the envisioned product, it moves to beta testing.

Beta Prototypes

Beta prototypes of a potential product are usually much closer to the final product than alpha prototypes. These product prototypes are, in most cases, tested by the prospective consumers as well as the general public.

A beta prototype is typically an augmentation of an alpha prototype – meaning it has all the functions in place that are expected for the final product. The beta prototype also has fewer flaws than the alpha prototype. The documentation is almost complete or close to complete, and the prototype is usually ready to perform or operate in the real-world environment without any assistance.

Beta testing is usually shorter than alpha testing. The reason for this is that the beta testing is usually designed to identify the minute, last-minute issues before the envisioned product is launched in the market to the actual consumers.

Product prototype development, including alpha and beta, is important. The success of the envisioned product predominantly relies on the prototypes. If you are seeking a good product prototype development company that can help develop definitive alpha and beta prototypes, then GID Development Corporation is worth considering.

GID Development Corporation is a product design, product development, and product prototype development company in California, USA. Using their years of experience in product prototyping and cutting-edge technologies, like the 3DEXPERIENCE platform from Dassault Systèmes, GID Development Corporation can help create accurate product prototypes for products with electronics, products with embedded software, electromechanical products, medical device products, and many other types of products. Aside from new product design, product development, and product prototyping, GID Development Corporation also provides a whole lot of other services that help take a product concept to reality and into the hands of prospective consumers.

To learn more about GID Development Corporation, Get In Touch. Also,  go through our official YouTube channel.

GID Development Corporation currently offers a free, 15-minute telephonic conference for those who have questions regarding new product design, product development, and product prototyping. Those who are interested can call Jim Grimes at 714-323-1052 between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.

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Outsourcing: The Best Approach to Introduce a New Product in the Market

A couple of decades ago, entrepreneurs and small companies had to do everything themselves when they wanted to introduce a new product in the market. These days, as the technology advances and people demanding more and more revolutionary products, doing everything in-house may not prove to be possible, at least, economically.

Hiring the right resources, that is, product design experts, product development engineers, prototyping geniuses, marketing gurus, sales whizzes, etc., on a full-time basis, is incredibly expensive, especially for entrepreneurs and small companies. Fortunately, these days, there are several good American product design and product development companies established to whom these small companies and entrepreneurs can turn to when it comes to introducing new products in the market. Outsourcing most of the requirements is a prudent solution, allowing entrepreneurs to get the very best, and only pay the outsource partner when they need its assistance. Here are some of the functions that an entrepreneur can outsource:

Product Design & Product Development

Unless you are a skilled engineer, experienced with creating new products, you will certainly want to outsource the processes of product design and development of your potential product. Even if you are a good engineer, many projects need multiple engineers with multiple skill sets. For instance, any electromechanical product typically needs, at least, a mechanical engineer, an electrical engineer, and an industrial designer who can create a suitable casing or enclosure for the potential product. If your concept is for a product with embedded software, you will definitely need a software engineer.

Further, if a certain portion of an electrical product, mechanical product, electromechanical product, medical device product, or any other product, is complex, you may need multiple engineers with different skill sets. Having such engineers permanently is expensive and not impractical, as you will not need them frequently. For that reason, outsourcing product design and product development is the best approach.

Product Prototype Development

Product prototype development is another important function that you may want to outsource. Similar to product design and product development, product prototype development is a difficult process, which requires experience, multiple skill sets, and adequate product prototyping software and equipment. Having full-time product prototyping experts with vast experience and multiple skill sets is again very expensive. Further, acquiring product prototyping software and equipment is also costly. For that reason, outsourcing product prototype development makes sense.

Bulk Manufacturing

Bulk manufacturing is one of those important functions that you should certainly consider outsourcing. Bulk manufacturing a new product means establishing a suitable-size facility, procuring expensive manufacturing equipment, setting up an assembly line, hiring different personnel, and so on. This involves a colossal investment, which may simply prove impractical or impossible for small companies and entrepreneurs. Outsourcing bulk manufacturing drastically reduces expenses as well as risks.

It will be in the best interest to outsource bulk manufacturing to a USA-based company that is capable of small production runs. Once things start to flow smoothly, you can turn to an Asian manufacturer to raise your profit margins.

Marketing

Marketing should be the least likely function to be outsourced. No one can do better marketing of your product than yourself. This function should be performed in-house. You can hire several marketing consultants who may perform some research and offer good marketing guidance. Having an in-house marketing team will also provide you a good control over your marketing efforts. Still, if you are a startup with limited capital, you can consider outsourcing the marketing to a specialized agency.

Sales

Similar to bulk manufacturing, this is another crucial function that you should consider outsourcing. Sales representatives or manufacturers’ representatives are an important component in just about every industry. They typically work on a commission, so you do not have to pay them anything until they truly generate sales. It is really a prudent decision to outsource sales.

Outsourcing sales function not only saves money, but it also helps you establish and connect to the wide sales network channels. Selling a new product to distributors and wholesalers usually requires a strong connection, which you will certainly gain by outsourcing to sales representatives.

Well, these are certain functions that are worth outsourcing. Some product design and product development companies in the USA can carry out all the functions on your behalf. For instance, check out GID Development Corporation. A vastly experienced product design and product development company in California, USA, GID Development Corporation provides complete A – Z services, from new product design to product fulfillment and everything in between. Whether you want to take a new medical device product, new electromechanical product or any other type of product to the market, GID Development Corporation will assist in every phase. Learn more about GID Development Corporation.

Currently, the leading product design and development company in the US, GID Development Corporation is offering a free 15-minute telephonic consultation with one of the veterans, Jim Grimes. You can call Jim at 714-323-1052 between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.

Engineers who can Help Bring your Product Concept to Reality

Product development, especially for a budding inventor, can certainly be a daunting task. It is very important that you, as an inventor, get in touch with the right engineers in order to breathe life to your product. However, oftentimes, it can be very confusing what kind of engineers you require in order to develop your revolutionary product.

Normally, it will be in your best interest to approach a good product development company that has multiple engineers with different skill sets on board. The reason for this is that your breakthrough product could be anything – an electromechanical product, a product with electronics, medical device product, or a product with imbedded software. Now, developing such products will require different engineers and not just one kind of engineers.

Here are some of the common engineers whom you should be able to find in a good product development company that you may decide to hire.

Industrial Engineer

If your potential product needs a custom plastic case, then industrial engineers are the ones who will help. Most inventors delay taking the assistance of an industrial engineer because they somehow work out with a stock, off-the-shelf case for their products. Unfortunately, such products, in most cases, fail to make an impact because they lack aesthetics and ergonomics. Off-the-shelf cases neither provide aesthetics, nor ergonomics. They are just plain old cases.

Industrial engineers can help with the ideal product design. Whether your product is too complex mechanically or too elaborate electronically, they can help create a suitable case for your product, which has excellent aesthetics and ergonomics.

If your product is too simple, mechanically or electronically, then you can get the case designed by a 3D modeler. Using a computer-aided industrial design software application, like Dassault Systèmes’ CATIA, a 3D modeler can help create detailed designs of a case, for your product. You can then take these detailed designs to a good plastic product manufacturer who can help bulk manufacture the product cases.

Electrical Engineer

If you are developing a product with electronics, electromechanical product, or a product with imbedded software, you will need the assistance of good electrical engineers. Electrical engineering is a broad field; hence, it will be a good idea to go to a product development company that has several electrical engineers with different skill sets. An electrical engineer, who can work on a high-voltage system cannot work on portable devices! Similarly, an electrical engineer, who can design schematics and PCB layouts for products with imbedded software will have difficulty programming a microcontroller for those products; it actually requires a software engineer with specialization in electronics to program a microcontroller for products with imbedded software.

Some electrical engineers specialize in analog design while others specialize in digital design. You might be able to find engineers specializing in multiple disciplines, but such professionals are very rare! Therefore, get in touch with a good product development company that has on board a handful of electrical engineers with specialization in different electrical engineering disciplines.

Mechanical Engineer

If your product has moving parts, mechanical engineers can help you design and develop that product. Similar to electrical engineering, mechanical engineering is a broad field. In fact, it is the broadest field of engineering. Mechanical engineering involves the application of mechanics, material science, kinematics, structural analysis, and thermodynamics to name a few. No single mechanical engineer has the skills to apply all these core concepts. For that reason, hire a product development company that has several mechanical engineers on board.

Aside from these, there are biomedical engineers who help with the design and development of medical device products, biomechanics engineers who help with the design and development of sports products, manufacturing engineers who help with the design and development of machines, tools and equipment, power engineers who help with the design and development of high-voltage power systems, and many more.

With it comes to new product development, it is always a good idea to go to an eminent product development company that has on board a good team of engineers having specialization in different engineering fields.

If you are in search of such a product development company, then look no further than GID Development Corporation. A leading product development company in California, USA, GID Development Corporation provides A – Z services, from new product design to taking the new product to the consumers and everything in between. They have an experienced in-house team of engineers, product designers, and other professionals that can help bring any product concept to reality.

Learn more about GID Development Corporation by heading over to their website https://www.gidcompany.com/.

Currently, the leading product development company in the US, GID Development Corporation is offering a free 15-minute telephonic consultation with one of the veteran industrial engineers, Jim Grimes. You can call Jim at 714-323-1052 between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.