Taking Shape: Plastics to Prototypes

FireBoard, like many tech companies, is continually working to provide new products for its customers. At times, these are updates of an existing product, such as from the original FireBoard FBX11 to the current FireBoard 2 series. Other times, it’s the introduction of an entirely new product, such as the FireBoard Spark a few years ago.

The process is simple, brainstorm sessions are held to discuss the product roadmap and then the new product is released. 

Not so fast!

Long before a new product is shipped out the door, countless hours are invested by the Design and R&D departments. Once a product has generally been given the green light, many decisions have to be made on exactly what that product looks like. Does it have probe ports? Is there a rechargeable battery? What will the display look like and how big should it be? What other components and features should be included?

That process is a constantly moving target as features get added and then get dropped only to have them added once again. This is all a day-in-the-life affair for FireBoard’s lead product designer, Paul Skelton. He works closely with other members of the FIreBoard team as they determine the shape, physically and otherwise, of the final product.

Paul uses SLA (stereolithography) 3D printing to help determine the final physical shape of the product. He may print hundreds of samples and iterations prior to a final design. The SLA printer is a major tool in Paul’s arsenal as he can print samples in hours or even minutes and make changes based on what those samples reveal.

Paul also relies on trusted suppliers. These relationships are extremely important because suppliers often provide engineering support to ensure that products are not only functional but also easy to mold and manufacture. Suppliers can also provide a valuable second opinion, helping FireBoard achieve the best possible production quality, consistency, and long-term reliability.

Thus, the process is certainly NOT fast! However, the methodical approach combined with faster prototyping helps to identify and solve problems early. And finally, with trusted partners, FireBoard can provide quality and reliable products to its customers.