Venture-Backed Prototype Build
Challenges
AMFAS International serves customers ranging from global brands to entrepreneurial startups. One customer, a startup in the beauty industry, came to AMFAS for assistance with manufacturing parts for a proof-of-concept prototype.
The startup’s engineering team needed a manufacturer who could provide a commitment to quality throughout the manufacturing and logistical process which would ensure the company would meet the venture capitalists’ strict timelines.
AMFAS provided an efficient partnership within its fields of expertise including product development, rapid manufacturing, and quality management.
How AMFAS Helped
The prototype contained a gantry that needed to be light weight but sturdy enough to support the prototype’s internal mechanism and maintain its structural integrity.
Initially, Amfas suggested a folded, single-piece design to maximize manufacturing efficiency. After studying the product application further, Amfas designed a four-part aluminum frame with improved bearing mount locations.
- The four legs of the frame were laser cut.
- Holes for bearings were precisely machined using low speed wire electrical discharge machining (LS-WEDM).
- The four legs were then welded together at precise 90-degree angles to create the complete frame.
Because the frame needed to be square, the design engineers ensured that each corner of the frame maintained its angle throughout machining.
Amfas also provided manufacturing input on a plastic cartridge within the prototype. The part needed to be moldable and resistant to acetone. Amfas selected an appropriate polypropylene/polyoxymethylene material and gave design input to make the part manufacturable.
This involvement in the design process allowed the startup to create a working prototype and proceed with the next design iteration.
Amfas initiated project management meetings to ensure deadlines were met and the project was completed in a timely manner. During these meetings, Amfas engineers acted as an extension of the design team, offering redesign insights, manufacturing suggestions, and quality improvements.
Amfas also provided assembly for certain parts and conducted virtual part inspections to shorten lead times and help the company meet investor deadlines.
Results and Future Plans
With Amfas’ help, the startup provided proof of concept to investors by the deadline and received additional funding for the next phase of the project.
Amfas continues to work with the customer, providing design input and manufacturing for future iterations.
At Amfas International, we are at the forefront of innovation with our venture-backed fast prototyping build services. As a leading custom manufacturing company based in Memphis, we understand the need for speed and precision in today’s market.
- Our advanced 3D printing and CNC machining capabilities allow us to turn ideas into reality quickly.
- We focus on custom manufacturing, working with both startups and established businesses.
- Our rapid prototyping approach enables fast testing, iteration, and refinement.
Our fast-prototyping services are backed by cutting-edge technology and skilled engineers. Whether you need aluminum castings, plastic components, or complex assemblies, Amfas is your trusted partner in bringing innovative products to market.
By choosing Amfas International for your custom manufacturing needs, you benefit from expertise, efficiency, and a strong commitment to quality.
