Developing new programs and products with our custom materials is at the heart of our success. Operating as an extension of your engineering teams, we work closely with you on everything from and technology development to rapid prototypes and preproduction support.
FROM CONCEPT TO PRODUCTION WE WORK AS YOUR DEVELOPMENT PARTNER THROUGH ALL STAGES OF THE PRODUCT LIFECYCLE
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
We have expertise in R&D and material science in polymers, metals, and coatings at our Lupine Research Division. We focus on identifying new materials to improve product functionality and developing innovative processes to address the changing needs of our customers.
We also can provide full FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis) to identify potential gaps within the design or process upfront and utilize simulative software to improve outcomes before any fabrication starts.
PROTOTYPING
Preliminary models to illustrate a concept or fully functional and “production level” prototyping capabilities and everything in between are available from The Weiss-Aug Group.
METAL PROTOTYPES
From solid models, we can deliver accurate prototypes to you in days or emulate a production process utilizing laser, machining, P-ECM, and prototype tooling depending on your prototype needs. For example, quick turn prototypes from our LaserLab Technology center combined with Chaku Chaku (single piece flow) manufacturing support preproduction builds. We even can reel to reel laser cut metal coil to facilitate easy blank development.
Plastic or Metal/Plastic Prototypes and assembly prototypes
For multi-material prototypes, we will often use a combination of prototyping technology. Plastic components can be fabricated through additive technology and assembled through UV adhesive or welding.
Core Prototype Technologies
Development of prototype parts alone do not afford our customers the best value. Discussions regarding parts assembly and other secondary requirements typically offer additional savings.
LaserLab Capabilities
The Weiss-Aug Group Laserlab Technology Center is equipped with best-in-class cutting and etching equipment, not available anywhere else. So, how does this better support your prototyping needs?
Faster and more accurate development to start, along with the capability to produce complex precise geometry. Combined with reel-to-reel laser cutting capability, we can create fully formed stampings through the use of modular form tools and flexible servo stamping presses. This equates to a shortened design phase and a faster time to market.
We can also work with other materials besides metal please contact us to learn more.
Early Phase Bridge Tooling
Bridge tooling can offer the stability and robust processing of production level tooling but a lower price commitment and more flexibility for future iterations. Additionally, PPAP and IQOQPQ requirements can be achieved on these platforms should your production volumes not require additional investment.
For Progressive stamping bridge tool platforms, we use lighter tool steels and fewer stations. We design and fabricate bridge dies that can handle from ten thousand to a few hundred thousand parts. If you have an over-molded or injection molded product, typically we can utilize bases we have in stock to customize with inserts for your specific part.
CONCEPTUAL DEVELOPMENT
- Beginning with sketches and ideas
- Advanced concept development support
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
- Feasibility studies
- Material selection
- Critical characteristics
MODELING
- CAD
- Moldflow
- FEA
PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURING
- Proof of concept
- Prototype from a few pieces to a few thousand
- Additive manufacturing
- Laser Lab Technology Center
- Bench top stamping and forming
- Bridge tooling
FIT, FORM, FUNCTION
- Metrology
- Testing
“R&D, product development, prototyping are all terms that describe steps for the overall process in developing a product for manufacturing. We believe this process should be all encompassing. Our award winning New Program Development Team, which consists of highly creative and experienced tool makers & engineers, is focused on working with you in developing your concept into a product that is ready for manufacturing.”
– Steve Czapla - Manager NPD Stamping
GET IN TOUCH LET US HELP YOU WITH YOUR PROJECT
As the internationally recognized leader in precision metal stamping, injection molding, value-added assembly solutions, and tooling, serving the medical device industry, automotive industry, and industrial sector for over 48 years. We provide design, prototype, advanced engineering support, and manufacturing services, ensuring a seamless transition from prototype to production.