Sneak up on success
- Caleb Vainikka
- Jun 30, 2021
- 1 min read
Sneak up on success by taking small steps that validate assumptions.
Prototypes can reduce risk for later investments, in Time or Money. Here's a story about how a quick prototype saved me time.
I had a sheetmetal cooling shroud designed, ready to order.
The lead time was critical factor.
I had extra budget, but no extra time.
To mitigate schedule risk, I printed a copy of the Sheet Metal part. I folded it up using hot glue to bond the joints.
Everything fit together perfectly. I was pleased.
But then I went to install it and found that my screwdriver didn't have clearance on the bolt head. I had to redesign, move the screws to the sides rather than the top of the shroud.
My printed surrogate parts were a good stand-in. Not for dimensional tolerance inspection, as many of my prototypes are.
It was for the dummy fit check. How are we going to put this together once parts get here? In hindsight, I could've used a cardboard mockup before I started CAD. I love prototyping, and sharing stories of things I've learned.
Let me know how I can help you be successful!
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