Monday, September 29, 2008

In-House Prototype Equipment

PRG, Inc. recently added to its in-house prototype capabilities with the addition of a Dimension Elite Prototype machine.  This machine utilizes real ABS plastic to give proof-of-concept models as well as functional snap-fit parts.  The best part about this prototype machine is that there are also several material color choices, which all utilize the ABS material.  ABS is widely used in the production of plastics, and this new technology gives a great representation of a finished part.  The prototypes can also be sanded and painted to match specific pantone colors.  Our company provides this prototype service using 3D CAD data either created by our Engineers, or we have the ability to take your 3D file and provide free quotes.

 

Tyler Harrell

President

Plastic Resource Group, Inc.

 www.creativeprototyping.com | Office 620.230.0180 | Fax 866.284.1749 | 2809 N Broadway | Pittsburg, KS 66762

 

 

 

Friday, September 26, 2008

Virtual Prototype

One of the most awesome advances in showing what a new product will look like is the Virtual Prototype.  They look real, and are wonderful for marketing presentations and visually seeing how a product will look prior to prototyping or production.  This is a picture of a concept office building with details that show trees, cars, parking lot, and landscaping.  It allows you visually know what you’re getting before you build anything.  Our company builds Virtual Prototypes using 3D CAD engineering files.

 

 

Tyler Harrell

President

Plastic Resource Group, Inc.

 www.creativeprototyping.com | Office 620.230.0180 | Fax 866.284.1749 | 2809 N Broadway | Pittsburg, KS 66762

 

 

 

To Prototype or Not to Prototype

When developing and creating a new product that will be sold in the consumer marketplace, it is important to understand the complete process of what you’re up against.  It has been said in some cases that prototype development is not necessary, and in other cases that you should build a prototype.  This is naturally dependent on how what materials you use, how the product functions, and what the overall focus of development should be.  In most cases, prototypes can be made inexpensively to show the look and feel of the product.  One standard process is Rapid Prototyping, which uses 3D CAD data and builds the part from scratch. 

 

I am personally of the opinion that Engineering and Prototype is necessary prior to Patent Protection, or any other stages of development.  This is the first stage in creating a new product to ensure it will function properly and is designed to be manufactured.  There are a variety of prototype levels, all with a separate price.  The question is always:  Do I want a ford escort, or a Cadillac.  This depends on whether or not you are making a presentation to a large company, or if you just want to prove that the product will function.  Much more to come on prototypes… 

 

Tyler Harrell

President

Plastic Resource Group, Inc.

 www.creativeprototyping.com | Office 620.230.0180 | Fax 866.284.1749 | 2809 N Broadway | Pittsburg, KS 66762

 

 

 

Welcome to our Blog

We are proud to now be able to share information with Inventors/Entrepreneurs/Businesses who are interested in Prototype Development, Plastic Consulting Services, 3D CAD Design, and a variety of other services.  Please continue to check back each week to learn more about product development, the prototype processes, and valuable information on how new products go to market.

 

 

Tyler Harrell

President

Plastic Resource Group, Inc.

 www.creativeprototyping.com | Office 620.230.0180 | Fax 866.284.1749 | 2809 N Broadway | Pittsburg, KS 66762