Research & Development
Phases Overview
Dielectrics' R&D process is generally made up of the following phases: 
Concept Development
"Can you make this napkin sketch?"
When it comes to thermoplastics, the answer is "Yes"! By merging prototype and production processes with exacting, superior craftsmanship, we can make representative concept pieces that bring to life even the roughest concepts. These are commonly used for:
* Investor presentations * Concept verification * Brainstorming / Ideation sessions * Marketing studies
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Feasibility / Prototyping
"It's a great design, but will it work?"
This phase is used to vet out all possible design alternatives and set up a down-selecting process - a systematic and empirical method of eliminating least likely candidates. Using proprietary prototype tooling, we create production-quality features quickly and cost-effectively. In many cases, these prototypes are functional.
The question of feasibility also applies to the ability to make production volumes reliably. As an experienced medical device manufacturer, we know that a robust quality control system and the ability to thoroughly test the product are as important as having a great design. Consequently, we develop the knowledge base and tools to ensure that both the product and test protocol are ISO-compliant. This process can include preliminary DV-studies and custom test platforms.
At this stage, initial cost models are also evaluated. As the model continues to be refined throughout the product development process, a production quote is provided during the commercialization stage.
Technology Development
"I know what I want, but don't know how to get there."
Today's innovative developers often require more than off-the-shelf materials and traditional processes. We understand this and subsequently welcome the challenge of producing the seeming impossible. Many of our contracts have involved:
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Commercialization
"Where the rubber meets the road."
By this point in the development process, most of the technical risk has been eliminated. In the commercialization stage, we systematically capture all that was learned during development and translate it into a succinct set of instructions that govern the high-volume manufacture of the product. This process takes a team of experienced professionals who cover the following range of activities:
* Pilot Production
* DFM
* FMEA / PFMEA
* Device Master Record development
* Device History Record design
* Capability Studies
* Pilot production / validations (DV/OQ/PQ)
From design freeze to tooling / machine design to final product release, each stage in our process is meticulously controlled and documented to ensure that the results are both expected and repeatable.
To aid this transition, Dielectrics maintains dedicated prototyping laboratory and pilot production space where any glitches, bugs, or weak processes are recognized and corrected before release to the production floor.