Design + Engineering

Partnering for Success From the Start

We are experts at bringing ideas to life. Our engineers design prototypes and finished products that deliver high value and exceptional outcomes. With our design for manufacturing expertise, the latest solid modeling and machine-utilization software, we ensure each project starts with a design that’s optimized to reduce waste, costs and production timelines.

At Jones Metal, we believe that collaborating with our partners at the earliest phase of the design process brings the best results forward. We identify potential pitfalls and develop creative solutions long before the project hits our production floor. Then we follow the project every step of the way, streamlining and problem-solving, to ensure minimal time is lost on false starts or failed prototypes.

PROTOTYPE DESIGN PROCESS

STAGE 1: DETERMINING NEEDS

We work with projects at every stage of design, from the early concept phases to fully developed files all packaged up and ready to go. Our first stage when developing a new prototype is determining where the project currently stands.

We’ll use information gathered from the initial request for a custom quote as well as follow-up conversations to identify opportunities for refinement. Depending on the needs of the partner, this refinement stage may look like:

• Developing one or more designs from scratch.
• Modifying the partner’s existing design.
• Optimizing the design for Jones Metal manufacturing processes.

Only when the partner is completely satisfied with the design files, does the physical prototyping begin.

STAGE 2: CREATING THE PROTOTYPE

When a prototype is desired, either from a new partner or for a particularly challenging new project, the process is collaborative. Our engineers work closely with partners to create a prototype that is optimally designed for manufacturability. This means that even if the first prototype isn’t 100% perfect, clear communication and documentation ensures a subsequent iteration will be.

STAGE 3: FROM PROTOTYPE TO FINAL PRODUCT

Once the prototyping process is complete, we’ll begin manufacturing the final components following the precise specifications set out in the prototype design. This is the stage where our efforts to develop an optimized process pay off.

Every part of manufacturing—from the materials and machines used to the sequence of machining and assembly steps—is planned with timeliness, cost efficiency and precision in mind. All to ensure our clients receive the best possible product in the end.