Prototyping Engineering
Wavotec cover complete progress for Prototyping Engineering, from Concept Design to Prototype Fabrication, we help customers achieve products meet your requirements.
Concept Design
Wavotec Concept design utilizes sketching, CAD, and digital tools to rapidly visualize and evaluate ideas. Key technologies include:
- 2D/3D Software: Photoshop, Illustrator, Rhino, SketchUp
- CAD Modeling: SolidWorks, Fusion 360 for preliminary geometry
- Rendering: KeyShot, Blender for realistic visuals
- Prototyping: 3D printing, laser cutting for physical mock-ups
- UI/UX Tools: Figma, Adobe XD for interactive concepts
This integration enables fast iteration and early validation of form, function, and feasibility.
Digital Modeling
Wavotec Digital modeling employs specialized software to create precise virtual representations of objects and systems :
- CAD Software: SolidWorks, CATIA, Fusion 360 for design
- BIM Tools: Revit, ArchiCAD for architectural, structural modeling
- Polygon Modeling: Blender, Maya, ZBrush
- Parametric Design: Grasshopper, Dynamo
- Simulation Integration: ANSYS, COMSOL for embedded analysis
This approach enables accurate visualization, simulation, and modification of designs before physical production.
Prototype Fabrication
Wavotec Prototype fabrication transforms digital models into physical parts for functional and visual testing. Key technologies include:
- Additive Manufacturing: FDM, SLA, SLS 3D printing for rapid prototyping
- CNC Machining: Milling, turning for high-precision metal and plastic parts
- Laser Cutting / Engraving: For sheet materials and detailed surface patterning
- Vacuum Casting: Urethane casting for small-batch production
- Electronics Prototyping: PCB milling, soldering, and embedded systems testing
Concept Design
- Product ID Design for customers
- CAD Modeling
- Rendering
- Supplier selection
Digital Modeling
- Mechanical Design
- FEMA and DFEMA
- Create Precise Virtual concept
- Simulation Integration
Prototyping
- Finalize 3D/2D drawing
- Tooling Design
- Tooling Fabrication to TO
- Prototype mock-up and evaluation
Test and Iteration
- Tooling Optimization
- Jig / Tooling Iteration
- Prototype retest and analysis
- Summarization
Prototyping Method Selection Guide
1. 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing)
Process: Builds parts layer by layer from digital models
Best for: Complex geometries, custom designs, rapid iterations
Materials: Plastics (PLA, ABS, resin), metals, composites
Lead time: Hours to days
Cost: Low to medium per part
4. Vacuum Casting (Urethane Casting)
Process: Creates silicone molds from master patterns for multiple copies
Best for: Small batches (20-50 units), production-like quality
Materials: Polyurethane resins (simulating ABS, PP, rubber)
Lead time: 1-2 weeks
Cost: Medium for small batches
2. Laser Cutting (Acrylic/Sheet Materials)
Process: Precisely cuts or engraves flat sheet materials
Best for: Flat components, enclosures, panels, signage
Materials: Acrylic, wood, fabric, thin metals
Lead time: Minutes to hours
Cost: Very low per part
5. Sheet Metal Fabrication
Process: Cutting, bending, and assembling metal sheets
Best for: Metal enclosures, brackets, chassis
Materials: Steel, aluminum, copper sheets
Lead time: Days to weeks
Cost: Low to medium per part
3. CNC Machining (Subtractive Manufacturing)
Process: Computer-controlled cutting from solid blocks
Best for: High-precision functional parts, metal components
Materials: Metals, engineering plastics, wood
Lead time: Days
Cost: Medium to high per part
6. Low-Volume Injection Molding
Process: Injection molding with aluminum molds
Best for: Medium batches (100-10,000 units), pre-production validation
Materials: Production-grade thermoplastics
Lead time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: High setup, low per part cost at volume