Product and Tooling Validation Process
After design validation approval, either through prototype tooling or 3D-printed samples, the project is moved into the production validation stage. The knowledge gained during previous steps is applied to the tooling design and manufacturing process to ensure the intended results are achieved. This may include our Design for Manufacturing or DFM process.
Once the tool is produced, first article samples are molded and go through Panova’s extensive evaluation and inspection process to ensure all specifications are met. Full documentation, certifications, and the molded samples are then delivered to the client for their evaluation and testing and final approval prior to releasing production.
Should any changes be needed after review of the first articles, the Panova team will carefully review these changes to ensure that we fully understand the “what” and “why”. Upon complete clarification, changes to the tool and/or process are made, and if needed, another round of samples are run, inspected, and submitted for client approval.
Panova goes above and beyond what most typical contract manufacturers can offer. Through a complete and thorough validation of each product, we help ensure the long-term success and sustainability of your overall project.
Achieving Validation Through Analysis of Your Product’s Unique Needs and Functionality
Product validation begins with defining clear goals and functional requirements for your products. To achieve this understanding and clarify the unique needs of your product, it’s important to define the following:
- Function: What is the product designed to do? Why does it exist?
- Motion: Is there a lot of motion? Is it something that turns on/off or rotates constantly? Are there wear factors that need to be considered?
- Life expectancy: How long will it need to last? Is it difficult to assess and replace if needed? Is it designed to be maintained?
- Environment: Are there harsh conditions (e.g. temperatures, chemicals)?
- Frequency: Will the product be used every day? Or will it sit dormant for a long period of time?
Choosing the Best Material Possible for Your
Custom-Molded Products
At Panova, we apply the latest innovations in materials science in order to manufacture the highest-quality molded products possible. Throughout the design, validation, and testing stages, we help you choose the most optimal manufacturing materials possible. Some of the crucial considerations made by our engineers include:
- Mechanical: How strong does the material need to be from a mechanical perspective? Is it a product that deals with high loads? Is it something that needs to be metal or can it be a plastic part?
- Optical: Is there transparency or optical clarity that is required?
- Thermal: Are there high/low temperature heat requirements that need to be met?
- Color: Does color matter? Is it a part that is seen every day that has a human interface? Or is it hidden inside a machine? Can color be used as a differentiator for material identification, component assembly, or other important criteria?
- Electrical: Does the material need to insulate, or does it need to conduct electricity?
- Flammability: Is the product exposed to an open flame or high temperature? If so, you would need a material that doesn’t burn.
From Product Validation to Full-Scale Production
Panova is one of the industry’s leading manufacturers of quality molded rubber products. Our company is a total solutions provider – from product design and validation to full-scale production. We strive to optimize your products, streamline your supply chain, and provide you with an economical manufacturing plan that is optimized for your unique project.