Designing for Manufacturability – Part 1: Practical Considerations

When designing parts for manufacturability there are a lot of factors to consider. In this multi-part blog series, we will explore these factors, highlight the steps you need to take to recognize a part’s manufacturability, and touch upon the importance of having a partner that is willing to address issues and suggest necessary improvements.

It is our goal to have our readers walk away with a true understanding of how to ensure production efficiency and quality while taking care of potential problems in the design itself.

Designing for manufacturability (DFM) is the general engineering practice of designing products in such a way that they are easy to manufacture. Ultimately it comes down to designing the best product at the lowest cost. To do this successfully it is important for all involved to be aware of practical considerations.

First off, you need to understand the product’s real need.

• How is the product going to be used?
• What is the purpose of the product?
• What is the environment that the product is going to be used in?

Next, you must acknowledge the product’s constraints.

• Are there constraints around cost?
• Are there constraints around time?
• Are there regulations, either industry or federal?
• What is the capacity or capability of the manufacturing facility or the client?

Lastly, what are the specifications?

• What are the limitations of certain materials?
• What are the limitations of the production location?
• Is there any history related to the product design that needs to be considered?

While taking all of this into account, it is imperative that you limit over constraints. Over constraints are over specifications that include, but are not limited to:

• Having tolerances that are too tight.
• Requiring a material that isn’t necessary for the product.

Take some time to review this information then get ready for Part 2 of our Designing for Manufacturability series where we will dive into design considerations as they relate to a product’s needs.

Ready to learn more, right now? Download the full “Designing for Manufacturability – Can Your Design Really Be Produced” training here.

Read Other Blog Posts:

• 5 Trends in 3D Printing to Watch
• 3D Printing’s Benefits and Limitations
• 3D Printing: The Biggest Disruptor to the Manufacturing Industry in the Last Decade
• 3D Printing’s Evolution from Novelty Process to Mainstream Manufacturing  

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