industrial design process

Our Design Methodology

Every project has its own unique challenges and opportunities. At the start of each project we provide our clients a detailed proposal and project breakdown that adjusts our design methodology to meet the specific needs of their project.
The following steps outline our typical design methodology:

1. Research & Design Strategy

Critical information about the product, market, user, and technology is determined through research and observation. The results are cataloged and interpreted into a comprehensive Design Strategy that acts as a guide and measuring stick for future development.

Typical tasks associated with our Research & Design Strategy phase include:
  • Trend & Market Identification
  • Ethnographic research
  • Feature Definition
  • Brand Strategy
  • Ergonomic studies
  • Sustainability Analysis
  • Competitive product audits
  • Technical feasibility analysis
industrial design strategy

Product Competition Analysis: Cell Phone Chargers

concept design

Digital concept sketch using Alias Sketchbook

2. Concept Generation & Industrial Design

Concept sketches are generated to rapidly explore a wide range of ideas and quickly identify and explore opportunities for innovation. Sketches are iterated and scenarios imagined during brainstorming sessions with client-side teams. The ultimate goal is to generate a range of potential design directions that capitalize on the opportunities identified in the Design Strategy.

3. Design Development

Selected design concepts are refined using quick sketch and CAD models. Specific aesthetic and ergonomic details are confirmed and tested with rough physical models. Photo-realistic renderings are produced of external surfaces and detail areas allowing the client to visualize and experience the final product concepts. A final design concept is selected and approved for CAD Development.

Additional tasks often associated with our Design Development Phase include:
  • Experience Prototyping
  • Ergonomic Testing
  • Color Studies
  • Pre-market renderings
design rendering

Surface rendering of concept design with coffee cup to show scale

3d Cad design

Exploded view of fender assembly

4. 3D CAD Documentation and Surfacing

CAD models are created detailed to include functional details such as mounts, inserts, and as well as production details such as draft, wall thickness, parting lines. External surfaces are evaluated and optimized enabling seamless transitions and optimal experience. Tangram has relationships with external partners that can assist with Electronics Design, Finite Element Analysis, and Mechanical Engineering and Invention if desired.
Additional tasks often associated with our Documentation Phase include:
  • Mechanism design
  • Complex surface development and analysis
  • Design for assembly
  • Production and dimensioned drawings
  • Product Lifecycle Analysis

5. Rapid Prototyping & Testing

Finished products can be simulated using a variety of rapid prototyping methods to allow for preliminary testing and analysis prior to production. Prototypes can be painted and used in trade-shows, presentations, or for pre-market photography.
rapid prototyping

Stereolithography samples primed and ready for assembly and testing

industrial design specification

Colour and material spec sheets

6. Production

Tangram can assist clients with production liaison and brand strategy including:.
  • Vendor Selection and Liaison
  • Packaging
  • Assembly and Instruction Guides
  • Patent Drawings
  • Logos and Product Graphics