Bitar Machine Design’s success stems from a combination of factors. Our experienced team delivers exceptional results, while our network connections have led to valuable partnerships and collaborations.
Our lean business model allows for cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality. Ultimately, it is our clients’ visionary product ideas that drive our passion and motivation, inspiring us to create innovative designs that exceed expectations.
Learn more about our full service offering below…
Project Planning & Consultation
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Project Budget Estimates
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Project Timeline Estimates
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General Engineering Project Management
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Product Viability/Feasibility Studies
Full-Cycle Product Development
Mechanical Design & Development
Electronics Design & Development
Rapid Prototyping
Reverse Engineering
Cost Reduction Design
Design for Manufacturing
Engineering Analysis
Structural Analysis – FEA
Flow Analysis – CFD
Magnetic Performance Analysis – FEMM
Electronics Analysis
Intellectual Property Related Services
- Referral to in-house Patent Counsel
- Provisional, Utility and Design Patent Drawings
- Patent Landscape Analysis & Searches
- 35 U.S.C 102-103 Circumventions/Design-arounds
What are the stages of product development?
Feasibility Study
- Preliminary research & Calculations
- Proof of concept CAD design
- Proof of concept circuit design
Concept Development
- Preliminary CAD Models
- Preliminary PCB Design
Alpha prototype
- Functional Testing
Detailed Design Development
- Design revisions based on Alpha Testing
- Design for Manufacturing
- Design for Assembly
- Manufacturing Drawings
Beta Prototype
- Functional Testing
- Finishing for Demonstration
Manufacturing
- Costed Bill of Materials
- Sourcing and Supply Chain Development
- Manufacturing purchase orders
What is the difference between a proof of concept, a functional prototype, and a production-ready design?
- Proof of concept is the first stage. Bare bones physical prototype often using off the shelf components assembled together quickly to prove the idea. This stage is sometimes referred to as the MVP (minimal viable product).
- Functional prototyping, sometimes referred to as concept development, begins once the proof of concept has validated the idea. During this phase, preliminary engineering and design work are completed to bring the prototype’s aesthetics and functionality closer to the final product vision.
- Production-ready design is the final stage. This is where “design for manufacturing” work and manufacturing drawings, electronics bill of materials (EBOM) is completed. Here we take a close look at the mature alpha or beta prototype and make sure can be manufactured for the lowest cost, it’s easy to assemble, and it can be packaged and shipped.
How do I know if my product idea is technically feasible?
We can perform a feasibility study on the idea where we perform high level engineering calculations to determine if the idea is technically possible. Alternatively, this is where the proof-of-concept phase can happen where we build a quick prototype to make sure the idea is sound.
What information should I prepare before starting a product development project?
Concept images like hand drawn sketches or renderings, proof of concept prototypes are always helpful to if you’re able. A realistic budget and timeline as well would help align our work to your product vision.
When should I think about manufacturing during the product development process?
We consider manufacturing processes early in the development process during the concept phase. This helps save time during the design for manufacturing stage.
Do I need a patent before I start prototyping or product development?
Not always. Sometimes it’s better to develop a prototype before seeking IP protection. The patent process can be expensive, and we often advise our clients to prove the idea first before filing a patent application.
What usually makes a physical product difficult or expensive to manufacture?
We are experts at engineering value in the products we work on. What that means is we can usually design a product to be mass-manufactured for the lowest cost. However, things like
- Custom large complex metal CNC parts or metal parts that can’t be stamped or cast or made with any other cheaper process.
- Exotic materials like carbon fiber, titanium, inconel, precious metals etc.
- The latest electronics sensor or component.
- Circuit boards with many layers or that require a unique stack up of layers.
- High density electrical features like micro or buried vias.
- Electronic parts like solar panels that have special import restrictions.
What do I do if my idea is already patented by someone else?
We offer a design circumvention development cycle which involves collecting and evaluating all relevant patents and IP and developing a strategy that avoids infringement.
Can you improve or redesign an existing product, not just develop new ones?
Yes, product adaptation and product improvement projects are great projects and can often offer lower project budgets.
Can I sell/license my product before manufacturing?
- Once you have applied for a provisional patent you are clear to sell os start marketing the product. If you choose not to seek a patent, then you can sell/market at any time.
- Regarding licensing before manufacturing, typically this is not possible. Big companies want to know the product or patent they’re purchasing would sell (i.e. return profit on their investment). So, licensing usually happens after the product has been manufactured and sales have been generated.
- Similarly, early investors want to see a fully functional prototype and a manufacturing plan before investing. Bitar Machine Design has helped many clients develop a manufacturing strategy and build up a supply chain.