When designing a part for manufacturing, many of our customers want to know what will make the process go more smoothly. In past newsletters, we've discussed things like
tooling and
EMI shielding, and both are important things to consider before your product goes into production. Another important consideration? Your product's hardware. Thinking through every component now will help ensure that you get your product to market on time.
Thinking Through Thermoforming Hardware Considerations
If you're looking for a
thermoforming company to develop and manufacture your part to meet your exact specifications and expectations, then it's critical that you and your team carefully think through the ins and outs of your part's hardware.
After all, having the product look great isn't enough if the product doesn't function properly from a physical standpoint (think product doors that don't open properly or structural aspects that make accessing the internal components a challenge).
Hardware Considerations: Things to Keep in Mind
Here are examples of the types of design attachment detail questions that you and your team should be asking:
- Does the product have to hinge open? Lock? Have specific access requirements?
- How will our product(s) attach to the inner framework chassis?
- How will the structure be laid out in the design detail?
- How will your bezel front attach to the metal frame?
Insert specifications and boss design are also critical elements needed for
successfully manufacturing your plastic enclosure. Here are other questions to ask:
- How will it attach to the chassis?
- How best to attach the exterior plastic to the frame?
- How do I streamline the attachment hardware when handling multiple components?
For more on hardware considerations,
download our free Thermoforming Design Guide and check out sections 4.0 through 4.4, where you'll find charts for:
- short inserts
- regular inserts
- flanged inserts
- boss design for flanged inserts
- information on captive screws
Remember, it's helpful to choose a thermoforming company that works with you through every stage of the process, from product design and hardware consideration to custom processes, like
EMI shielding
and
painting.
With over 30 years of experience, ThermoFab knows what's required to take your design files and transform them into a product that your clients want to buy.
Contact us today to learn how we can help make that happen.
Case in Point: Hardware Done Right
When 454 Life Sciences came to us, it already had a complete design in place for its Genome Sequencer System (TM) but needed to have it manufactured. Hardware considerations included hinging options for front access panels, pistons for internal components, soft touch access latches for door panels, a mounting layout for a computer monitor, and a custom lightpipe for the green "on light" display.
Read the full customer story here (link opens a PDF). Then browse through our complete list of
thermoforming case studies here.