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Concept Development

From problem statement to proof of concept. We develop products, systems or services from a white sheet of paper to a working prototype. Concept development requires a mindset that enables thinking out-of-the-box, but also to use solutions that just work. The objective is not to reinvent the wheel for everyting, but if we have to, we do.

Concept creation, evaluation and selection of a motorcycle front suspension. The best scoring concept will be worked on to the next concept phase. 

Shifter concept for a high performance sports car. The requirement was a lighter, stiffer operation, easier to install and improved ergonimics. 

Optimised motorcycle swingarm with novel, compact spring damper kinematic mechanism. The goal was a lightweight single sided swingarm with a suspension setup that creates space for a battery pack. 

Concept Development Phases

Ideation

Ideation is not only coming with solutions for certain problems, but more even so defining the problems, needs and desires of customers or industries. From there on

Brainstorms, benchmarks and workshops are ideal tools to get to the problem statement, and to get to the ideas for solutions. 

Concept Validation

Quick validation of principles and designs is essential to ensure we stay on the right track. We frequently use 3D printing, foam, wood or even  cardboard to quickly evaluate the concepts we are working on.

Engineering

Every valuable concept is engineered taking into account, performance criteria, manufacturing constraints and material characteristics. 

3D CAD and FEA software are tools that helps us early in the validation of concepts.

Proof of Concept (PoC)

Proof of Concept (POC or Proof of Principle, PoC) is the demonstration that a method or idea works. It is used to verifying that some concept or theory has practical potential. A proof of concept is usually small and may or may not be complete.

Life Cycle Analysis (LCA)

Life Cycle Analysis can be performed early on to guide in the concept selection process. It will influence the decision on material, process and manufacturing location. 

Cost analysis

Concepts and Proof of Concept prototypes give early indications of required investments, tooling and production technology. Can it be manufactured, with what kind of material and process and what will be the estimated cost.