Platform Extension
Platform Extension is a process that provides cosmetic surface re-design of a product while maintaining existing core geometry and assembly components - (see also:Industrial Design). This eliminates unnecessary and costly design time when only cosmetic changes are desired. By providing an alternate 3D CAD model that designers can quickly modify, product appearance can be fresh and in line with market trends without the high cost of starting over.
Why is it useful?
Platform extension quickly and accurately bridges the gap between current product designs and next generation products. Maximum benefit is achieved by re-using major assembly components and in many cases some of the existing production tooling. The "re-fresh" process is a cost effective short cycle time means of extending a product line or bridging a product line gap.
Are there any limitations?
Top down CAD design models are the best starting point for platform extension. With an existing model, Industrial Design concepts can be quickly integrated into the existing assembly. If a parametric model does not exist, one will need to be reverse engineered from physical parts and 2D drawings (if available) - (see also:Reverse Engineering).
What Kinds of Products can Benefit?
Typical products include those in Consumer Electronics, Recreational, Automotive, Aerospace, Defense, and Medical applications.
How are business goals affected?
Re-fresh provides a quick and cost effective opportunity to extend the service life of an existing product line. Additionally, the return on investment is increased by the re-use of core components and tooling. Re-fresh products can also provide a revenue generating buffer for next generation product launch.
The Technology Behind the Process:
- Industrial Design objectives are discussed.
- Industrial Design concepts are developed and presented.
- The Design concept is chosen by the customer and used as a starting point for developing a new CAD model.
- The existing core components are incorporated into the new design.
- Prototype Presentation models are made for design confirmation.