A new machine or device needs a sequence of decisions supported by evidence. These eight stages provide a practical discussion structure; projects may repeat, overlap or combine stages when the technical uncertainty demands it.
The development stagesDefine the decision to be made, the information required and the person who accepts the result. Early work may establish whether a principle is practical; later work checks the selected configuration, manufacturing route and agreed operating requirement.
Feasibility, engineering, prototype manufacture and subsequent production can be quoted separately. Record review points, responsibilities, revisions and what is outside the current stage. An early proof of function does not automatically establish durability or readiness for sale.
Begin with a non-confidential requirement. An NDA can be agreed before detailed sharing. Drawing deliverables, manufacturing rights and permitted use require project-specific contractual terms. A changed requirement should identify which earlier decisions need another review.
Define a new machine or device project with intended users, input and output, constraints, measurable requirements, stakeholders and the first work package.
Read the guide: Requirements and the product development briefScope a feasibility study around technical unknowns, operating principles, component availability, early trials and a documented next-stage decision.
Read the guide: Feasibility research for a new machine or deviceDevelop a machine or device concept with operation sequence, mechanical layout, component interfaces, access, alternatives and a clear concept review.
Read the guide: Concept development and preliminary machine layoutPrepare a mechanical machine or device design around assemblies, purchased components, functional tolerances, manufacturing routes and controlled review inputs.
Read the guide: Detailed mechanical design and interface developmentScope a working prototype by the function it must demonstrate, component route, assembly needs, representative samples and planned review evidence.
Read the guide: Prototype manufacture and first assemblyPlan machine and device trials with defined configuration, samples, operating conditions, acceptance criteria, observations and a controlled revision decision.
Read the guide: Prototype testing, verification and validationPrepare a developed machine or device for manufacture through material, process, tolerance, assembly, sourcing, inspection and documentation reviews.
Read the guide: Design for manufacture and production preparationPlan an initial repeat build with released configuration, supplier responsibilities, inspection records, acceptance, delivery and agreed documentation.
Read the guide: Pilot production, acceptance and project handoverThese notes support an initial engineering discussion. Material grades, manufacturing routes, dimensions and acceptance criteria are selected for the actual application and confirmed in the project specification.
A short description, sketch or process video is enough to start the conversation.
