The Practice
The work we are hired to do.
A new product, or one that already exists.
We partner with you to turn complex challenges into products that work in the real world.
A new product. From the first idea to a product a factory can build. myfo researches the need, designs the form, engineers it, proves it with prototypes, and stays through the first production run.
An existing product. The product already exists and needs to be better. Clearer to use, simpler to make, lower in cost, or ready for a new market. myfo studies the current product, redesigns what is failing, proves the change, and supports the return to production.
Industrial design, design engineering and production engineering work as one team. A client can start at the idea, or bring a product that is already on the market.
Industrial Design
Introduction & Design Brief Identify and clearly define the problem or opportunity. Understand the needs, goals, and constraints of the project.
Research And Trends What people need, what is already sold, and which materials and finishes are current.
Ergonomics And Human Factors How the product is held, read and used.
Design Concepts Several directions, then one to develop.
Prototyping And Validation A model checked against the brief before engineering starts.
Product Visualisation Images of the product for review and for the market.
Detailed Modelling The chosen concept is developed into a precise 3D CAD model with accurate geometry, structure and internal details.
Design for Manufacturability & Assembly The design is refined so it can be manufactured and assembled efficiently, reliably and at the right cost.
Parts, Fits and Tolerances All parts, interfaces, fits and critical tolerances are fully defined and resolved.
Materials and Making Methods Final materials and the most suitable manufacturing processes are selected.
Risk Analysis (DFMEA) Potential failure modes are identified and addressed before the design is frozen.
Drawings and Specification Complete drawings and a technical specification are issued so a prototype, then a factory, can build the same product correctly.
Form Models Refined physical models based on the final engineering design to evaluate appearance, proportions, surface finish and ergonomics.
Functional Prototypes Working prototypes used to test mechanisms, performance, assembly and real-world function.
Engineering Validation & Testing Prototypes are tested for strength, durability, fit, safety and reliability.
Pre-Production Samples Samples made in the intended materials and processes are thoroughly tested before tooling is committed.
Off-Tool Samples First parts from production tooling are inspected and tested to confirm readiness for volume manufacturing.
Tooling, Moulds, Jigs & Fixtures We design the required production tooling, moulds, jigs and fixtures, and coordinate with suppliers for their manufacture and setup.
First Factory Run Hands-on support during the initial production run to resolve issues quickly and ensure a smooth start.
Assembly & Line Setup Definition of the assembly method, line layout and automation where volume requires it.
Quality Inspection Clear inspection standards so that every part leaving the line matches the approved design.
Production Support Ongoing technical support during early production to optimise processes and stabilise quality.
Product Documentation Technical writing, illustrated instruction manuals and user guides.
Product Packaging Design of retail and protective packaging that supports the product and brand.
Intellectual Property Support Assistance with design registration and patent documentation when required.
UX/UI Design Product interface design for physical products, web apps and mobile apps.