Quote:
Originally Posted by Josh69
Awesome advice everyone, and thanks to all who have shared, it has given me both more motivation, and a good idea where to focus my energy.
The product is not going to be sold to any major manufacturer's, and it's not for automotive use. It is for recreational vehicles, such as scooters, ATV's, snowmobiles etc. It is for consumer use.
Fortunately, I was able to flesh out my idea with Chad, aka ccracin over the phone and we realized quickly that I would be better off trying to utilize an existing product and modifying it for my application. It was actually my first idea weeks ago, but I dismissed it early on because I felt that it wasn't distinct enough and it's limitations where too easily exploited. However, after talking with Chad we both agreed it was the best route, and could be packaged for my purpose. While the over the shelf mechanism does limit my total market due to size availability, it does address exactly the market I need. It will allow me to focus on the segment I am most interested in, and leave room for growth.
I am very excited, because I can develop a working prototype within hours. I've already got the mechanism and with mild modification it works. I am going to begin creating my rough prototype for testing, and once I have a working unit, I can talk to some lawyers and have some 3D CAD drawings made.
Amazingly, there is a company I drive past daily that specializes in low volume production, and rapid prototyping called Protomold. They have reasonable prices from what I'm seeing. Combine the plastic housing I design with the modified mechanism available over the shelf, and bingo.  |
It was a pleasure talking to you Josh. I really think you are on the right track. As I said, keep in touch. I am happy to help.
To All,
I can tell you Josh has a really good idea of what he is looking for and is grounded in what to expect. There are a couple ways he can go and through some experimenting I'm sure he will find the right path. His product can be developed and prototyped very reasonably. I encouraged him to do as much as he can on his own and inexpensively. There are a lot of people ready to take money when it is not necessary. The advice from members of this community is invaluable. Hopefully he will keep us all posted on his progress. I agree with him that there is a place for his product! I would use it!
