How to shorten the cycle time from silicone product sampling to mass production? Suggestions from drawing optimization to process validation

Shorten the cycle time from prototype to mass production: the key is "less rework, less change".

Many projects are slow, not because the factory is slow to do the work, but because of repeated revisions during the mold opening, proofing, and confirmation phases. Here's a set of executable methods for you to help compress the cycle down.

1) Make the need clear once (avoid double checking)

It is recommended that this be provided as a one-off at the enquiry/proofing stage:

  • 3D + 2D drawings
  • Critical dimensions and tolerances (CTQ)
  • Operating environment: temperature, medium, outdoor or not
  • Performance objectives: sealing/resilience/abrasion resistance/flame retardancy (as required)
  • Appearance requirements: color, permissible range of parting line, height of burrs
  • Projected usage and target delivery time

2）Do DFM (manufacturability review) before molding.

DFM can detect it in advance:

  • Insufficient slanting of the extracted mold
  • Thin edges/sharp corners/deep cavities lead to risk of glue shortage and tearing
  • Parting line location affects appearance or sealing
  • Under or over compression of grooves

3) Proofing should be done "with acceptance criteria".

Proof acceptance recommendations are included at a minimum:

  • Measurement of critical dimensions (specify gauges and methods)
  • Assembly verification (assembly force, scratching, positioning)
  • Functional verification (waterproofing/airtightness/resilience, etc.)
  • Appearance confirmation (burrs, parting lines, color difference)

4) Replacing "direct mass production" with "small batch pilot production"

The value of small pilot production:

  • Verify yield and appearance consistency
  • Locked process parameters
  • Identify hidden problems with assembly beats

5) Putting change management in place

Any changes may reset the cycle:

  • Change of dimensions, tolerances
  • Change of material/hardness
  • Change of color or surface process

Recommendation: Minimize changes after confirmation, and record version number and reason for necessary changes.

6) Create reusable information packages

Solidify these few pieces of information and subsequent projects will go faster and faster:

  • Requirement templates
  • DFM checklist
  • Proofing acceptance checklist
  • Small batch pilot production validation checklist

Shopping Cart