Questions & Answers

Is this a prototype process?

Not a very good one; our business model is based on repeat production (low volume production is fine) and your prototype should simulate your production process or you learn nothing about your manufacturing issues.

But can I use it to prototype my product anyway?

Yes, you can, but the form, fit and function of your production product will not be the same - so there’s not a lot of value in using the Tool-Less process to prototype if your production process is different.

Is this an interim process before I go to injection molding?

Yes, it can be used for that purpose if you can live with the differences listed above. It is especially appropriate if the design is not stable and you need market or customer feedback and multiple redesign’s prior to your production. We regularly produce 500 units, make changes, build 500 more, make more changes and build another 500 before our customer releases tooling.

How durable are Tool-Less products?

We can design a pretty durable product - probably not as durable as an equivalent injection molded product though. The weight of the product, drop requirements, whether the product has to survive with no damage, or without creating a danger - these affect our design direction and feasibility. We use thicker materials, add doublers in corners and other design details to create a more durable product.

Can I get it in my colour?

Yes, you can, there may be a minimum required for custom colours, but we can match any colour.

Can you hide your joint lines?

No, we cannot. We use the joint lines as an aesthetic feature and we can control where they fall on the part to maintain the best aesthetics. Our design team is very good at using these features to your benefit.