I only want to make one prototype, but I can't find anyone to consult with.
In a consultation regarding product development, we received a request to process just a few metal parts for prototype use.
They said that most of the factories they contacted refused, citing the small quantity. It seemed that if there was no prospect of mass production, they wouldn't even listen to them.
Factories designed for mass production tend to be reluctant to accept small-batch processing orders.
We were unable to find a supplier for processing that was solely for prototyping or small-batch production, which prevented us from moving on to the next stage of the process.
Even if the design itself is finalized, we can't confirm the shape and dimensions without having several prototypes made. The development schedule was moving forward without any prototypes being produced.
Setup and tool preparation occur regardless of the quantity.
Metalworking involves setting up the material in the machine and preparing the tools to be used for processing. This process is almost the same whether you are making one item or 100 items.
The time and cost spent on preparation become more per unit as the quantity increases. When the quantity is small, the processing cost per unit tends to be higher.
Factories with equipment and systems designed for mass production are structured to be profitable only when they can meet large production lots. Small-lot orders don't fit into this system and are therefore more likely to be refused.
We will review the processing details, precision, quantity, and delivery date together.
When considering suppliers for small-batch orders, we make our decision based on a combination of several factors.
- Required dimensional accuracy and surface finish
- Which processing method is most suitable, such as cutting, sheet metal work, or casting?
- Is it a prototype, or is it a small-scale production run of only a few dozen units?
- How much leeway is there before the deadline?
Even within the same metalworking field, the areas of expertise and processing methods vary from factory to factory. The process involves first clarifying the requirements, and then searching for a suitable technician.
We connect engineers who meet the requirements for each project.
Instead of having large processing facilities in-house, we explored ways to connect with engineers at local factories who meet the specific requirements for each project.
We understand the expertise of each technician, such as those specializing in machining or sheet metal fabrication, and combine them according to the client's needs. By including technicians who can handle even small-lot prototypes, we are able to respond to small-batch orders.
The idea of maintaining connections from the prototyping stage is not limited to metalworking.
The idea of having connections not only with suppliers who handle mass production, but also with engineers who can handle small-scale prototypes from the outset, applies to other processing techniques such as resin molding and surface treatment.
Having someone to consult with in the early stages of product development allows you to proceed while checking the actual product before finalizing the design. It also makes it easier to move forward even before deciding whether to proceed with mass production.
We handle everything from design consultations to selecting manufacturing partners.
MACHICOCO is a company based in Higashi-Osaka. It does not own large-scale facilities and instead collaborates with engineers at local factories to develop its products.
Regarding metal processing, we handle everything from design consultations and prototyping selection to the selection of processing partners for small-batch production.
Even when we move to the stage of considering mass production, we'll work with you to find a factory that's suitable for that scale. We're a company that doesn't stop at development and manufacturing, but works with you all the way through to sales.
First, please send us the actual item and its dimensions.
When you contact us for advice, please send us the following information to help us get started.
- Hand-drawn diagrams and sketches
- Reference photos
- Approximate dimensions
- How to use and where to use
- Desired quantity
- Prototypes and actual products
Drawings are not required. Even if the processing method hasn't been decided yet, we can consider the manufacturing method while looking at drawings or actual samples.
