PLP Embraces Accelerated Product Development

Time to market is a key success factor for firms involved in technology based business to business marketing. The foundation for speedy time to market is already in place within the Engineering Department at PLP with the recent upgrade of CAD hardware. A move to Pro E Wildfire is also planned for the next quarter. The integration of the CAD system with the CAM system, which in turn is linked to the NC machining centre, was a further step in this important direction.

PLP is using rapid prototyping of new products on a regular basis with an ultimate intention of being able to turn a finished concept into a model within one week. Rapid prototypes, made from soft tooling, can ultimately have the same mechanical strength and functionality as full production models but be available in a fraction of the time.

Beyond rapid prototyping is the emerging science of virtual prototypes, in which the CAD model is turned into a computer based prototype which can be mechanically tested in a virtual world. This is a current reality for companies involved in the higher end of the automotive industry but PLP aims to be in that same arena within the next year to 18 months for its range of mechanically engineered products.

PLP’s Engineering Department is committed to generating creative and innovative solutions to customer’s problems in a timely manner.