Engineering resources / 01
Before we build.
A useful brief starts with the application. Bring what you know; leave open questions for the engineering review.
Describe the job.
- What does the part do, and what does it connect to?
- What is the load, in which direction, and for how long?
- List operating temperatures, chemicals, moisture and any repeated cycles.
- Explain what is driving the change: geometry, weight, wear, cost or availability.
Prepare the geometry.
- Share STEP or IGES for design review, or STL / 3MF for an existing mesh.
- Specify the units, part revision, quantity and the mating assembly where relevant.
- Include a PDF drawing with datums, critical dimensions and required fits.
- Mark surfaces that need special finishing or must remain free of supports.
Specify the material carefully.
- Identify the exact grade if it is mandatory. Otherwise, describe the performance required.
- Separate supplier resin data from the evidence needed for a finished printed part.
- Discuss build direction, conditioning and any post-processing requirements.
- Flag application-specific material and traceability requirements early.
Agree on how success will be checked.
- Which dimensions or features are critical to the assembly?
- What inspection method, sampling and documentation are required?
- Define acceptance criteria, and how any deviations should be handled.
- Identify the functional tests needed before the part is used in its application.
Set up the next step.
- Provide the target delivery date and expected future quantities.
- Ask about an NDA before sending files that require one.
- Confirm manufacturing scope, any partner involvement, and required documentation in the quotation.
- Keep a clear record of the agreed drawing revision and specifications.