EngineeringPals® Consulting

Prototyping & Machine Design

From early concepts to working hardware: we design, prototype, and de-risk mechanical systems so you can move from idea to demonstrator with confidence and pace.

We support startups, research groups, and manufacturers building machines, fixtures, rigs, and product prototypes. Our approach is deliberately pragmatic: clear requirements, defensible assumptions, and designs that can be manufactured, assembled, tested, and iterated.

Typical engagement 1–10 weeks (scope dependent) Focus DFM, risk reduction, clear documentation Delivery mode Remote + on-site support (as needed) Commercial Projects from £3.5k (scope dependent)

Choose how you’d like to continue.

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WHY ENGINEERINGPALS

Buildable designs — we design for manufacture, assembly, service, and iteration—not just screen-accurate CAD.
Risk-led engineering — we identify the dominant failure modes early (stiffness, stability, wear, thermal, safety) and de-risk them.
Systems thinking — we consider interfaces: fixtures, sensors, controls, operators, and the environment the machine must survive.
Clear handover — drawings, BOMs, tolerances, and build notes that others can actually use.

PROTOTYPING & MACHINE DESIGN CAPABILITIES

We support prototypes and bespoke machines across industries. Open the items below to confirm scope. If your project spans concept-to-build, we can cover the full chain or plug into a specific phase.

Requirements, concept development and feasibility

Mechanical design and CAD (parts, mechanisms, frames)

Design for manufacture, cost and supplier readiness

Prototype build support and integration

Fixtures, test rigs, and experimental hardware

Mechatronics interfaces (sensors, actuators, controls boundary)

Verification planning, risk reviews, and safety thinking

DESIGN, BUILD & ITERATE — WITH EVIDENCE

Prototyping is only valuable when it reduces uncertainty. We define what must be proven, what can be assumed, and what must be measured—so each iteration produces decision-grade evidence.

Define the verification questions (and what “success” means)

Engineering checks that match the risk (not over-analysis)

Instrumentation and measurement that you can trust

Build feedback loops: issues, fixes, and controlled iteration

Documentation that supports transfer and scale-up

INPUTS & HANDOVER

Send what you have. If information is missing, we’ll propose a minimal assumption set for approval. We keep scope and change control explicit so delivery remains predictable.

Goal and use-case: what the prototype/machine must do, and how it will be operated.
Constraints: loads, speeds, environments, size/weight limits, power/air, safety constraints.
Interfaces: what it connects to (fixtures, samples, operators, upstream/downstream equipment).
Performance targets: accuracy, repeatability, throughput, duty cycle, noise/vibration limits (as relevant).
Existing assets: sketches, CAD, photos, prior prototypes, supplier drawings, BOMs, or test data.
Preferred tools: CAD package/format, drawing standards, part numbering, revision control (if any).
Timeline and budget: key milestones, demo dates, procurement lead-times, constraints on suppliers.
Handover: CAD + drawing pack + BOM + build notes (agreed format).

TYPICAL OUTCOMES

The objective is to produce working hardware and reduce uncertainty—fast.

Working prototype — a demonstrator that proves the critical function.
Reduced risk — dominant failure modes identified and addressed early.
Buildable documentation — drawings, tolerances, and BOMs suitable for suppliers.
Clear next steps — an iteration plan aligned to performance targets and cost.

DELIVERABLES

Outputs tailored to your stage—concept, prototype, or production-intent hardware.

Concept pack — options, trade-offs, assumptions, and a recommended architecture.
Design pack — CAD assemblies, key drawings, tolerances/finishes, and interface definitions.
Supplier pack — RFQ-ready drawings, costed BOM, procurement notes, and lead-time risks.
Build & test pack — assembly sequence, checklists, instrumentation notes, and verification plan.

How We Work

We run prototyping like an engineering programme: requirements, assumptions, risks, and decision checkpoints are explicit. Delivery is phased so you see progress early and can steer direction without chaos.

Intro call (free, 30 min) — confirm the objective, constraints, interfaces, and success criteria.
Scope confirmation (included) — within 2 business days: deliverables, inputs, assumptions/exclusions, timeline, fixed price, and change control.
Concept & architecture — options, trade-offs, and a route to prototype (including risks and lead-times).
Design & detailing — CAD, interfaces, tolerances, and DFM. Regular checkpoints to avoid late surprises.
Procure & integrate — supplier packs, procurement support, and integration guidance (remote or on-site).
Verify & iterate — test plan, data capture, issues log, and an iteration roadmap.

FAQs

Short answers to common questions before a prototyping engagement starts.

Do you build prototypes, or only design?

Can you work with our preferred CAD and drawing standards?

Are you limited to plastics and composites?

Can you help source parts and manage suppliers?

How do you handle IP and confidentiality?

What does “projects from £3.5k” typically include?

Can you work to a fixed deadline (demo day / investor meeting)?

GET IN TOUCH

Get in Touch.

Choose a quick note or share full project details—we’ll respond by email.

Quick contact — a short description of what you’re building and what you need the prototype to prove.

Scope a project — requirements, constraints, interfaces, deadlines, and success criteria.

Quick contact Scope a project