What is Design Department, Inc.'s primary focus?

While we have broad expertise in product development, our primary focus is on medical technology and device prototyping. We leverage our strong background in mechanical and electromechanical design to bring innovative healthcare solutions to life. We also serve clients in other industries, such as automotive, using the same principles of precision and quality.

Where are you located and do you work with clients nationwide?

We are based in Franklin, Wisconsin, but we work with companies across the entire United States. Our collaborative process and project management tools ensure seamless communication and successful project delivery, no matter your location.

What makes Design Department, Inc. different from other design firms?

Our key differentiators are our deep expertise in mechanical engineering for medical products, our commitment to efficiency, and our hands-on approach. We don't just create concepts; we deliver robust, functional prototypes designed to be viable for production. Our history of building long-term client relationships and our ability to troubleshoot complex design challenges set us apart.

Project & Process Questions

How does the project development process work?

Our process typically begins with a discovery and conceptualization phase, where we define the project scope and requirements. This is followed by detailed CAD design and engineering, where we meticulously map out the product. The final phase involves building and testing functional prototypes to validate the design before it moves to production.

What is the first step to starting a project with you?

The best way to begin is to schedule a free initial consultation with our team. We encourage you to come prepared with any preliminary information you have, such as a product idea, functional requirements, or a project budget. This helps us understand your needs and determine the best path forward.

Do you offer a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect my idea?

Yes, absolutely. We take client confidentiality and intellectual property very seriously. We are happy to sign an NDA before you share any proprietary or sensitive information with us.

Medical Technology & Compliance Questions

What types of medical devices do you have experience designing?

Our experience spans a wide range of medical devices, from surgical instruments and diagnostic equipment to electromechanical devices and consumer health products. We are well-versed in the unique requirements of the medical technology industry.

How do you ensure the final product is manufacturable?

Our prototypes are grounded in mechanical engineering principles from the start. We focus on designing products that are not only functional but also practical for mass production. This "design for manufacturing" approach minimizes costly retooling and ensures a smoother transition from prototype to the production line.

What CAD software do you use?

Our designers take ownership of their work and concepts, ensuring your medical product's appearance and functionality go hand-in-hand. We expertly map out product designs using industry-leading programs like Pro-Engineer and SolidWorks. Our team is highly trained and uses these tools with a critical eye on all details.

What is the purpose of your prototypes?

Our robust medical prototypes are more than just models; they are brought to the "proof of concept" stage as functioning samples. They allow for rigorous testing, concept improvements, examination of durability, and assessment of all critical aspects specific to medical devices (e.g., battery life, product variables, overall performance, biocompatibility).