Representative Mounting & Loading
Functional CNC Prototypes
Custom CNC prototypes manufactured for defined mechanical trials, including representative mounting, loading and dimensional requirements.
- Process
- CNC prototype for an agreed functional trial
- Materials
- Grade and condition relevant to the test
- Quantity
- Trial sample quantity per setup
- Inspection
- Applied load, measurement point and deflection limit
Product Overview
Functional prototypes are used to assess how a component behaves under conditions relevant to its intended application. Compared with a purely visual model, a functional sample may require more specific material, dimensional and surface characteristics. GPT Precision manufactures custom CNC prototype parts according to the approved requirements for the intended evaluation.
Key Features
- Consider a machined mounting arm designed to support a mechanical load.
- The arm's behavior depends on its geometry, material condition, mounting arrangement and the direction and magnitude of the applied force.
- A trial using an unrepresentative fixture may produce results that do not reflect the intended application.
Manufacturing Considerations
- The prototype drawing should identify dimensions, material condition and surface requirements that influence the evaluation.
- If the sample differs from the intended production configuration, document those differences when interpreting the results.
- Functional testing services and responsibilities are confirmed separately for each project.
Quality Control & Inspection
- Before functional evaluation, establish the load case, application point, load direction, measurement position and allowable deflection.
- Where multiple mounting arrangements are possible, identify the configurations relevant to the intended use.
- The test should reproduce the agreed support conditions as closely as necessary for its purpose.
Specifications to Confirm
| Load case | Confirm the load magnitude, direction and point of application. |
|---|---|
| Measurement | Specify where deflection is measured and the allowable value at the agreed load. |
| Test scope | Confirm the test responsibilities and record any difference from the intended configuration. |
Assembly Considerations
Mounting restraint
Reproduce the supports and restraints that influence the response.
Test configurations
Identify the relevant mounting configurations before comparing results.
Related Products
Request a Functional Prototype Quote
Send your drawing, material specification, quantities and intended evaluation requirements. Include the critical mounting and loading conditions that influence the prototype design.
