When it comes to hardware development, there are many intricacies and demands that need to be satisfied. One critical stage of this process is the shift from the prototype phase to pilot production, with hardware reviews playing a fundamental role in this transition.
Whether you’re reading this as an individual or an organisation overseeing the design of a new Internet of Things (IoT) device, an electric vehicle component, or a bespoke audio system, it will be essential to ensure that rigorous testing is carried out and thorough documentation prepared.
A particular focus of this article will be on the importance of “showing your workings” in hardware reviews and how you can accomplish this. So, let’s begin.
The Journey from Prototype to Pilot
Let’s be clear about what we mean when we refer to these respective start and end stages:
- A prototype is a proof of concept (POC), often put together for the purpose of testing an idea. While this is the stage where creativity meets practicality, the product is still typically a long way from being ready for market.
- The pilot phase, meanwhile, is the stage at which designs are refined, components are subjected to stress testing, and production processes are validated.
How Does a Hardware Review Fit into This Transition?
A hardware review can be defined as a formal evaluation of a hardware design. It is typically conducted at key stages of the hardware development process, such as the transition from prototype to pilot production, or prior to full-scale manufacturing.
During the phase that we’re focusing on in this article, a hardware review isn’t just about checking whether the given device works; it entails scrutiny of every component, circuit, and design choice.
Why Is It Important To ‘Show Workings’ for Hardware Reviews?
Much like how a maths teacher demands to see the steps to a solution, the various stakeholders in the hardware development process – such as investors, regulators, and/or manufacturers – will expect a clear audit trail of how decisions were reached, why specific components were chosen, and how the system fares under real-world conditions.
Some of the reasons for “showing workings” being critically important when it comes to hardware reviews include:
The Role of Transparency in Building Trust
Consider, for instance, the UK market, where stringent regulatory standards exist with regard to CE marking and UKCA compliance. Standards like these mean it is crucial to be able to demonstrate how a particular product adheres to safety and performance criteria.
When efforts are made to compile detailed documentation of component choices, such as capacitor values or resistor tolerances, regulators and clients can be assured of the robustness of the design.
Debugging And Iteration
If, during stress testing, a prototype fails – such as if a capacitor overheats or a circuit oscillates unexpectedly – it can be easier to pinpoint the source of the given issue if in-depth records already exist setting out the calculations and design choices made.
For example, something as relatively “simple” as a miscalculated capacitance value can lead to such consequences as signal distortion in an audio circuit or power instability in a renewable energy system.
Scalability For Production
Pilot production often entails sourcing components at scale, with variations potentially being introduced as a result.
When you have made the effort to show your workings in your documentation, this will help manufacturers to better understand the tolerances and specifications required. This, in turn, will help minimise the risk of expensive errors.
What Are Some of The Best Practices for Hardware Reviews?
To help ensure the most robust hardware reviews for your projects during the prototype-to-pilot transition, consider these tips:
Document Everything
Tools like LTspice and KiCad allow for circuits to be simulated, and results to be stored alongside component calculations. By including screenshots or logs from conversion tools, you will be able to show stakeholders how values were derived.
Standardise Units
Agreeing across your team that one consistent unit – for example, nanofarads – will be used will enable you to avoid confusion, particularly in your work with international partners.
Leverage Automation
You will be able to save time and reduce errors when you make use of reputable online tools for performing quick calculations and conversions. One example of such a calculator is the capacitor value conversion tool on the website of electrical components supplier RS.
Showing Your Workings Is the Backbone of a Well-Optimised Review Process
The transition from prototype to pilot is a pivotal moment in hardware development. So, you cannot underestimate the importance of getting every aspect of this transition right – including the hardware review process.
By embracing transparency, making the most of relevant digital tools, and documenting every step, engineers – like those who make up your own team – can be better placed to navigate the challenges and complexities of hardware reviews.
