The plastics industry is a dynamic innovation space that produces new, ground-breaking products every day. But how do these innovations come about and how does a simple idea become a marketable product? In this article, we show the typical development process in the plastics industry – from initial inspiration to successful market launch.
The idea: the beginning of every innovation
Every innovative product starts with an idea, which can come about in different ways – be it by improving an existing product or by creating a completely new solution to a previously unsolved problem.
This is the creative core of the development process. The best ideas often arise in interdisciplinary teams that look at a challenge from different perspectives and thus develop new approaches.
Concept development: from idea to plan
After brainstorming, the next step is concept development. In this second phase, the concept is fleshed out, resulting in sketches, technical drawings and detailed descriptions of the requirements for the product. Both functional and aesthetic aspects play a role here. The objectives of the project are also clearly defined so that the further development process can be approached in a structured manner.
The feasibility study: reality meets vision
A feasibility study is an essential step in the development process. It helps to assess the feasibility of the project on an economic and technical level.
Factors such as material properties, production processes and costs are taken into account. This analysis ensures that the vision of the project is actually feasible and that unexpected hurdles can be prevented later on.
Material selection and testing: choosing the right plastic
Selecting the right plastic is crucial to the success of a project. In this phase, thorough tests are carried out to determine which plastic has the required properties, such as strength, flexibility or temperature resistance. Various materials and plastics are put through their paces in order to make the best possible choice for the specific application.
Design and development: optimization of the product
In this phase, the design of the product is further refined. Engineers and designers work together on an interdisciplinary basis to develop a product that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This is where findings from material selection and concept development come together to optimize the product and prepare it for prototype production.
Prototype production: initial practical tests under real conditions
The production of a prototype is the next step in the process. This is where the product is tested in physical form for the first time. The prototype makes it possible to test the design under real conditions and uncover potential weaknesses. This test phase is crucial for making final adjustments before the product goes into production.
Validation and testing: quality assurance at the highest level
Before a product is released for mass production, it undergoes a series of extensive tests. These validations include, for example, mechanical tests, ageing tests and environmental compatibility tests, as well as other relevant tests.
The aim is to ensure that the product meets all requirements and quality standards. This step guarantees that the product functions reliably under real conditions and that no unexpected problems occur.
Production: the step towards mass production
After successful validation, the product is prepared for mass production. This means that production lines need to be set up, materials procured and staff trained. This is where efficiency and accuracy come into play to ensure that the product can be manufactured in large quantities and with consistent quality.
The market launch: the product reaches consumers
As soon as production is in full swing, it is time for the market launch. Marketing strategies are developed to make the product known to the target group. Market analyses and target group research and definition play an important role here in order to successfully position the product and emphasize its benefits over the competition.
Continuous improvement: product innovation is never finished
The development process does not end with the market launch. Customer feedback is continuously collected in order to further improve the product. The plastics industry thrives on continuous innovation and the development of new and better solutions. It is an ongoing process. In this way, companies remain competitive and contribute to the continuous improvement of product solutions.
Conclusion
Innovations in the plastics industry are the result of close cooperation between creativity, technical expertise and market-oriented thinking. This structured development process results in innovative products that not only meet the requirements of the market, but also bring real improvements and added value for different problem solutions.
At MEDIAN, we support you every step of the way – from the initial idea to the successful market launch. Let’s work together to develop your innovative solutions that will shape the future of the plastics industry!