The Customer Isn’t Always Right. Achieving Customer Satisfaction Through Effective Project Management

Project management isn’t just about staying organized—it’s about ensuring every part of the process runs smoothly. It helps different teams work together and prioritizes adaptability. With being a good project manager, this also means sometimes telling the customer things they don’t want to hear. Their design is flawed, the costs outweigh the benefits, or simply that their idea isn’t unique. You can’t just be a people pleaser. Having the skills to be a great project manager leads to great products – ones that arrive on time, meet customer expectations, and help businesses grow.

The Role of Project Management in Product Development

70% of organizations have had a project failure in the last 12 months. However, many failures could have been avoided with better project management. Project management lays out goals and tracks progress through the product development process. Project managers are involved at all stages of the project life cycle, keeping efforts organized, efficient, and on budget.

Ideation, Concept, and Planning

The first step in product development is ideation. Ideation involves brainstorming ideas and concepts for a product. During this stage, the project manager establishes goals for the product development process.

As concepts are developed, so are prototypes. As digital and physical testing begins, designers continue brainstorming ways to improve the product’s functionality and eliminate potential problems.

At this stage, the project manager will also create a project plan. The plan outlines the cost, schedule, scope, quality, and communications that the project will follow. The plan is not unchanging—in the event of unforeseen circumstances like supply chain delays or sudden price increases of components, it would be adjusted—but it does provide the framework needed to achieve a successful product launch.

Throughout the process, the project manager constantly communicates with stakeholders. When the originator of a product idea works with a partner to further design, develop, and manufacture a product, project managers keep them informed and ensure that all parties are aligned.

Design and Development

As the product is further developed and refined, the project manager’s job is to ensure collaboration among different teams, from designers to engineers to the supply chain. Project management tools, which will be discussed later, track progress and verify that steps are completed on time. In this stage, following the project plan to prevent scope creep and correctly manage resources is vital.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Conducting a stage of the product development cycle does not make it a thing of the past for a project. As designs are tested, developers identify areas for improvement. In addition to testing for basic functionality, products are tested to ensure they conform to customer standards and regulatory requirements. Requirements vary, products must be designed following the regulations of the countries and industries where they will be released.

Launch and Delivery

Once testing is complete and the product is ready to go to market, it’s time to tell the world about it. Identifying your target market and knowing the best ways to reach them is vital. An incredible product can fail to find market success if the people who would benefit from it don’t know it exists.

At the same time, no matter how much planning goes into a launch, last-minute changes and risks can still emerge. There could be unexpected functionality or industry-related issues, from supply chain delays to shifts in market trends or competitor activity. External factors like economic changes or unexpected world events can impact launch timing and strategy.

Ultimately, a successful launch isn’t just about preventing issues—it’s about responding to them effectively. The ability to adjust to last-minute changes while staying focused on the project’s overall goal can be the difference between a product that struggles and one that is successful.

Key Areas of Project Management

Project management aligns teams and resources to streamline the product development process. Adaptability is a vital feature of strong project management and is seen across areas such as:

• People resources manage schedules and workload, accounting for foreseen and unforeseen employee out-of-office circumstances.
• Parts/components resources ensure supplier reliability and plan for potential shortages to keep development on schedule.
• Design requirements foster coordination between engineers, designers, and stakeholders to ensure requirements are consistently followed throughout development.
• Supply chain management must have reliable suppliers, mitigate delays, and adapt to disruptions to ensure smooth production and delivery.
• Quality assurance/regulatory compliance includes quality checks, testing, and compliance with regulations to avoid recalls, legal issues, or reputational damage.

Tools and Best Practices for Effective Project Management

Project management always seeks to keep projects efficient, cost-effective, and adaptable. However, there are various methodologies companies use to achieve these goals.

• Waterfall: The waterfall methodology takes a linear approach to project management. Each product development phase leads into the next, ensuring no tasks are left undone.
• Kanban: The Kanban method originated on bulletin boards and whiteboards and involves shifting items from column to column as tasks are worked on and completed. There are now many digital Kanban programs.
• Scrum: Many teams incorporate agility into their project management methods, but scrum is built on it. The two main features of the scrum methods are the scrum and sprint. Scrums are daily meetings where team members share their progress and leaders plan each day’s goals. Sprints are periods, typically of a couple of weeks, where team members focus on completing backlog tasks. New tasks are added to the log for the next sprint, ensuring that current tasks are completed efficiently and all areas are addressed.
• Agile: Not truly a method in itself, the agile method is applied to other methods to bolster speed and flexibility. The scrum method, where tasks are broken into sprints, is based mainly on the agile framework. Other methods, such as Kanban, with its constant workflow, have agile features as well.

There are many digital project management tools available. Jira is a project management tool that offers a range of agile methodologies. From the same company as Jira, Trello is Kanban-style and can integrate with other apps, including Salesforce and Outlook. Asana is another popular project management tool due to its organization and collaboration features.

Best practices for successful project management include clear documentation, regular check-ins, and an agile workflow. Documentation and check-ins ensure that projects stay on track and that nothing slips through the cracks. If something needs to be revised, documentation can also help when reviewing processes for areas of improvement. Adaptive workflows keep projects moving through disruptions and allow for constant improvement.

Benefits of Project Management in Product Development

A good project manager helps teams stay organized, prevents delays, and keeps work moving forward. They also create an environment where new ideas can develop by ensuring everyone understands their role and how their work contributes to the overall goal. By following an adaptable plan under the guidance of the project manager, the final product is ready for launch and meets expectations.

On the other end of the process, effective project management keeps projects within scope, time, and cost restraints and mitigates risks in manufacturing and post-launch. Ultimately, project management increases customer satisfaction by delivering high-quality products without delay.

Pivot International has global teams of project managers throughout the US, Europe, and Asia who have navigated our partners through the product development process. Along with our global supply chain network and manufacturing sites, we have the network to successfully bring projects from concept to market. To learn more about how our project managers can help bring your product to market, contact us today.

The Art of Designing for Your Customer from Concept to Production

From the first sketch to the final product, the role of industrial designers is crucial in shaping user experience. Designers blend aesthetics with functionality to ensure the product isn’t just usable, but desirable. But how do designers strike that perfect balance? And what happens when you factor in cost, efficiency, and feasibility? Whether launching a new product or refining an existing one, industrial design is key to creating something that stands out in the market and delivers long-term value.

What is Industrial Design?

Industrial design is the part of product design that focuses on functionality and appearance. A strong industrial design team is vital to ensuring a product is usable, comfortable for the end user, and appeals to the eye.

Though many cross-functional teams include both engineers and industrial designers, they specialize in different parts of product development. Mechanical and electrical engineers design the technical inner workings of products, considering manufacturability and regulatory requirements. On the other hand, industrial designers focus on the holistic user experience.

The Importance of User-Centered Design

A product that works well and achieves its purpose will not be successful if it does not have a user-centered design focused on aesthetics, ergonomics, ease of use, and intuitiveness.

The most important factor of user-centered design is knowing the product’s target audience. The target demographic informs all other design considerations. For example, in the design process for a product marketed to seniors, industrial designers should consider common difficulties their audience faces. This could include using large text to accommodate poor eyesight or providing lots of descriptive materials for a better understanding. On the other hand, a product catered toward millennials and Gen Z should not require long instruction manuals for use, since generations that grew up with smartphones and computers are used to jumping right in when it comes to programs and devices.

Balancing Aesthetics with Functionality

As mentioned, aesthetics and functionality are the two main parts of industrial design. Designers must be able to strike a balance between these two factors. Functionality not only extends to whether or not a product works, but also ensures it will continue to work overtime. The Dyson vacuum cleaner is a great example of how companies can balance aesthetics with functionality. James Dyson developed a new vacuum with increased sucking power, but the selling point for many consumers was the fact that the vacuum was bagless. Since then, Dyson has put an even greater emphasis on industrial design with their sleek, unique-looking products.

Elements of Functionality

The product’s environment is an important factor in designing for functionality. Medical devices must withstand routine interactions with cleaning products, and products used outdoors must withstand harsh weather. Choosing materials resistant to factors such as chemical agents, water, and extreme temperatures that may be present is vital to producing quality products.

Enhancing Innovation in User-Centered Design

Technology becoming more advanced increases standards and expectations of the user experience (UX). Industrial designers must have the ability to blend physical and digital design capabilities. Choosing a suitable display with good responsiveness and resolution is critical, as is developing a user-friendly, intuitive interface. Even if your device has a good-looking display, an interface with a learning curve can be enough to drive consumers to a competitor. In today’s crowded market, integrating new shapes, materials, and interfaces can set your product apart from the rest.

Market Differentiation

As the market fills with new products, the demand for industrial designers is increasing. For many people, aesthetics are the deciding factor between products with similar features and price points. Being able to differentiate yourself in a way that doesn’t require customers to research your product’s capabilities is invaluable.

Industrial Design and Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming one of the top values of American consumers, with many willing to pay a premium for sustainably made products. If your product’s primary audience is involved in environmentalism, the outdoors, or Gen Z, sustainability should be a top priority so your values align with your public image.

Sustainability is achievable in electronics manufacturing by reducing waste and energy use, using sustainable materials when possible, and creating energy efficient products, which will also save consumers money in the long run.

Although user experience is the most important concern of industrial design, it is also vital that designers create products in a way that will benefit the company through cost savings, ease of production, and time to market.

Cost Efficiency

Design for manufacturing (DFM) is not limited to mechanical and electrical engineers. Industrial designers working in cross-functional teams, including supply chain, design products with components that can be sourced efficiently and save on costs without sacrificing quality. Key to this is materials selection; as discussed regarding functionality, materials must be durable and selected with their use and environmental impact in mind. Designers must remain cognizant of user comfort and aesthetics when looking for cost-effective materials. Guiding questions for materials selection include whether the material is prone to damage and, for materials that will remain functional for long periods, whether they will still look good and avoid tarnishing or other cosmetic degeneration.

When it comes to conceptualization and planning, time and money are saved through the use of a CAD software. CAD software’s features allow designers to create and test models efficiently. Potential problems are identified early, often before physical prototypes are even built. Prototypes’ ability to catch these issues before ordering a production run keeps projects economically feasible and mitigates risk.

Production Feasibility

Keep it simple. This age-old advice is fundamental to designing and producing lasting products. Overly complex designs not only create more costs and take more time through the amount of sourcing and components required; they also require more assembly and training of manufacturing staff than other products.

Eliminating unnecessary complexity also increases the reliability of products over time. Simple but effective designs leave less space for something to go wrong in the future. Having fewer parts to source, especially fewer niche parts, also reduces the risk of supply chain disruptions that could impact scheduled output from manufacturers.

Creating Optimized Products

Industrial design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about creating value and solving problems to create an enhanced product. At Pivot International, we design all our products like a puzzle, where the internal components fit together to save space and money and reduce waste, without sacrificing on aesthetics or quality.

If you’re searching for a design and manufacturing partner to help develop and produce your product, do not overlook their industrial design capabilities. This could be the vital component to the success of your product. A partner with a cross-functional team of industrial designers and supply chain experts can create an innovative, user-friendly, and cost-effective design with an efficient time-to-market. Their design experience, knowledge of suppliers, and in-place manufacturing capabilities can be the difference between stagnation and success.

Pivot International has been designing and manufacturing electronic products for over 50 years. Our teams are experienced at working with our partners to bring their products to market through design, development, supply chain management, and manufacturing services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help develop your product.

Securing Innovation: The Role of Cybersecurity in Product Design

In the Industry 4.0 era, everyone is connected to the cloud. Smartphones and smartwatches travel everywhere with us, providing a constant flow of information. Wearable fitness trackers provide easily accessible health information. Bluetooth wirelessly connects devices for easy transfer of information. However, with so much information constantly flowing, there are also possibilities for that information to fall into the wrong hands.

IoT products are susceptible to system shutdowns and cyberattacks that expose private data and information. When these attacks happen, customers lose trust in companies, harming their reputation and finances as consumers flock to competitors.

Having proper cybersecurity protections in place is essential to maintaining customers’ trust.

Types of Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is an integral part of communication system design. As IoT products become more complex, many types of protections work to prevent disruptions and attacks from happening.

Application Security

Security measures built into your product’s software are called application security. This includes authentication and authorization, which prevent other people from easily accessing your account information. I’m sure by now, everyone is inundated with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) where the user must provide at least 2 verification methods to prove they are who they say they are. More complex measures include digital locks and encryption that protect your information from hackers.

There are multiple tools available to test application security. Static application security testing, dynamic application security testing, and interactive application security testing are just some of the processes that exist to test the strength of application security systems.

Cloud Security

Companies use cloud systems to organize information and collaborate across teams. As the hub for all of a company’s information, it is important that these systems can withstand cyber threats. Cloud security also extends to cloud-connected products.

Cloud security is based on the same principles as application security, except cloud security is based on a shared responsibility model, where the cloud provider secures the operating system infrastructure and the user secures their own information they put in the cloud. For example, the provider will implement firewalls to protect the network, and the user will control data and access management, like MFA.

Identity and Data Security

Verifying who is accessing your information plays a vital role in cybersecurity. Hackers can break into closed networks, and at the same time, more people are working remotely and need to access servers from outside the company network. Identity security validates the identity of people and non-human entities accessing a program, while data security protects sensitive information from unauthorized access once it’s stored or shared.

Mobile Security

Mobile devices, like smartphones and tablets, are increasingly being used for business purposes. As such, they have access to company data that must be protected. Like similar products, mobile devices have to be secured against hackers, viruses, and malware. However, mobile devices also face the risks of theft, loss, and jailbreaking, which require additional contingencies.

Network Security

Companies use network security to protect against disruptions and attacks that occur over a network. There are various forms of network security. One of the methods that Pivot International uses is transport layer security (TLS), which encrypts communications sent between applications on a network so that our partners can be confident in the security of their products.

Disaster Recovery Security

Disaster recovery security (DRS) keeps systems running during and after incidents such as cyberattacks, power outages, and natural disasters. DRS is an integral part of building cyber resilience in modern products. Having a disaster recovery plan prepares systems to recover from unexpected events.

Different Types of Cyberattacks

We’ve discussed some of the many ways to protect your products from cyberattacks, but it’s also important to know exactly what you are protecting against. While not exhaustive, these are some common types of cyberattacks.

• Phishing: Attackers pose as reputable companies to get people to click on a link and input sensitive information, like passwords or credit card details, into a fraudulent website. These attacks usually occur over email or text messages and have become quite sophisticated looking. They can include company logos and other nice imagery that allude to a legitimate company.
• Spoofing: A means to make phishing attacks more believable. Attackers using spoofing may take the time to make email addresses or caller IDs appear as if they are coming from a trusted source, which not all phishing attacks take the time to do.
• Malware: A virus unknowingly released on devices when users click on infected files or links. Often times, these can be included in phishing or spoofing emails.
• Ransomware: A type of malware that encrypts a user’s files and demands a ransom in return for their data, sometimes under threat of data destruction.
• Spyware: Spyware steals information stored on people’s devices. A type of malware, spyware can go undetected or slow down devices by generating many pop-up ads.
• Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attack: A coordinated overloading of a system to disrupt functions or render the system unresponsive.
• Code Injection Attack: A category of attacks where attackers exploit sites with poor data validation by injecting their code and having the applications run it. Tamper detection software identifies injected code or unauthorized modifications, helping prevent the program from running compromised code.
• SQL Injection: Harmful code is entered into web applications that can alter or destroy data when not detected by security software.
• Cross-site Scripting (XSS): Sites without strong cybersecurity are susceptible to XSS, where an attacker can inject code and act as if they are another user, with all of that user’s access.
• Supply Chain Attack: Targets software involved in supply chain management. These attacks usually target suppliers for large companies that have strong cybersecurity protections in place, as they can then access the entire network.
• Password Attack: One of the most common types of cyberattacks, password attacks can be conducted through various means, including phishing emails posing as a password reset or brute force attacks where programs run through possible variations.

Securing Your Product

Everyone wants to have a quick time-to-market. However, it’s important not to sacrifice the security of your customer and your product. Spending time and money to create a secure product can be the “make-or-break” for success in the market. Widespread security issues in products would not only cause a loss of customer trust; they could also cost a significant amount of money when the company must remedy a problem.

Cybersecurity is now an essential part of software development for all IoT products. Knowledge of and implementation of these security measures into your IoT product is vital but can also be daunting. Pivot International works with our partners to design software resilient enough to withstand cyberthreats. To learn more about our global teams and how they can work with you, contact us today.

Key Benefits of Working with Cross-Functional Teams in Product Development

All companies aim to become experts in their field, but some take an approach that stifles innovation by only focusing on one thing. Additionally, a lack of understanding between teams with different specialties lengthens the time it takes to get products on shelves and causes mistakes.

Cross-functional teams address these challenges by bringing together professionals from various disciplines and aligning their efforts toward a common goal. This approach not only enhances creativity but also streamlines processes, leading to more efficient and successful product development.

Who Do You Need on a Product Development Team?

A successful cross-functional product development team should include engineers, designers, supply chain, quality control, manufacturing teams, and leaders who understand the needs of their customers and direct the team. These roles all have their expertise, but as members of the same team, they can quickly and effectively communicate with each other.

Managers:

Account managers are the first point of contact for customers. They initiate the relationship, learn about the customer’s needs, and oversee business operations. Account managers must understand their customers’ businesses to create an effective strategy.

Once the account manager has initial information about the customer’s idea for the project, a meeting is arranged with a project manager to develop a plan. Project managers also communicate with customers, but after the account manager has vetted the business opportunity. Project managers act as the engineering team’s leader. They create schedules, give assignments, and establish goals. Project managers must have engineering or product design expertise to effectively lead their team.

Engineers:

Successful products are often the result of collaborations between different types of engineers. In cross-functional teams, engineers have a more open line of communication; being on the same team increases familiarity. Software engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and hardware engineers are all important members of product development teams.

Software engineers design and code software systems. Their contributions include developing operating systems and apps that connect to their physical products. Software engineers should know international standards and do thorough testing before releasing a product outside of the beta environment.

Mechanical engineers develop products for a wide range of industries. They commonly design engines and machines, but their expertise can be applied to many products. Mechanical engineers use tools such as CAD modeling to design and redesign products to the customer’s satisfaction.

Electrical engineers and electronics engineers are both valuable members of cross-functional teams. Though similar, electrical engineers focus on designing large electrical systems, and electronics engineers work on smaller complex electrical components. Hardware engineers develop and maintain computer hardware, like control systems.

All of the engineers mentioned contribute to different parts of a product’s functionality. However, innovation and functionality alone do not guarantee a product’s success. When making purchasing decisions, consumers see how a product looks before learning about all of its capabilities. Industrial designers are essential to any cross-functional team, as they design for aesthetics and functionality.

Supply Chain Experts:

Supply chain teams source parts and track pricing and availability to ensure all product components stay on schedule to eliminate the risk of production delays. A global supply chain team sources worldwide, providing customers with greater reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Having a strong supply chain is critical to cross-functional teams. In 2014, Coolest Cooler raised millions on Kickstarter to build their cooler brand, which advertised a “portable party.” However, by the time the product was manufactured and shipped, the cost of producing each cooler exceeded the minimum pledge amount required to receive a cooler by $70. An investigation and a flurry of angry customers, who were still waiting for their coolers 2 years after supporting the campaign, led to the brand’s failure. If Coolest Cooler had implemented cross-functional teams, supply chain experts would have been involved during the planning process, and the company would have known how much their coolers would actually cost to manufacture and planned accordingly.

Regulation and Production

Before going to market, a product must pass regulatory and quality control standards. Quality control teams oversee quality control systems and ensure that items comply with regulatory standards, such as the ones set by the ISO, and government requirements, like CE markings.

Production and manufacturing teams manage sites where the product gets made. They plan and schedule production runs and can provide feedback to engineers to help with design for manufacturing (DFM). In their day-to-day management of production lines, manufacturing teams will also be the first to recognize if something in production is not working as it should.

Assembling the Team

Depending on your specific product needs, you may not need to utilize all areas of a cross-functional team. Once the project manager has met with the customer, they will determine the best team composition, considering the needed skills and the potential synergy between teams.

Effective collaboration across disciplines is crucial, as each team member brings a unique perspective and skill set that contributes to the overall success of the product. Ensuring that these diverse areas of expertise work together seamlessly not only enhances the product’s development process but also fosters innovation and helps in addressing challenges from multiple angles. This collaborative approach leads to more well-rounded products that better meet customer needs and market demands.

Working with a Partner

If your company has not implemented cross-functional teams, partnering with a company with experienced teams in place is the quickest path to success. Existing cross-functional teams have established a strong team dynamic that can instantly be applied to developing your product. Additionally, a learning curve exists when entering new industries that seasoned teams have already passed, leading to a quicker time-to-market.

For companies looking for a product development partner, the key benefit of choosing a partner with cross-functional teams in place is that all areas of your project can be handled by the same provider instead of multiple companies, which can lead to a lack of communication and pricing differences between firms. The streamlined processes provided by cross-functional teams build a foundation for success.

Having engineers from different disciplines on one team fosters a smoother development process. At Pivot International, our teams work with our partners to design, develop, and manufacture their product ideas, starting from any point in the process. Our experience developing products for various industries gives us the skills and expertise to help with your next product solution. To learn more, contact us today.

Which Type of Motor is Right for Your Product?

From air conditioning and agricultural equipment to toothbrushes and wind-up cars, we are surrounded by motors. However, motors are not one-size-fits-all. It is essential to choose an appropriate motor for your product that fits your budget and performance requirements.

Types of Motors – AC vs. DC

All motors convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. The two main types of motors are AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). In DC motors, the electric current maintains the same voltage, while in AC motors, changing magnetic field polarity causes the current to switch directions periodically.

When choosing a motor, consider your power source. AC motors cannot convert DC power to AC power. Any product running on batteries, which produce DC, must also have a DC motor. On the other hand, some DC motors can convert AC power to DC power with commutation, which prevents polarity reversal.

Current, voltage, and velocity are critical factors to consider when choosing a motor for your product. It is important to know the capabilities of each one and what your product can handle.

DC Motors – Brushed vs. Brushless

The two main categories of DC motors are brushed and brushless. Brushless motors are more efficient, have a longer lifespan, and require less maintenance than brushed motors, but are also more expensive.

Brushed DC Motors

In brushed motors, the commutator is rotated by brushes that control current polarity. Brushed motors are suitable for applications that require low to moderate power and efficiency. Brushed motors can also be controlled with simple electronic circuits and are a good choice for products requiring a low-speed, high-torque motor. However, brushes wear out over time, meaning these motors require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan than their brushless counterparts. It is important to know the amount of power and speed regulation your device needs to work effectively, as it dictates which type of brushed motor is best for your product.

Types of Brushed Motors

• Shunt Wound: These motors have a medium-high starting torque without a reduction in speed. They are usually used in industrial applications that need to keep a stable speed, such as winding or unwinding machines.
• Series Wound: Series wound motors have a strong starting torque but have poor speed regulation. They are well-suited for applications that need a lot of power, such as trains and hoists.
• Compound Wound: Compound wound motors have both shunt and series windings. Because of this, they have the strong torque of series wound motors and the speed regulation of shunt wound motors, making them a common choice for industrial applications like conveyors and elevators.
• Permanent Magnet: Permanent magnet motors can run on both alternating and direct current. They regulate speed well and are used in low-horsepower applications. They are more efficient and compact than other motors, which use electromagnets. Pivot International company DCI designs and develops permanent magnet motors used in variable speed pumps for above-ground pools.

Brushless DC Motors

Brushless motors can operate at high speeds with precise speed and torque control, making them popular for high-speed and industrial applications. They also operate smoothly and quietly. Products where noise reduction is important, such as air conditioners, use brushless motors. American houses generally run on AC power, so brushless motors in air conditioners convert the AC to DC.

Our subsidiary Castle Creations is an expert in brushed and brushless DC motors for various applications, including firefighting helicopters and RC cars.

AC Motors

AC motors are powered by an alternating current that periodically changes direction. In AC motors, voltage changes periodically, making them more energy efficient than DC motors, which maintain voltage levels. Generally, devices with AC motors need to be plugged into a power source to run, though there are exceptions for AC motors that act as generators or have an inverter added to convert DC power to AC power.

Like brushless DC motors, AC motors require less maintenance than brushed motors because brushes need to be maintained and replaced over time. AC motors are often the most cost-effective option, as they are simpler than DC motors. However, DC motors have higher starting torque, providing quick acceleration.

Consider the power and precision you need when deciding whether to use an AC or DC motor. For applications requiring high precision, such as robotics, DC motors are usually the correct choice. Most household products use AC motors since they are cheaper and can be integrated easily into the existing power grid without needing current conversion. The two main types of AC motors are synchronous and asynchronous.

Types of AC Motors

Synchronous: Synchronous motors’ speed is proportional to the frequency of their voltage. These motors have high torque and efficiency and can be used as generators. However, they are also complex and expensive and, unlike DC motors, require separate starting devices.

Asynchronous: Also known as induction motors, asynchronous motors create torque from electromagnetic induction. Induction motors are lower power but are also simple, reliable, and cost-effective. Single-phase induction motors are used for lower-voltage applications, such as household appliances. Three-phase induction motors have a higher starting torque and are used in industrial applications.

Integration With Your Product

Ultimately, voltage, power, and performance are the main factors to consider when choosing a motor. Size is also critical, as a motor that is too small may not reach the desired output. Motors that are too large are heavier and more expensive.

Another element to account for is interaction with other components. Treadmills have speed controls and displays. They must be able to support the weight and impact of a human for extended periods. Treadmills with an incline function have a second motor to ensure that they can handle the power needed.

Choosing the right motor for your product can be a difficult task. Partnering with a motor control design company is the best way to ensure your product is effective and successful.

Pivot International has extensive experience in motor control design and build. Our cross-functional team has developed AC and DC motors for various applications. The addition of Castle Creations and DCI to the Pivot family of companies has expanded our motor expertise. To learn more about how we can help with your motor selection and design, contact our team to get started.

How Technology is Transforming the Construction Industry

Depending on how you define construction, it may be older than modern humans. The oldest evidence of a hominin structure is 1.8 million years old. Construction as we know it, producing large buildings and roads, dates to Mesopotamia 6,000 years ago, where bricks were the primary building material.

The Industrial Revolution completely transformed construction. It gained massive popularity as a profession as well as scientific breakthroughs led to expansive alternatives of building materials. Almost a century later, the Bessemer Process revolutionized steel production, making materials more affordable. Steel, combined with advancements in equipment, allowed engineers to design taller buildings than ever before.

Until recently, many job sites looked the same as in the 1980s. Though materials used in the construction industry has evolved quickly, it has been much slower to adopt technology.

Benefits of Technology in Construction

More recently, the construction industry has been plagued by labor shortages, worksite injuries, and project delays. Technology has been introduced into projects to alleviate these pressures. As technology has been added in, the industry has seen greater efficiency, quality, cost savings, and worker safety.

• Increased Job Site Efficiency

  Thanks to technology, we’re seeing a massive increase in job site efficiency by optimizing labor usage and performing basic tasks. With technology, land is surveyed faster, problems are detected earlier, and scheduling is easier. This leads to smoother operations and greatly reduces the chance of delays, ultimately speeding up project timelines.

• Increased Quality

  Another area that has seen improvement is the quality of construction. Robots and 3D printing both offer greater precision and consistency with construction tasks, while laser-based tools ensure accurate measurements. These technologies work together to reduce errors, enhance the durability of structures, and elevate overall construction standards.

• Cost Savings

  While the initial investment to upgrade your systems may seem costly, integrating technology into your processes leads to significant cost savings over time. Running virtual tests instead of building and rebuilding physical models saves valuable time and money. Additionally, improved material tracking systems help prevent over-ordering and reduce the likelihood of materials being lost or wasted, leading to more efficient use of resources and lower overall expenses.

• Worker Safety

  Worker safety has been brought to the forefront through technology. Wearables monitor the health of workers and can detect early warning signs of health issues. Sensors offer early detection of hazards, such as building instability. Safety training and procedures have also been the subject of more focus, as technology can test procedures for effectiveness.

Types of Technology Used in Construction

Industry 4.0 technology, characterized by connectivity, automation, and real-time data, is becoming more common in the construction industry. These technologies are not exclusive to construction; however, industries may use software differently to best fulfill their product needs.

• AI and Machine Learning

  AI and machine learning give engineers greater autonomy when designing buildings. Augmented reality and virtual reality bring 3D renderings of construction sites to life. Digital twins are virtual replicas of a physical object or system. With AI and digital twins, engineers can run tests to detect issues such as FDA compliance, safety hazards, and whether a building is structurally sound.

  Machine learning can power construction robots to perform labor-intensive or monotonous tasks, improving worker safety and filling roles left open by worker shortages.

• Robots

  Currently, most construction robots perform demolition. However, the role of robots in construction is rapidly evolving, with an increasing number of robots being utilized for building tasks. These robots can now perform functions such as lifting and placing heavy materials and assisting in bricklaying.

  3D printing is not just used to create models and parts—in some cases, it makes entire buildings. 3D construction printing robots extrude materials like concrete, metal, or polymers based on digital models, methodically building structures layer by layer. This technology greatly enhances the speed and precision of construction and creates new possibilities for innovative designs and sustainable building practices.

• Blockchain Technology

  Though this word is now commonly associated with cryptocurrency, a blockchain is a digital, public ledger. In businesses, blockchain is used to track materials across supply chains. Construction sites may also use blockchain to track worker safety violations and improve worksite safety.

• Drones

  Before designing and building a project, it is vital to survey the land it will be built on. In some cases, a survey is required to get a construction permit, as they provide important information that must be considered when planning the foundation of your building so that it’s structurally sound.

  Drones can survey land more efficiently and at a lower cost than humans physically covering a large area. They can fly over an area and take images in a fraction of the time, providing land and site analysis information. As the project progresses, drones can also track equipment and act as surveillance.

• Sensor Technology

  Drones are not the only valuable tool for surveying. Advanced sensor technology, including 3D sensors and lasers, plays a crucial role in efficiently measuring and mapping sites. These sensors can capture data and monitor environmental conditions in real time. By tracking factors like humidity, air quality, and vibrations, sensors enable remote monitoring of sites, allowing for early detection of potential issues and more proactive management of resources.

Technology That Can Withstand Harsh Environments

When designing electronics for construction sites, it is important that they are suited for the environment they will be used in. High-voltage systems must be safe and monitorable. Airborne and down-hole tools must be designed to withstand high temperatures and pressure. If working in potentially explosive environments, it is essential to have ATEX-certified systems.

Management Software

Construction companies use management software to centralize personnel information, like scheduling. Labor shortages are currently a problem in the construction industry, so using management software helps companies balance schedules and optimize available workers.

Project management software helps project managers keep projects on time and on budget. This software also provides transparency to stakeholders, as anyone with access can see data on how the project is progressing.

Implementing Technology into Construction

Integrating new technology into your construction project will make it safer, faster, and more cost-effective. Developing a system tailored to your needs keeps things running as smoothly as possible, from surveying to freeing up staff from basic tasks to work on more advanced assignments to finishing a job on time. The best way to ensure successful implementation is to have expertise in these new technologies. If that doesn’t apply to you but you still want to add technology to your team, partnering with an experienced engineering firm is a perfect solution.

Pivot International has over 50 years of experience designing and developing products for our partners in various industries, including construction. We have global teams of designers and developers that are experts in embedded systems, software design, IoT and sensor technology. To learn how we can find the solution to your needs, contact our team today.

Fitness Monitors: Redefining Personal Health

In an ever-evolving world filled with new technology, one area that has seen exponential growth in the last decade is personal fitness monitors. People who once started their days with solitary runs on sidewalks can now run through the mountains with a personal trainer, all from the comfort of their own homes.

When developing a fitness tracker, it is vital to have a partner who understands the ever-changing world of technology. However, as new features are developed, it is still important to give proper attention to standard features to produce the best product.

Capabilities of Personal Fitness Monitors

Personal fitness trackers have a range of capabilities. At the basic level, most track heart rate and number of steps taken. Additionally, these features can work together to track sleep patterns.

1. Heart Rate Tracking

Just as everyone has their own fitness goals, there is no single target heart rate. Target heart rate is dependent on age and fitness level.

Generally, individuals should aim for a heart rate between 70- to 80% of their maximum heart rate when doing high-intensity exercise. Going past this boundary can lead to lightheadedness, nausea, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Fitness monitors track heart rate by emitting green LEDs. When blood vessels in the wrist have higher concentrations of red blood cells, they expand and absorb more green light, while contracted blood vessels absorb less. The fitness monitors measure the intensity of light reflected from the wrist to measure the pulse.

2. Electrocardiograms (ECGs)

Some fitness monitors track heart rate with ECGs instead of light. ECGs detect the heart’s electrical current to track beats. ECG sensors enhance the accuracy of heart rate tracking, providing precise data on heart rate and rhythm. This is beneficial for detecting irregular heartbeats or other cardiac problems.

3. Stress Monitoring

Some fitness monitors use heart rate variability (HRV) to gauge and report user stress levels. Although some stress, such as an increase in heart rate from exercise, is good, chronic stress can lead to cardiovascular problems in the future. A high HRV indicates low-level stress, while a low HRV indicates more stress or low fitness.

4. Sleep Tracking

Fitness monitors also track health during sleep. This is done by combining heart rate and movement data.

During the day, fitness monitors track steps using accelerometers, which measure movement. Combined with heart rate tracking, which measures when heart rate lowers during deep sleep, fitness monitors can provide a picture of the time spent asleep, the quality of sleep, and movement through the sleep cycle.

As fitness monitors have become more advanced, they have started to detect sleep disorders in addition to sleep quality. Sleep data can indicate sleep apnea, which has symptoms including the stopping and starting of breathing, loud snoring, and gasping for air.

At-home sleep tracking may not be as accurate as data collected in a sleep lab, but it accounts for many nights of sleep, not just one instance in an unfamiliar place. If a fitness monitor detects a sleep disorder, individuals may visit a doctor for further testing.

Benefits of Personal Fitness Monitors

Fitness monitors give users greater access to information that can be used to create personal fitness plans. Their tracking capabilities allow users to see their progress in real-time and get personalized feedback on their fitness goals.

Fitness monitors can also link with other smart products to create a more comprehensive health picture. Linking a fitness monitor to a smart scale provides more accurate and up-to-date information about body composition that can be used to create a personalized fitness plan.

Fitness monitors also increase individuals’ motivation to work on their health. In addition to the physical data fitness trackers provide, people can connect with other users on the fitness monitor network.

Limitations of Personal Fitness Monitors

Despite the wealth of information afforded to fitness monitor users, there are still limitations. Not all data provided by fitness trackers is approved by the FDA—that is, although the information helps create personal health and fitness plans, it alone cannot be used to make a medical diagnosis.

Getting FDA approval is a lengthy process that can be difficult to navigate. FDA registration is needed for current good manufacturing practice (cGMP), and additional approval is required for a fitness monitor to qualify as a medical device. For those unfamiliar with FDA processes, having a partner with knowledge with the FDA can alleviate the difficulty of a complicated process.

Innovations in Fitness-Monitoring Equipment

When developing a fitness monitor, it is important to be aware of new developments in a quickly evolving field.

Oxygen Saturation (SpO2): Similar to how heart rate is measured with green LEDs, oxygen saturation is measured by emitting red light onto the wrist. The fitness monitor then measures the amount of light reflected off subcutaneous tissue or bone to determine blood oxygen levels.

The drawback to SpO2 sensors in wearable fitness monitors is that the FDA has not yet approved them as a medical device.

Environmental Sensors: Environmental sensors are one of the newest innovations in wearable fitness monitors. These sensors can alert users to poor air quality by detecting volatile organic compounds. Although there are still limitations to air quality assessment due to the recent development of the technology in wearables, it provides another source of data to help people monitor their health. Personal fitness monitors can also include UV light sensors that detect when UV light is harmful to humans.

Creating a fitness monitor that stands out in today’s market requires extensive knowledge of engineering and design. If your team does not have this experience, finding a partner skilled in this realm is key to producing a successful product.

Continued Evolution

As the popularity of personal fitness monitoring continues to grow, so does the engineering and design that goes into these devices. Fitness monitors provide a holistic view of personal health and wellness. The continued innovation of fitness monitors will lead to even greater insights into our health and help us create better daily routines.

Pivot International’s global, multi-disciplined design team has over 50 years of experience in design and development. Its medical device products have won various awards, including the German Product Design Award and the European Product Design Award for Life Science Design. If you would like to learn more about developing your own fitness device, or ways you can advance your existing product, contact our team to learn how we can help.

Successful Product Development Partnership Do’s and Don’ts

In the exciting world of product development, your finished product often takes center stage. But behind the scenes there are a myriad of moving parts, decisions, and relationships. One of these relationships is the one you have with your product development partner. The new product development partnership is crucial to the success of your product and time to market.

Pivot International is a proven product development partner with over 50 years in business. We help our customers design, develop, and manufacture award-winning products. We know firsthand how important developing and maintaining good working relationships with our customers can be, and we wanted to share our insights on this crucial and often underestimated part of the product development process.

The Power of a Strong Partnership

A strong relationship with your product development partner goes beyond technical expertise. It’s about building trust, open communication, and a shared vision for your product. The best product development partnerships are formed when both companies, respectively, are experts in their own fields. They truly complement one another’s skills. Here are a few major benefits a product development partner can bring to your business:

Expertise and Innovation: A reputable development partner brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. Their insights can catalyze innovation, helping you refine and transform your ideas into market-ready solutions.

Resource Optimization: Collaborating with a product development partner allows you to leverage their resources, including specialized skills, technologies, and facilities. This partnership optimizes resource allocation, enabling you to focus on your core competencies while entrusting product development to capable hands.

Speed to Market: In today’s fast-paced business environment, time is of the essence. A strong partnership accelerates the product development process, reducing time-to-market and giving you a competitive edge. An established partner will already have the infrastructure and processes in place to allow for a smooth transition from concept to design and into production.

Risk Mitigation: Working closely with a trusted partner minimizes the many inherent risks associated with product development. Sharing responsibilities and expertise enables you to navigate challenges more effectively and mitigate potential setbacks.

Long-term Success: Building a solid relationship with your product development partner fosters mutual trust and collaboration. This foundation is essential for long-term success, as it paves the way for ongoing innovation, product evolution, and market adaptation.

Establishing Boundaries: The Do’s and Don’ts of Building a Successful Product Development Partnership

Now that we’ve gone over some benefits of forming a strong partnership let’s talk about boundaries. Here, we’ve compiled a list of do’s and don’ts your company should follow in order to build a strong relationship with your product development partner.

Do:

• Conduct Thorough Research: Before selecting a product development partner, you should conduct extensive research on each potential candidate. Evaluate their track record, expertise, and compatibility with your business objectives.
• Clearly Define Goals and Expectations: Effectively communicate the project objectives, timelines, and expectations early in the relationship. Discuss your vision and encourage open dialogue between all parties involved.
• Establish Clear Agreements: Now that you’ve discussed your goals and expectations, it’s time to define roles, responsibilities, timelines, and deliverables through well-defined agreements. Clarity in these aspects minimizes misunderstandings and ensures alignment between both parties.
• Foster Collaboration: Cultivate a collaborative environment where ideas are freely exchanged, and feedback is valued between all parties. Encourage teamwork and mutual respect to harness the collective expertise of both parties. Scheduling regular meetings to discuss feedback or brainstorm ideas is a great step to ensure this happens.
• Embrace Flexibility: Being flexible and adaptable to the ever-changing product development environment is vital. Know that there will be unforeseen challenges and changes in project scope, and plan for those by open and frequent communication. A willingness to adjust strategies and timelines can foster resilience and ensure project success.

Don’t:

• Overlook Due Diligence: Avoid rushing into a partnership without conducting due diligence. Neglecting to thoroughly vet potential partners can lead to mismatched expectations and subpar outcomes. You wouldn’t buy a car without doing your research, so don’t fall short when researching your product development partner.
• Micromanage: Resist the urge to micromanage the product development process and the team members involved. Trust your partner’s expertise and allow them the autonomy to execute tasks effectively, while maintaining a healthy oversight.
• Neglect Communication: Communication gaps can derail even the most promising partnerships. Avoid neglecting communication channels or withholding crucial information that could impact the project’s trajectory. If a change is discussed in a meeting, ensure it’s followed up with the changes in an email sent to all parties.
• Suppress Feedback: All parties involved in the product development process should openly voice any questions or concerns as they arise. This could avoid potential issues down the road. Make sure you’re encouraging constructive criticism, as it helps everyone grow.
• Ignore Red Flags: Pay attention to warning signs or red flags during the selection process or throughout the partnership. Address concerns promptly and transparently to mitigate potential risks. If you sense ambiguity, address this head-on to establish clear lines of communication from the beginning.
• Underestimate the Importance of Relationship Building: Building a strong relationship with your product development partner requires investment in time, effort, and trust. Avoid underestimating the significance of nurturing this relationship for long-term success.

By prioritizing a strong relationship with your development partner, and following our guidance, we hope you have a clearer path on laying the foundation for the success and innovation of your product. Your finished product is simply the end result, but the journey it takes along the way will determine the success and longevity in the market.

Establishing and prioritizing clear communication, collaboration, and mutual respect with your chosen product development partner will set the stage for next-generation products in today’s competitive landscape.

If you want to learn more about Pivot International and our product development expertise, contact us today. We offer global teams of project managers, engineers, and supply chain experts. Through our electronic manufacturing sites throughout North America, Europe, and Asia – we’re here to help your company succeed.

Charting the Course of New Product Development in 2024 and Beyond

As the dust settles on 2023, the horizon of 2024 shimmers with the promise of innovation. In the ever-evolving landscape of new product development (NPD), the winds of change are stirring, whispering tales of technological marvels and consumer experiences yet to be imagined. So, fasten your seatbelts, fellow explorers, as we embark on a voyage through the uncharted waters of NPD in 2024 and beyond, navigating the exciting currents of cutting-edge technologies and emerging trends.

New Product Development Trends in 2024

The Symphony of AI and Data: In 2024, the harmonious blend of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data will orchestrate a revolution in NPD. AI-powered tools will sift through mountains of consumer data, unearthing hidden insights and predicting future trends with uncanny accuracy. Imagine products designed not just for the present but for the desires and needs of tomorrow. AI will streamline the process, automating repetitive tasks and optimizing workflows, allowing human ingenuity to blossom on the fertile ground of creative problem-solving.

Personalized Products and Experiences: Consumers crave experiences tailored to their unique preferences and lifestyles. In 2024, customization and personalization will take center stage. 3D printing, buoyed by advancements in AI and material science, will enable on-demand manufacturing of bespoke products, meeting individual needs with laser precision. Imagine designing your own running shoes that perfectly cradle your arch or crafting a smartphone case that reflects your artistic soul. The era of mass-produced homogeneity is fading, replaced by a symphony of products as diverse and vibrant as humanity itself.

Blurring the Lines Between Physical and Digital: The digital world is no longer confined to screens. In 2024, we’ll witness an exhilarating confluence of the physical and the digital. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) will break free from their headsets, weaving themselves into the fabric of our daily lives. Imagine trying on clothes without stepping into a store, or learning surgery in a hyper-realistic virtual operating room. The lines between the tangible and the virtual will blur, creating immersive experiences that reshape how we interact with the world around us.

Sustainability Takes the Helm: The call for environmentally conscious products will reach a crescendo in 2024. Consumers will demand solutions that are not just innovative, but also sustainable. Biodegradable materials will replace their environmentally harmful counterparts, and closed-loop manufacturing systems will minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. Imagine driving a car crafted from recycled ocean plastic or using a smartphone powered by bioluminescent algae. Sustainability will no longer be a buzzword, but an essential pillar of NPD, guiding every step from ideation to market launch.

Well-being at the Forefront: As global anxieties rise, the focus will shift towards products that promote well-being and mental health. In 2024, we’ll see a surge in devices and applications that monitor and optimize our emotional states. Imagine smart lamps that adjust the light to combat seasonal depression or wearable tech that guides you through calming meditation exercises. The pursuit of physical health will broaden to encompass emotional and mental well-being, with NPD taking center stage in this evolution.

Beyond the Horizon: Charting the Future of Innovation

These are just a few brushstrokes on the canvas of NPD in 2024. As we venture further into the uncharted territory of the future, several overarching themes will guide the journey:

• Human-centric design: Technology will evolve to serve us, not the other way around. Empathy and understanding of human needs will be the compass guiding innovation.
• Collaboration and co-creation: The walls between companies and consumers will crumble, paving the way for collaborative NPD ecosystems where ideas flow freely and solutions are co-created.
• Ethical considerations: As technology becomes more powerful, responsible development and deployment will be paramount. Balancing innovation with ethical considerations will be the true test of our progress.

The future of NPD is a kaleidoscope of possibilities, a symphony of human ingenuity and technological marvel. As we embrace the changes that lie ahead, let us remember: the true journey of new product development is not just about creating things, but about creating a better future for ourselves and the world around us. So, let us embark on this journey with open minds, curious hearts, and a shared mission to build a brighter tomorrow, one innovation at a time.

With over 50 years of designing and developing the most technologically advanced products, we are ready to take your product to new heights. Contact our team to learn how we can help.

Wireless Solutions for New Product Development

In the ever-changing landscape of technology, wireless solutions have become vital to the development of new products and the advancement of established ones alike. Businesses are constantly seeking the most efficient and effective wireless solution to drive innovation and stay ahead of the curve.

Different Types of Wireless Solutions

Wireless solutions offer several advantages over traditional wired solutions, including increased flexibility, reduced costs, and improved performance. With so many options, each with unique pros and cons, it’s imperative to understand which solution is best for your product. Let’s review the most common wireless solutions to ensure they meet your product’s and target market’s specific needs.

Wi-Fi: One of the most commonly used forms of wireless technologies, it offers high-speed data transmission along with a reliable connection over short distances. Many consumer electronic products include Wi-Fi connectivity and are great for applications requiring high data transfer rates.

Wi-Fi does have a few drawbacks, power consumption and signal interference being the main ones. For products that require battery power, this might not be the best option.

Bluetooth: Most connected devices include Bluetooth technology. Bluetooth is famous for its low power usage and short-range connectivity, from vehicle FOBs to keyboards. This is why it’s found in many small devices. It’s highly compatible with a laundry list of devices, so it’s great for consumer products as it allows for easy and fast connectivity.

The major downfall of Bluetooth is the short-range it requires to connect. The device must be within a very short distance of the connection source to receive signals. Another more recent issue is the security of data transmissions. This poses a potential risk of exploiting information over a less secure connection.

Cellular: Most of us have seen the advancement from 3G to 4G and now 5G cellular technology. It offers high-speed data transmission over large geographic regions. This allows for constant connectivity with high data transfer rates. With the evolution of 5G, we’re seeing more IoT capabilities across a larger range of products.

As you can imagine, a steady stream of connectivity comes with a higher cost of connectivity. With constantly being connected also comes a higher rate of energy consumption. Cellular technology is not an ideal solution for battery-dependent devices.

ZigBee: This is a less commonly known wireless solution, but it’s found in several industrial and home automation applications. ZigBee is a low-power, low-data rate wireless protocol that supports a large number of devices within a connective network. Due to its low power consumption, it can run for long periods of time without replacing a battery.

With low power comes low-speed data transfer rates. If your product requires high-speed data transfer, ZigBee is not your solution.

LoRa: LoRa stands for Long Range and is a wireless technology designed for Low-Power, Wide-Area Networks (LPWANs). It’s ideal for IoT applications that require connection over large distances. It’s also a reliable source of connectivity, as its signal can penetrate obstacles that other wireless solutions cannot.

The major tradeoff to LoRa is a lower data transfer rate, as it travels across long distances.

Choosing the Right Wireless Solution for Your Product

Now that we’ve gone over the different types of wireless solutions, you must choose which is right for your product. A few other factors to consider include:

• Range: How far do the devices need to communicate with each other?
• Data rate: How much data needs to be transferred between the devices?
• Power consumption: How long must the devices need to operate on a single battery charge?
• Cost: What is the budget for the wireless solution?
• Security: How important is security for the wireless application?

Once you’ve answered these questions, you should better understand the wireless solution that’s right for your product. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each wireless solution, businesses can make informed decisions that align with their product development goals and long-term strategies for technological advancement.

If your company lacks the understanding of wireless solutions or the skillset to build these solutions, partnering with a product design firm with software and firmware engineers can be the winning solution.

Pivot International has over 50 years of experience designing, developing, and manufacturing electronic products. With a team of more than 150 multi-disciplined engineers spanning across three continents, we are confident we can develop the wireless solution for you. Contact our team to learn more.