I'm gonna try to attempt to build a prototype for a knife design I have. I'm not a knifemaker and don't know the first thing about making them. I'm trying to make a model for an idea I have and the company I proposed the idea to suggested I build one out of plastic. How can I go about this? Thanks for any help.
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Not a knifemaker but I'm trying to build a prototype model.
- Thread starter Homer49
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Is this a "conventional" knife? I'm not sure about the rationale behind using plastic..I would buy some steel in the grade that you plan on making it from. you may want to contact David (he's a forum member) at Greatlakeswaterjet.com to cut a few out for you.
-Mark
-Mark
I think it's moreso just to show a physical model more than anything to said company. I don't know why plastic was suggested either but if you think there's a better way then I'd be happy to hear it.
Also, how do I go about getting a patent on such a project if anyone knows?
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That's a bit of a gray area.. If it's truly an original concept you may want to look into obtaining a provisional patent... or at the very least, consult an attorney that is knowledgeable in such things. If it is an original design you are looking to protect, you may be looking at copyrighting instead... although there's not a lot that hasn't been done. I'm sure someone with more knowledge in this subject will chime in and correct me
-Mark
Nathan the Machinist
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I'm the product design manager for a contract design and engineering company. The majority of our business is industrial and medical. However, we also see a lot of "inventors" who want their patented ideas produced and come to us for plastic design and manufacturing assistance.
In the five years I've been here, I would say that most of the stuff that comes in from inventors was probably a waste of the person's money to patent. Having a "good idea" and protecting that idea and selling that idea seldom makes money.
The best reason to get a patent is to protect a useful and non obvious product or process that you have invested time and money developing. And you want to produce and sell it. Any you don't want copycats. If that isn't you, you're likely to waste money patenting it.
With that said, if you have a good 3D CAD model you can create STL geometry and send it to a service bureau and have SLA models grown in thermoset plastic for a physical model. Google "Fineline Prototyping", they're 1st class. Figure on paying between $200-$800 for your plastic prototypes.
In the five years I've been here, I would say that most of the stuff that comes in from inventors was probably a waste of the person's money to patent. Having a "good idea" and protecting that idea and selling that idea seldom makes money.
The best reason to get a patent is to protect a useful and non obvious product or process that you have invested time and money developing. And you want to produce and sell it. Any you don't want copycats. If that isn't you, you're likely to waste money patenting it.
With that said, if you have a good 3D CAD model you can create STL geometry and send it to a service bureau and have SLA models grown in thermoset plastic for a physical model. Google "Fineline Prototyping", they're 1st class. Figure on paying between $200-$800 for your plastic prototypes.
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The best way for a patent is via an attorney.
I went the route of Provisional Patent with legalzoom, then shopped around the idea, since it was protected. (still got non-disclosure statements)
Found a company that wanted it, and a provision of the licensing agreement stated they had to pay for the patent.
I went the route of Provisional Patent with legalzoom, then shopped around the idea, since it was protected. (still got non-disclosure statements)
Found a company that wanted it, and a provision of the licensing agreement stated they had to pay for the patent.
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when i want to prototype something i use plexiglass from home depot
i buy the 1/8 inch sheet and build up layers using superglue to the thickness i want
blade, scales and all
it's easy to hand cut with a coping saw, files and sands great
with some practice i can prototype a 4" blade w/ handle in under an hour using only hand tools
i buy the 1/8 inch sheet and build up layers using superglue to the thickness i want
blade, scales and all
it's easy to hand cut with a coping saw, files and sands great
with some practice i can prototype a 4" blade w/ handle in under an hour using only hand tools
greatlakeswaterjet
I really hate bladeforums. Which is why I still co
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If its just a profile, you can send me the idea. Confidential as always. I can do the CAD for you if need be. I don't mind cutting one or two for prototypes. Call me anytime. Just remember me when you get the big contract!
If its just a profile, you can send me the idea. Confidential as always. I can do the CAD for you if need be. I don't mind cutting one or two for prototypes. Call me anytime. Just remember me when you get the big contract!
Well I don't know if you're serious or not but anyone that helps in the project would deserve a share.
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Oh, I'm sure David's serious.
He's a hell of a guy.
He's a hell of a guy.
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Not sure what your design looks like and what you need to accomplish with your model(s) so it's hard to say what would be the best medium. There have been some great ideas and offers presented. Most of them are predicated on already having your design worked out.
If you are still in the draft stages you might want to consider modeling clays or waxes. There are lots of types available, for each, at various hardnesses under different "working heat" conditions. This might be a good next step, after your sketches, on your way to working out models, production prototypes and processes (if you need it).
If you are still in the draft stages you might want to consider modeling clays or waxes. There are lots of types available, for each, at various hardnesses under different "working heat" conditions. This might be a good next step, after your sketches, on your way to working out models, production prototypes and processes (if you need it).