What is our Process?

 

At Lakelyf we recommend approaching design projects using a phased, iterative process. In this way, designs have an opportunity to be shared, scrutinized, and built-upon methodically to best reflect the intentions of project stakeholders. With tangible assets delivered after each project phase, client partners are in control of how far they want to take an idea.

Phase 01: Initial Consultation

  • Here we open discussion with our client partner and project stakeholders to discover & define the details, scope, timeline, and deliverables for a project.

    • Deliverable - Customized proposal outlining the project goals, scope, phases, deliverables, timelines, and pricing.

Phase 02: Initial Concepts

  • Based on our initial consultation and proposal, Lakelyf will produce an agreed upon number of design concepts capturing a variety of aesthetic and functional solutions. Designs in this phase are two-dimensional drawings, including overall-views and accompanying details.

  • Lakelyf presents the design concepts and facilitates selection of a concept(s) for further development.

    • Deliverable - Design document containing the concept design(s).

Phase 03: Concept Refinements

  • Lakelyf generates a more accurate depiction of the final product based on design selection(s) made in Phase 02. Aesthetic details, ergonomics, dimensions, critical consideration of manufacturing methods, product assembly, colors, materials, and finishes are further incorporated during this phase. Refined concepts are presented as two-dimensional drawings, including: orthographic views, perspective view(s), and accompanying details.

  • We present the refined concept(s) and facilitate selection of a design for further development in 3d.

    • Deliverable - design document containing refined concept design(s).

Phase 04: Initial 3d CAD model

  • Creation of a parametric Solidworks 3d model of the selected design direction from Phase 03. This model is used to confirm product aesthetic, dimensions, placement of internal components, and initial part interaction. Internal component design may be ongoing during this phase.

  • Presentation of the initial CAD model.

    • Deliverable - 3d renderings depicting orthographic, perspective, exploded, and detail views of the design. Initial 3d-CAD file.

Phase 05: Final 3d CAD model

  • Lakelyf refines the initial CAD model from Phase 04 to enable 3d printing and subsequent prototype assembly. External aesthetic details, internal features, part definition, dimensions, over-molding areas, and assembly methods are finalized.

  • Presentation of the final CAD model.

    • Deliverable - 3d renderings depicting orthographic, perspective, exploded, and detail views of the design. 3d-CAD file containing individual part data ready for 3d printing / rapid prototyping.

Phase 06: Production Support

  • In this phase we may facilitate the selection and contracting of partners for prototyping, material supply, and manufacturing. On-location services and production site visits included.