Designing a custom case for a product can be challenging under normal circumstances. But designing a case for a product that’s still in development is even more difficult.
Sometimes, circumstances like time constraints, budget considerations, or other factors may require you to design a custom case before the product is out of the development stage. This situation heavily influences the case design process because it means that your design must be flexible enough to accommodate any product modifications without sacrificing the core functions of the case.
Creating a custom case for that product with at most a prototype to work from means anticipating the unique demands of that product. The key to designing your case under these circumstances is to gather as many details as possible about the product, its construction, and any necessary parts that go with it, and use this information to create a case design. Keep reading to learn more about the process, and how to design a case that will perfectly fit and protect the finished product.
Requirements for Designing Your Case
Successfully designing a custom case for a product still in development means focusing on a few key details about the case and the product that you’re designing it for. Let’s take a closer look at the critical details you must know before starting the design process.
The Purpose of the Carrying Case
Designing the perfect custom carrying case for your product means first considering its ultimate purpose. Regardless of any changes that occur during development, the essential details about the product typically don’t change. As a result, you should be able to answer these questions during the development stage:
- Will your carry case need to meet air travel qualifications? For instance, Tetrafab produces cases exceeding federal guidelines in thickness, latching, and reparability requirements.
- Will the case be used directly by customers? What is its target audience?
- Is the product delicate?
- Will the contents need protection from water, moisture, or heat?
The materials used in production will have a big impact on a case’s ability to fulfill the purposes listed above. For example, the toughness and resiliency of nylon cases allow them to endure heavy use, giving them limitless potential for various product applications. On the other hand, neoprene cases add shock absorption and water resistance to their durable capabilities, while polyester may work for cases that require slightly less durability. If you have unique material requirements, PVC cases are very versatile and may meet special design requirements the other materials don’t quite fit.
Dimensions, Accessories, and Other Requirements
The next detail you’ll need to nail down are the required measurements for the interior and exterior of your custom-carrying case.
For both the exterior and interior of the case, you should have the measurements for the length, width, and height. The exact dimensions of the product and accessories are just as necessary before your designing process begins. Another vital step is determining whether your case will need a custom foam insert to stabilize the product or accessories like handles, casters, or straps.
Custom Carrying Case Styles
Another detail to consider is the style you’d like the case to be. This detail strongly relates to the purpose of your case. For example, it could be a briefcase or backpack style for easy individual transport. Tetrafab also offers you the freedom to design specialized, custom-sewn soft cases, including everything from all-in-one medical equipment transport bags to nylon cases for electronic equipment with various shapes and configurations.
Budget Considerations
One of the most critical carrying case pre-design requirements is knowing your budget constraints, particularly your per-unit limitation. This detail will help you narrow your choice of materials. Because they are the most durable and versatile, materials like neoprene and nylon are slightly more expensive than polyester and PVC.
The Importance of an Expert Design Team
To optimize your design process, it is beneficial to work with an expert design team like Tetrafab’s, especially when your product is still in development. They have the experience to help you finalize your design to accommodate your post-development product. Regardless of how innovative the design is, our advanced manufacturing methods will help you realize your vision for your carrying cases.
In addition, your carrying case’s size, strength, appearance, and durability can enhance your brand identity. Cases with a solid design and an ability to hold their luster through heavy use resonate with customers and stakeholders who encounter your cases. By taking advantage of working with our team in choosing the materials and layout for your case, you’ll have more control to produce a qualified product capable of representing your company well.
Moving Forward with Your Custom Carrying Case Design
There is no reason to put off designing your custom cases until your product completes the development stage, provided you have the necessary details for the design. This is especially true with the support of a quality carrying case manufacturer like Tetrafab. Contact us today to learn more about starting the design process.
