The engineer need only see the spreadsheet. Aided by performance data from the vane optimization test rig, engineers will be able to verify and calibrate their predictive model. Manufacturing is the last step in the automated production system. Company engineers are currently leaning toward selective laser sintering because of its use of powder metal. One hazard of exploring new technology is the possibility of big spending with little return.
Blind alleys are common.
The Small Business Innovation Research program absorbs development costs on risky projects that small companies might otherwise be hesitant to take on. The process has three phases. The first one is a feasibility study that typically lasts six months. PADT completed its study last June, evaluating the technical and commercial merit of its idea. The second phase develops the concepts defined in the feasibility study.