Design for Manufacture: Where Every Detail Counts, From Handles to Robotics Systems
by Lucas Waldvogel, Business Development Director, Elos Medtech
In the world of medical device manufacturing, precision isn’t just about microns, it’s about foresight. At Elos Medtech, we believe that Design for Manufacture (DfM) is not a phase; it’s a mindset. Whether we’re handling a straightforward plastic handle or a multi-material, high-complexity robotic system, DfM is woven into everything we do.
But what exactly is DfM?
DfM is the process of designing products in such a way that they are easy, efficient, and cost-effective to manufacture, without compromising on quality or function. It’s about aligning engineering intent with manufacturing reality, starting from the very first design sketch. This becomes especially vital in medtech, where complexity is high, tolerances are tight, and quality is non-negotiable.
Simple Projects, Strategic Thinking
We often receive initial concepts from OEMs that are well-thought-out from a clinical perspective but not fully aligned with manufacturing needs. Take a recent example: a plastic handle design submitted by a company without deep plastics expertise. It was clear from the drawing that the part hadn’t been considered in terms of tooling, scalability, or manufacturability.
Rather than pushing back, we did what we do best, collaborated. Our plastics engineers worked directly with the customer’s engineering team to evolve the design into something that met both clinical and manufacturing goals. The result? A part that was not only functional and fit-for-purpose but also optimized for cost-effective production at scale.
Complex Systems, Integrated Expertise
Now contrast that with a high-complexity robotics component, involving multiple metals and plastics. These systems often include dozens of interconnected parts where a small change in one area can dramatically affect others. Here, our cross-functional teams shine.
We bring in experts from plastic injection molding, CNC milling, turning, and more, ensuring every component is evaluated for cost, complexity, and downstream impact. If a machined part is driving up costs, we explore redesigns or material alternatives. If multiple parts create unnecessary assembly steps, we simplify. It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about engineering smarter solutions.
Why it Matters
DfM isn’t just about improving margins. It reduces risk, shortens lead times, and ensures smoother transitions from development to full-scale production. In the medtech industry, where speed to market and reliability can define success, DfM becomes a powerful competitive edge.
Your Partner in Precision
At Elos Medtech, we don’t just manufacture, we partner with our customers and engineer with purpose. Our teams understand not only the materials and processes but also the final application and its clinical environment. That’s what allows us to be more than a supplier. We’re a strategic partner to OEMs, equipped to add value from early development through to full commercialization.
No matter the complexity of your project, we apply the same principle: design with manufacturing in mind, always.
If you want to know more – don’t hesitate to get in touch!