Case study in rapid product design and development

Abstract

This thesis explores a new strategy in developing products quickly, cheaply and efficiently, with the hopes to redefine the paradigms behind the product design process. This was carried out through the development of the product "flatRat", a commemorative MIT novelty ring. With this product, we explored different prototyping techniques, manufacturing processes, and business strategies with the hope to optimize the process for others to carry out similar projects. This thesis summarizes a selection of work from the development of flatRat from concept generation to final product sales. The ultimate goal of this project was to bring a product to life with limited resources. From the project's beginning in June, 2009 to its capstone in February, 2011, flatRat was designed and developed fully into a marketable product followed by an initial manufacturing run of 500 units. These were sold to MIT's Class of 2013 Ring Committee and given away to attendants of the "Ring Premiere" Ceremony on February 11, 2011. This product is currently being developed further to be sold at the MIT Museum and Campus Bookstore. The process developed around this product is currently being implemented at Olin College of Engineering under Dr. Lawrence Neeley.