The Perfect Match: Finding the Right Industrial Designer
The Perfect Match: Finding the Right Industrial Designer for Your Next SLS Prototype
Most people searching for someone to design their Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) prototypes immediately look for an engineer. But another pool of eligible professionals is waiting to optimize your CAD for SLS printing. Meet the industrial designer.
You Don't Know What You Don't Know
We sat down with Rob Nathan, an award-winning freelance industrial designer with a pedigree from the Art Center and Middlebury College. Working across the US and Canada since 1997, Rob is the perfect wingman to explain why hiring industrial designers for SLS 3D printing deserves a prime spot in your professional dating pool when you need a pristine CAD model for your next big project.
Building the Perfect Profile: What Do Industrial Designers Actually Do?
If you are drawing a blank on what an industrial designer brings to the table, you aren't alone. Rob explains that product designers operate in the sweet spot between engineering and art. They juggle business aspects like market research, usability, aesthetics, and future product line planning. When developing products for specific markets, designers balance function with production costs. These creative professionals touch everything from consumer footwear to complex industrial components.
The Matchup: Industrial Designer vs. Product Engineer
What is the real difference between an industrial designer vs product engineer? Think of it like this. An engineer ensures the math works. An industrial designer ensures the human connection works. Industrial designers receive extensive training in the artistic and aesthetic elements of product design. While they might lack the deep mathematical training of a traditional engineer, many pick up robust mechanical and electrical engineering skills on the job. The roles frequently overlap, and in some cases, these professionals can easily step in for one another.
Optimizing for SLS 3D Printing
So, how do you decide whether to swipe right on an engineer or a designer for your SLS 3D printing project? Rob offers a perfect example. Imagine designing a ski binding. One engineer designs the toe piece. Another handles the heel piece. Both parts function flawlessly. However, the final assembly lacks visual cohesion. An industrial designer steps in to unify the system, ensuring both components look like they belong together while matching the company's brand identity.
This overall product focus is crucial when creating a CAD file for advanced manufacturing. While industrial designers rarely run Finite Element Analysis or structural stress tests, they excel at optimizing a product's form. Today, 3D printing touches almost every design project. Whether you need an SLS prototype printed in durable Nylon 12 for rapid prototyping or you are preparing a complex polyamide part for mass production, an industrial designer ensures your final product looks as good as it performs.
Where to Find Your Next Design Date
Now for the million-dollar question. How do you find and hire an industrial designer to add to your little black book? Surprisingly, you will not find their professional portfolios on Tinder. Rob suggests several excellent alternatives to connect with top-tier freelance industrial design for 3D printing talent. You can start by browsing the Canadian Industrial Design Association (ACID) website, which offers fantastic resources for hiring specialists. If you prefer keeping things close to home, a quick local search for regional product designers often uncovers hidden gems. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) primarily lists larger firms, but you can easily network through those organizations to find available freelancers. Another great matchmaking platform is Coroflot. This website connects freelance designers directly with job opportunities, allowing you to post your project and review portfolios until you find the perfect aesthetic match. Finally, never underestimate the networking power of LinkedIn.
Get Out There and Mingle
The bottom line is simple. You have a massive pool of talented professionals ready to help you create the perfect CAD file for your Selective Laser Sintering prototype design. You have multiple resources to find a designer who aligns with both your technical needs and your budget. Get out there, start swiping, find your perfect match, and bring that CAD baby to life!
Ready to take the next step in your relationship? Contact us for more information, or request a quote and upload your file today!