When this applies
- Tooling lead time exceeds your launch date
- Design changes are still likely
- You need market feedback before scaling
- Demand is uncertain and tooling risk is high
Common bridge routes
The right bridge depends on the eventual production process. The aim is parts that behave like production parts, made by a method that tolerates change.
- Machined from solid instead of cast or moulded
- Soft or aluminium tooling instead of hardened steel
- Fabricated and welded instead of stamped
- Additive manufacturing for non-structural components
Mind the differences that matter
Bridge parts are rarely identical to production parts. Material grain, surface texture, draft and internal structure can differ, which matters for qualification and for any testing you intend to carry forward. Agree with the supplier which properties must match and which may differ.
Plan the exit before you start
Set the quantity or date at which bridge production stops, and make sure the production-tooling design accounts for what the bridge parts taught you. A bridge with no end date quietly becomes an expensive permanent arrangement.
RFQ checklist
Include these in your request and suppliers can quote without a round of questions.
- Bridge quantity and the date production tooling lands
- Intended production process for the final part
- Which properties must match production parts
- Likelihood of design change during the bridge
- Whether the same supplier will run production