At Polyhistor International, we’ve supported the defense sector for more than 20 years, giving us a deep understanding of what our partners in this space need most. Because proper design can be so critical to a project’s timeline, many of our defense manufacturing clients especially value our in-house design capabilities. These services combine prototyping expertise, product development, and design for manufacturing (DFM) insight.
Over the years, our defense work has taken us around the globe, from international military bases to far-flung proving grounds. We’ve even had to build late-night mockups in hotel rooms to test on military vehicles the next day. No matter the setting, we bring the same problem-solving mindset and commitment to innovation.
Two Types of Design Support for Defense Manufacturing
Our defense design typically falls into two groups:
- Product development services for customers who need mechanical engineering expertise. These partners are often strong in electrical design but rely on us to handle aspects like mechanical integration.
- DFM insight before manufacturing services. These customers typically have established designs, but they’re seeking our input to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness before leveraging our CNC machining services.
We’re equally equipped to support both. Whether you need a design refined for manufacturability or full mechanical engineering assistance, we help ensure every part is ready for production.
Product Development Services
In development services, we typically enter early in the design phase. We’re able to not only help design for functionality; we can also optimize DFM for every step from concept to prototype to production. For example, we’re currently working with a defense client more than two years away from planned production, giving us time to refine designs and solve potential issues before scaling up.
By integrating DFM principles early, we avoid potentially costly redesigns later in the process. A small design choice that may seem unimportant in prototyping can dramatically affect production costs when multiplied across large quantities.
DFM Insight
Even when we don’t help create the original design, our engineering team offers valuable insight to bridge the gap between design intent and manufacturability. We frequently suggest simple design adjustments that can lead to significant cost and time savings.
These partners will typically be leveraging our machining services, whether it’s complete prototype services or high-volume CNC machining. Our blend of machining expertise and defense knowledge allows us to meet all your project requirements.
How We Thrive in Defense Manufacturing
We have a clear understanding of the needs and priorities of the defense industry. Here’s how we’re able to meet those demands:
Proven Experience Across Defense Applications
With over 20 years in defense manufacturing, we’ve worked across multiple branches of the military and many types of applications. We’ve even integrated mechanical systems into nearly every commissioned vehicle in the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.
Creative Solutions for Faster Production
Our manufacturing capabilities allow us to handle nearly any project, but our engineering expertise sets us apart. For instance, our president, Peter Schönning, has been involved in 3D printing since 2001, long before it entered widespread use. But his long experience in prototyping has taught him that sometimes simple hands-on methods like carving a foam mockup can achieve faster results and help you stay on budget.
Agile Processes for Rapid Iteration
Every minute counts in the prototyping stage. Our design and manufacturing teams work side by side, enabling immediate feedback and adjustments. Most design houses lack our machining capabilities, while a few machine shops have the same engineering depth. At Polyhistor, a new design change can move from CAD to the machine in minutes.
Partner With Polyhistor for Defense Design
Whether you need DFM guidance or an end-to-end partner for product design services, Polyhistor has the expertise to help with your defense manufacturing. Our flexible and integrated approach makes us a perfect ally for a wide range of defense projects.
Request a quote today and see how our expert can help you optimize your design and manufacture your next project!