The razor design has entered its second phase, and there are still some details that need optimization.
The main focus is on optimizing the toolpaths and further improving precision. This requires a significant amount of experience and time. Moreover, the OUMO team is accustomed to handling all tasks internally. Therefore, not only at the design level, but also at the production level, we insist on using our own equipment. This approach, however, has led to a prolonged R&D delay, especially since we also need to maintain constant updates for the Shaving Brush line – requiring time and creative inspiration, not just for the products themselves.
During this four-year odyssey, I have to admit that mastering a technology truly takes time.
To produce razors, I taught myself software like UG and Mastercam. Combined with my existing CAD skills, this has allowed me to handle the razor production requirements at the design level.
As I mentioned earlier, our CNC machine sat idle for three years. When we powered it on this year, it hadn't been properly maintained, so it gave us some trouble. Thankfully, we managed to resolve those issues.
Since dedicating myself to razor development this year, I've transformed from a designer into a programmer... oh, and also a machine operator! While our team has excellent programmers, we still lack some experience at the equipment level. Consequently, a huge amount of time has been spent familiarizing ourselves with the machines and tuning parameters – especially toolpath design. This has been a massive undertaking for us.
For a single prototype, we might even need to make 3-5 fixtures and produce over 10 different samples just to calibrate the machines and dial in the settings. Toolpaths, tooling selection, feed rates, spindle speeds, linkage design... it's been incredibly taxing.
The good news is that we have finally produced a highly finished prototype. Besides optimizing the previously mentioned toolpaths and precision, the most critical areas needing refinement now are the logo design and the choice of manufacturing process. Direct engraving and laser engraving offer different effects but also have different costs – we need to make a decision.
Additionally, prototypes for two other razor handles are still being tackled. I want to achieve the exact design I envisioned, but the manufacturing process is overly complex, the machining time is too long, and the costs have increased dramatically. I'm reluctant to compromise, so we still need 2-3 weeks to complete samples for these other two designs.
Before the official launch, we will still conduct a global testing phase. Stay tuned.
Thank you for patiently reading this blog post, which was primarily a big vent session.
Carry