What information do you need to quote?
Usually a short description of the problem plus any sketches, photos, drawings, CAD files, BOMs or part numbers you already have. The clearer the required output is, the easier it is to provide a fixed quote.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Useful answers before you send a project brief.
If your question is specific to a design, component or production problem, send the information you have and it can be scoped directly.
Can you work from a rough sketch or photo?
Yes. Many small CAD and fixture projects can begin from sketches, photos and key dimensions. Missing information or assumptions will be identified during scoping.
What CAD formats can you provide?
Typical neutral outputs include STEP, Parasolid, STL, 3MF and DXF. PDF manufacturing drawings can also be supplied. Any native CAD requirement should be agreed before the job starts.
Can you modify an existing design?
Yes, subject to having suitable source files and confirmation that the customer has the right to use and modify the design.
Do you offer fixed-price work?
Yes. Fixed prices work best where the task and deliverables are clearly defined. Broader or evolving support can be quoted as a time block or retained arrangement.
Can you sign an NDA?
An NDA can be discussed where a project includes confidential customer information or unreleased product details.
Do you manufacture the parts you design?
D&L can provide 3D-printed prototype parts for suitable projects. For other manufacturing processes, files can be prepared for customer-selected suppliers and manufacturing options can be discussed as part of the project.
Can you provide a physical 3D-printed prototype?
Yes. Suitable parts can be supplied as 3D-printed prototypes for fit checks, concept evaluation and design iteration. Pricing depends on size, material, build time, quantity and any finishing requirements.
Can you help with obsolete components?
Yes. Component work can include candidate identification, datasheet comparison, second-source review and a focused validation recommendation. Final release remains with the customer.
Do you provide certification or test-house approval?
The core offer is engineering support, not acting as a certification body. Where specialist testing or formal certification is required, the scope should identify that separately.
How quickly can work start?
That depends on current workload and the size of the job. Small defined tasks are usually easier to schedule quickly than larger design projects. Urgent work can be discussed at enquiry stage.
How do I send confidential files?
For an initial enquiry, avoid sending sensitive design files through the website form. Once the scope is understood, an NDA and a suitable file-transfer method can be agreed before confidential CAD, drawings or source data are shared.
Is the initial enquiry chargeable?
No. A short initial review to understand the problem and decide whether the work is suitable is not charged. Chargeable work only starts after the scope and price or rate are agreed.
Can you work with my existing suppliers?
Yes. Where useful, deliverables can be prepared around the formats and information your existing manufacturer, fabricator, PCB supplier or component distributor needs.
How are revisions handled?
Minor corrections are normally included where appropriate. Design changes or additional iterations outside the agreed scope are discussed before extra work is carried out.