The item to be designed is conceived and its novel, unique, or advantageous features are described. A functional diagram is drawn and a preliminary specification is written as the design goal. Circuit design is initiated. The project moves to the next step upon Project Approval. Wider project participation is encouraged upon project approval. Innovatia Assistants are also encouraged to submit their project proposals.

C0        Idea
C1        Specifications
C2        Design Plans (Circuit Diagram)

The detailed circuit and software design is completed. A working prototype is built and the design is refined to meet the specifications, which also are refined. A project document - the project manual - is written. Like the design, the manual is the main project document subject to future change. An example of the kind of manual that has the inclusiveness typical of Innovatia project manuals is the classic red Apple II Reference Manual, January 1978. Design Completion is achieved when no further progress can or need be made before the next step. This is the final step for some Innovatia projects.

D0       ECB layout and order

D1       Prototype build

D2       Core (instrument) circuits function

D3       Prototype (core + μC) functions

D4       Circuit firmware functions

D5       Prototype firmware (circuit + measurement) functions

D6       Prototype manual written

Circuit board layout revision is followed by a build of several units (usually 3 to 5) using the parts and construction similar to that expected of a manufactured unit. Units are tested against specification and refinements are made. The completion of the evaluation step is marked by Prototype Release and usually completes the project for Innovatia. At prototype release, board kits (which also include magnetics parts components to simplify their build by the prototype builder) are made available. Project community refinements then update the design. Optional supplier designware - hardware and software “source code” - is available as a one-time licensed purchase.

E0        ECB update and order

E1        Evaluation units ECB assembly

E2        Evaluation units function

E3        Refinements completed

E4        Manual updated

Refinements from evaluation are incorporated into a more extensive build of 5 to 10 units which are subjected to environmental, compliance (safety, EMC), and field testing. The verification step assures that the product is ready for manufacturing and that all documentation (electrical and mechanical drawings, parts list, specifications, assembly and test files and procedures) has been completed. The final product design is deliverable upon completion of this step and the first manufacturing run is ready to commence. Innovatia optionally includes assistance for this step in projects by contract agreement with a manufacturing product supplier.

Deliverables