Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
What does it really take to turn an idea into a product that can actually be manufactured?
In this episode, we’re joined by Caleb Vainikka, founder of Cove Design — a product development consultancy focused on low-cost prototyping and real-world hardware execution. We dive into the gap between CAD models and real engineering, why manufacturing intent matters from day one, and how a bias toward action can save teams from costly mistakes.
From sketching as a core engineering skill to the realities of tolerances, cost, and production — this episode is a must-watch for anyone building physical products.
Watch the full episode on YouTube
Or listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Follow ProtoPod for more conversations on engineering, manufacturing, and product development.
#hardwaredesign #productdevelopment #engineeringlife #prototyping #custommanufacturing #mechanicalengineering #electronicsdesign #startupentrepreneurs #designformanufacturing #techpodcast #hardwarestartup #innovationinmanufacturing #designconsultation #engineeringpodcast #protospacemfg #protocase #protopod
What does it really take to turn an idea into a product that can actually be manufactured?
In this episode, we’re joined by Caleb Vainikka, founder of Cove Design — a product development consultancy focused on low-cost prototyping and real-world hardware execution. We dive into the gap between CAD models and real engineering, why manufacturing intent matters from day one, and how a bias toward action can save teams from costly mistakes.
From sketching as a core engineering skill to the realities of tolerances, cost, and production — this episode is a must-watch for anyone building physical products.
Watch the full episode on YouTube
Or listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Follow ProtoPod for more conversations on engineering, manufacturing, and product development.
#hardwaredesign #productdevelopment #engineeringlife #prototyping #custommanufacturing #mechanicalengineering #electronicsdesign #startupentrepreneurs #designformanufacturing #techpodcast #hardwarestartup #innovationinmanufacturing #designconsultation #engineeringpodcast #protospacemfg #protocase #protopod
