Build Confidence Before Full Production
At Shape Optics, we understand that selecting a new supplier for precision optical components requires confidence and trust. To help customers validate product quality before committing to full-scale production, we offer a First Article Inspection (FAI) program.
Our FAI process allows customers to evaluate production-quality parts before the remaining order is released for manufacturing, reducing risk while ensuring compliance with agreed specifications.
What Is First Article Inspection (FAI)?
First Article Inspection (FAI) is a quality verification process performed on initial production units before full-scale manufacturing begins.
The purpose of FAI is to confirm that the product meets the specifications defined during the quotation and design review stages. Once the FAI process begins, the design and specifications must remain unchanged to ensure a fair and accurate evaluation.
How the FAI Process Works
1. Place a Production Order
Customers place a production order based on the agreed quotation and specifications.
2. Receive FAI Samples
Shape Optics manufactures and delivers an agreed quantity of FAI units for evaluation and testing.
3. Customer Evaluation
Customers have up to 30 days from receipt of the FAI units to perform dimensional, optical, mechanical, and functional inspections.
4. Approval for Production
Upon approval of the FAI units, production of the remaining quantity proceeds according to the confirmed manufacturing schedule.
Key Benefits of Our FAI Program
Reduce Development Costs
Customers can evaluate production-quality parts without the need for costly pilot builds or low-volume prototype pricing.
Verify Product Performance
FAI samples are manufactured using the same processes, materials, and quality standards intended for production.
Minimize Project Risk
The evaluation period allows customers to confirm compliance before full production proceeds.
Accelerate Production Release
Once approval is received, manufacturing can continue immediately without additional qualification stages.
Important Conditions
- FAI applies only to finalized and approved designs.
- No specification changes are permitted during the FAI evaluation process.
- Any design, drawing, material, coating, or specification changes requested after FAI commencement may require re-quotation and schedule revision.
- Additional costs resulting from specification changes will be the responsibility of the customer.
Example Scenario
Traditional Pilot Build
- 5 units × USD 2,000 = USD 10,000
Production Order with FAI
- 100 units × USD 350 = USD 35,000
Instead of purchasing a small pilot batch at prototype pricing, the customer places the production order and receives an agreed quantity of FAI units for evaluation.
After successful approval, Shape Optics proceeds with production of the remaining quantity according to the agreed schedule.
This approach enables customers to evaluate production-quality parts while benefiting from production-level pricing.
Why Choose Shape Optics?
- Precision optical manufacturing expertise
- Comprehensive dimensional and optical quality control
- Production-quality verification before volume release
- Transparent communication throughout the project
- Global support for industrial, aerospace, defense, medical, and imaging applications
Our Commitment
At Shape Optics, quality and customer confidence are at the center of everything we do. Our First Article Inspection (FAI) program is designed to provide transparency, reduce risk, and ensure that every customer can move forward with confidence before full-scale production begins.
Contact our team today to discuss how our FAI process can support your next optical manufacturing project.
