Frequently asked questions
Do I need CAD?
No. Describe the idea in plain language and add any sketches or photos you have. If a project needs CAD, qualified engineering partners create it as part of a quoted scope.
Who owns my idea?
You do. Your submissions are private by default and we don't use them to train AI models or show them to other customers. Commissioned deliverables transfer to you under the final terms, which are still being reviewed by our attorneys. Read the IP & confidentiality page for details.
Can you build electronics?
Yes, through partners. We can outline an electronics architecture and candidate components, then partners handle schematic, PCB layout, firmware, assembly and testing. We don't order a circuit board from an illustration: production needs a validated schematic, layout, Gerbers, BOM and review.
What is included?
Each package lists what it includes on the pricing page. Concept Studio covers intake review, a concept brief, illustrated concepts, risk notes and one revision round. Physical prototypes are scoped and quoted individually, with deliverables and exclusions written down before work starts.
What if parts cost more?
Additional costs are submitted to you for approval before they're incurred, as a written change order. If you decline, we offer alternatives, rescope, or stop under the agreed cancellation terms. You're never charged for overruns you didn't approve.
Is the model manufacturing-ready?
Not at the concept stage. Concept images and 3D views are illustrations to help you decide. Manufacturing-ready files come from engineering work in a quoted development or prototype scope, and we label which is which.
Still wondering about something? Email contact@shovelsai.com.