First Article Inspection Policy

At Shape Optics, we confidently stand behind the exceptional quality of our optical products. We understand that partnering with a new supplier often involves uncertainty, especially for high-precision optical components. To support a seamless and reassuring purchasing experience, we offer a comprehensive First Article Inspection (FAI) service, designed to verify product quality before you commit to larger-volume production.

Our FAI policy reflects our commitment to transparency, customer confidence, and world-class optical engineering.

 

Overview of the First Article Inspection (FAI) Process

FAI is an essential service for clients evaluating Shape Optics as a secondary supplier or for customers aiming to secure competitive production pricing through bulk orders. This inspection applies strictly to fully completed and finalized designs. No specification changes are allowed during or after the FAI stage to ensure that the inspection focuses solely on quality verification.

 

Key Features of FAI

  • Skip costly pilot builds
    FAI allows clients to proceed directly to bulk-order pricing, bypassing higher-cost small pilot batches.

  • 30-day evaluation window
    After receiving the FAI units, clients have 30 days to perform all dimensional, optical, and functional inspections to confirm compliance with specifications agreed upon during the RFQ/quotation stage.

  • Risk-free approval process
    If the FAI samples do not meet acceptance criteria, the client may cancel the full order, and a credit or full refund will be issued.

  • Smooth production release
    Upon FAI approval within the 30-day window, Shape Optics will immediately proceed with production and deliver according to the confirmed schedule.

 

Specifications and Cost Considerations

  • No specification changes are permitted once the FAI process begins.
  • Any changes requested after FAI evaluation will require a revised quotation, and all additional costs will be borne by the client.

 

Illustrative Example

A customer considering two options:

Option 1: Pilot Build

5 units × USD 2,000 each = USD 10,000

Option 2: Production Build

100 units × USD 350 each = USD 35,000

Under our FAI policy, the customer may place the full order of 100 units at USD 350 each. Shape Optics will first deliver 5 (or more) FAI units for verification.

  • If the FAI is approved → the remaining units are produced and delivered.
  • If the FAI fails → a full refund or credit will be issued.

This ensures that clients evaluate real production-cost samples rather than paying inflated pilot build prices.

 

Advantages of Choosing FAI with Shape Optics

  • Significant cost savings by eliminating high pilot build fees
  • Production-level quality verification at production pricing
  • Zero financial risk throughout the evaluation period
  • Confidence and assurance before committing to full-scale manufacturing
  • Clear, transparent process aligned with high-precision optical industry practices

Our FAI policy is designed specifically to provide peace of mind, protect your investment, and build long-term trust.

 

Our Commitment

Shape Optics is dedicated to delivering superior optical solutions and ensuring that every customer can make informed, confident, and risk-free purchasing decisions. Our First Article Inspection (FAI) Policy is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction.