See how we helped redesign a custom Mazda Miata air scoop—from an initial concept to a refined, 3D-printed prototype—and how DJM Product Design helps bring innovative ideas to life.
Case Study: Mazda Miata Air Scoop –
Interperet Client Sketch and turn into CAD
Drawings for Rapid Prototyping, Design Validation,
final 3D Printed product and fabrication ready files
Project Snapshot
Industry: Automotive
Service: Product Design, CAD Design, Design Refinement, Rapid Prototyping, 3D Printing
Deliverables: 3D Printed Deliverable, Fabrication Ready Files
Goal: Improve an existing air scoop design
CLIENT TESTIMONIAL
“DJM was amazing to work with and extremely professional. Worked with Mathew to design an automotive part for my car and they absolutely delivered. Response was very quick and with basic photos and drawings they were able to bring my product to life. Highly recommend to anyone that has a product idea but lack the resources to bring it to life. I’m already planning additional products and will be leveraging DJM’s expertise.”
– Walter Shin
Mazda Miata Air Scoop Creator
Every Great Product Starts With an Idea
Not every product begins with a blank sheet of paper. Sometimes the best innovations come from improving an existing design.
That’s exactly what happened with this project.
Our client had developed an air scoop for the Mazda Miata designed to improve airflow while driving with the top down. Although the original concept worked, it wasn’t the solution they envisioned. They wanted a design that was simpler to install, more refined, and easier
for customers to use.
That’s where DJM Product Design came in.
The Challenge
The original air scoop relied on clipping into the windshield latch mechanism when the convertible top was down. Also, the original construction was a multi-piece design which involved screwing pieces together. While functional, the client wanted a cleaner, more user-friendly solution.
The goal was straightforward:
- Simplify product from multi-piece construction to one-piece
- Simplify installation
- Eliminate the windshield latch clip
- Improve overall usability
- Maintain a secure fit
- Validate the design before production
Our Process
1. Evaluate the Existing Design
We reviewed the client’s original prototype and identified opportunities to improve the mounting method while maintaining the desired functionality.
2. Redesign in CAD
Our team developed a revised CAD model focused on improving fit, installation, and overall usability.
3. Rapid Prototype
Once the design was finalized, we produced a 3D-printed prototype for real-world testing and evaluation.
4. Iterate
Following testing, small refinements were made before the client continued production independently.
Behind the Design
One of the biggest improvements involved rethinking how the air scoop mounted to the vehicle.
Instead of clipping into the windshield latch, the redesigned version rests securely within the weather-stripping. This simplified installation while creating a cleaner overall design.
Sometimes the smallest engineering changes create the biggest improvements in the customer experience.
Services Used
✔ Product Design
✔ CAD Modeling
✔ Design Refinement
✔ Rapid Prototyping
✔ Design Validation
✔ 3D Printing
The Result
The redesigned air scoop delivered a cleaner installation method while preserving the client’s original vision.
By combining engineering expertise with rapid prototyping, the client was able to confidently move forward with production and continue developing the product independently.
Projects like this demonstrate how thoughtful product development can transform an existing concept into a refined, market-ready solution.
Interested in the Finished Product?
If you’d like to learn more about the Mazda Miata air scoop featured in this project—or purchase one for your own vehicle—you can visit our client’s product page below.
View or Purchase the Air Scoop
Have an Idea for a Product?
Whether you’re starting with a sketch, an existing prototype, or a product that needs refinement, DJM Product Design can help.
Our capabilities include:
- Product Design
- CAD Modeling
- Reverse Engineering
- 3D Scanning
- Rapid Prototyping
- Batch 3D Printing
- Manufacturing-Ready Drawings
From concept to prototype—and beyond—we’re here to help bring your ideas to life.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Whether you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, startup, or established manufacturer, we’d love to hear about your idea.
