Frequently asked questions
Does AIJU only work for members or for any company? Exclusively for the children’s product sector or for other industries?
AIJU works for all kinds of clients and sectors, provided that our services and projects can provide added value.
The main advantages of membership consist of the economic advantages in the services, various free-of-charge advisory services, access to our different online tools (job exchange, AIJU extranet) and other additional advantages that you can consult in the “Aiju Partner” section of the homepage of our website.
I need a type of service that I cannot find on the website. How can I find out whether AIJU offers it?
Our main services are reflected on our website, where you can consult the list of services or use the search facility. If you cannot locate the required service, consult us. If you are an associate and we do not perform the test you require, we can mediate for you: seeking the best offer, performing all the formalities and monitoring the test until it complies with our quality requirements.
What is your response time for the handling of requests?
Requests are handled with speed and agility. Response times depend on the type of service or product to be dealt with, although they are usually timely in order to guarantee that you receive the corresponding report or service as soon as possible.
When I send a sample for a laboratory test, how do I know whether AIJU has received it?
We have an automated internal procedure. If the request is based on a previously approved quotation, the system sends the client an email with a reminder that we are waiting to receive the samples, if they have not been received. When the samples arrive at our facilities, the accepted quotation is registered, and the system sends an e-mail indicating that the registration has been made and that the service is in progress.
If the request is not based on a quotation, we will monitor the samples awaited according to the requests received and, as with registrations for quotations, the system will automatically send an email communicating the registration and the date of receipt.
I urgently need a prototype. What are the terms?
With the CAD3D file for the part we will provide a quotation in a maximum term of 24 hours. Once you have accepted it the order will be sent for manufacture and, if no modification is required, it will be sent in a term of 3 to 4 days. If the part requires subsequent finishing processes, delivery may take place around 6 to 7 days later.
Which technologies are appropriate for the preparation of my prototypes? Which materials are used?
The technologies we use depend on the use to be given to the part. If you require a functional part, the most appropriate technology is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) which is usually the most economical. With this technique it is possible to use virgin polyamide (PA) or other similar materials reinforced with glass fibre (PA+GF), aluminium (PA+Al) or carbon (PA+C). Also available is polypropylene (PP) or even metallic materials, according to the mechanical properties sought.
If you are looking for a prototype that is similar to the final part, the option of PolyJet Printing (Stratasys) can be chosen. This uses different types of rigid and flexible resins, which can also be combined to achieve the end specifications you need. Another possible option is the obtaining of parts via vacuum casting for a small run of up to 20 or 30 copies, made with thermoset resins and which furthermore can simulate different thermoplastics.
What is the purpose of a market study? How does it really help my company?
To know the target for which the product is intended; to adapt the properties and characteristics of a product or service to the needs and demands of the consumer, and to define the most suitable communication and marketing strategy. It helps you to minimise the risks when launching a new product, because it provides knowledge of the consumer and the competition, which are key to improving returns on your investment.
For further information contact us on consumidorinfantil@aiju.es
What is the cost of a market study or a usability study?
The cost varies according to the sample of consumers or users participating in the study, but AIJU adapts the prices to the needs of the client to facilitate the improvement in the competitiveness of associated companies. Do not hesitate to request a non-binding quotation.
For further information contact us on consumidorinfantil@aiju.es
How can I use technology to sell more? Can technology be used with a traditional toy?
To improve the image of my company, or to provide innovative marketing solutions that make a greater impact on the market and especially to give added value to my products or services to set me apart from the competition.
For further information contact us on ictoys@aiju.es
What type of digital applications does AIJU offer?
From catalogues in mobile format, shops, interactive applications and assembly manuals to augmented reality applications, games and minigames, … For further information contact us on tic@aiju.es
Can my company request customised training from AIJU?
Of course. AIJU is specialised in planning and providing made-to-measure training for companies. Contact us and we will analyse your needs, seek the best teachers and coordinate the whole training process. If you wish, we will also handle the rebate for these courses (depending on the cost, number of trainees and other factors, they may ultimately be free of charge).
Contact us for further information (formacion@aiju.es / 96.555.44.75)
What type of training does AIJU provide and how can I find out about it?
Courses, conferences, congresses, workshops … Both tailor-made and open courses are available. Most are attendance-based but we also offer online courses or attendance via internet (webinar). Most of the contents of these actions are technical and technological in nature, but we provide courses of all kinds according to the needs and demand of companies.
You can consult the full range of training activities we currently offer on http://formacion.aiju.es or directly on formacion@aiju.es and 96 555 44 75. Furthermore, if you fill in and send us the “Request for course information” form on our HOME page, we will send you directly by email the courses programmed by AIJU related to the topics you have indicated.
Can I suggest training actions for AIJU to include in its programme?
Yes. The course planning regularly organised by AIJU is fundamentally based on the training needs put forward by companies. The courses we usually offer have been requested beforehand.
Tell us what kind of training you need and we will try to incorporate it in our programming.
Contact us for further information (formacion@aiju.es / 96 555 44 75)
Where does AIJU give its courses?
AIJU provides attendance-based training wherever it is requested. Courses have been given in a large number of cities in Spain and also in other countries. Most attendance-based courses are given at the facilities of AIJU (Ibi-Alicante) but training actions are also provided in other places, if companies request this. Furthermore, customised training is usually provided at the facilities of the company requesting the training. In addition, AIJU offers online courses, which can be taken in any location and with totally flexible and customised timetables.
Contact us for further information (formacion@aiju.es / 96 555 44 75)
Does AIJU provide training that is eligible for rebate?
Many of the courses given by AIJU are eligible for rebate via the credits of the State Foundation for Employment Training. AIJU can help you calculate your credit, provide you with information on aid programmes of this type, handle your rebates, etc. Companies have an annual credit to spend on the training of their employees, which they can access via rebates in their Social Security payments, once the training activities have been carried out.
Contact us for further information (formacion@aiju.es / 96 555 44 75)
Can AIJU advise me in the search for financing to develop new products or processes?
Yes, the Research Results Transfer Office (OTRI) of AIJU can advise you on the whole search process and management of funding applications, both national and international, aimed at the development of new products or processes.
As an agent of the PIDI network (a network created to offer information and advisory services to companies and entrepreneurs on public aid for R&D&I) AIJU acts as an information point, providing specialised advisory services to assist you in the search for funding to implement your R&D&I ideas.
Technical personnel of the Institute will attend to all your consultations (local, regional, national and international) by internet, telephone or in person.
Further information is available via the AIJU website (https://pidi.cdti.es/CanalWeb/Canal) or by e-mail (futurebusiness@aiju.es)
I need a technological partner for the development of a new project. Can AIJU help me?
Yes. AIJU has an extensive database which can be used to search for a partner interested in a specific product or to cooperate in an R&D&I project.
Contact us for further information (futurebusiness@aiju.es)
Does AIJU have a tool to facilitate the management of innovation projects in my company?
Yes, AIJU has a project management tool that provides the following benefits for your organisation:
Know the status of your projects in real time.
Know whether your projects are meeting deadlines.
know the profit margin and costs of your projects.
AIJU can provide information or specific access to the tool to enable you to evaluate its usefulness to your company.
Contact us for further information (calidad@aiju.es)
Can AIJU help me to find out the "Environmental profile" of my products and thus be aware of their impact on the environment?
Yes, by carrying out a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of a product and/or service at AIJU we can determine the stages of the life cycle during which the product has an impact on the environment and advise you in this respect.
Contact us for further information (medioambiente@aiju.es)
What procedure should I follow to request a test in AIJU and how much does it cost?
The first thing to do is to request a non-binding quotation from AIJU. For this, previous information is necessary, such as the type of tests requested, the number and description of the samples, as well as formal details of the company. This quotation is informative and has a validity of 2 months.
Once the quotation has been accepted, you will need to send the required samples for the performance of the test. Companies that do not belong to AIJU must pay 50% of the cost of the service in advance.
AIJU can help you from the instant your company has an idea or concept, a material, a prototype or the finished product, both in the applicable tests and in their preliminary or final assessment.
The laboratory technicians are at your disposal to clarify any doubts you may have.
AIJU offers its extranet service to enable clients to know the status of their tests online.
What documentation will I receive as a result of the tests requested?
AIJU issues a test report which provides details relating to the description of the sample, tests performed, test results, photographs (if applicable), dates, signatures of the technicians responsible, etc.
The reports issued within the setting of the ENAC accreditations of AIJU will also be accompanied by the corresponding ENAC logo. The accreditation provides recognition supported by the competent body. The validity of the reports is subject to regulatory changes or changes to the characteristics of the samples tested.
Is AIJU an accredited laboratory for the performance of tests on children’s products? What is your experience with these products?
AIJU has been accredited for safety tests on toys since 1989 and was the first laboratory to be accredited by ENAC for the performance of tests of this type.
Furthermore, the laboratory has continued to increase its accreditations to include “childcare items”, “playgrounds: play equipment and surfaces” and “food contact materials”.
In addition, it is an Inspection Entity accredited by ENAC for “Playgrounds” and its laboratory has been recognised by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) of the United States since 2010, for the performance of mechanical and chemical tests on children’s products. You can consult the accreditations of AIJU on www.enac.es. AIJU has extensive experience in children’s safety, accumulated over more than 25 years.
Which tests do I need to perform to ensure that my product meets requirements?
The requirements with which a product must comply may be due to the existence of regulations or applicable legislation or to the requisites of customers.
AIJU can help you to comply with these legislative or customer requirements.
Can AIJU inspect the play areas of my local authority, school, residential complex, etc.?
AIJU has a team of playground inspectors, accredited by ENAC, to make the necessary inspections pursuant to the EN 1176 and EN 1177 regulations in force. AIJU issues certificates of compliance for the areas inspected. The inspectors can travel anywhere in Spain and abroad.
Ask for a non-binding quotation.
How does AIJU guarantee the confidentiality of the information that my company provides?
AIJU guarantees the total confidentiality of all the information you share with us (ideas, designs, product in all its stages of development, etc.) whether or not it is specified in a legal agreement.
All the personnel of AIJU and the providers of external services sign a confidentiality commitment. All the samples received in AIJU for the performance of tests are kept in restricted areas. Access to these areas is controlled and the samples cannot be seen by visitors. Your samples will only be visible during institutional and other relevant visits if you authorise this.
Is it compulsory to put the CE mark on my product? What does it mean? Do I need to apply for it from a specific organisation?
Not all products need to carry the CE mark, only those that belong to the categories contemplated in the European directives that regulate them. This is the case of toys and other products such as electronic equipment, health products, personal protective equipment, etc. No toy may be marketed if it does not bear the CE mark.
Other children’s products such as childcare items or playground equipment do not need to include this mark (except in the case of electrical items which are subject to a CE marking directive).
The CE mark indicates that the product conforms to EU legislation and therefore permits its free circulation within the European market. When placing the CE mark on a product, the manufacturer declares, under its exclusive liability, that the product complies with all the legal requirements for the CE mark, which means that it can be sold in the European Economic Area. The mark should be placed before the product is marketed and made available. Member States cannot restrict the marketing and availability of products that bear the CE mark, except in proven cases of non-conformity of the product in question.
The CE mark is not requested from any organisation, it is the actual manufacturer or its authorised representative that applies the CE mark upon completion of the conformity assessment procedure.
AIJU is a notified body for the granting of EC-type examination certificates pursuant to Directive 2009/48/EC on toys, to ensure that your products meet the necessary requirements.