“A prototype is an early sample, model, or release of a product built to test a concept or process, or to act as a thing to be replicated or learned from.” According to Wikipedia.
There are several reasons to build a prototype such as it looks at your idea from another viewpoint, considers plenty of solution, works with complete details, talks to developers and investors, test with potential buyers/users, talks benefits of prototyping, does not need specific skills, low price and short development time. But how do you take something you have only imagined, or perhaps sketched, and make it a truth. There are several steps on “How to get a prototype made”.
- Make A Diagram Or Sketch
Write out your idea of product on a paper. If you consider yourself to be a bad painter, do not let that stop you. Keep in mind that a paper prototype is about presenting the idea in a simplified way rather than making beautiful art. So, sketch what your product will look like and use it to decide upon what features are essential to your design. Must pick a few features that let you design function and reduce the number of costly extras. Segregate all the features into 3 categories: 1’) Need to have, 2) Good to have and 3) Not needed. If you have CAD (computer-aided design) software and know how to use it, then make a CAD drawing too.
- Create A Virtual Prototype
Now it’s time to transfer your concept diagram on a 3D modeling software. This is because it will help you visualize the product better. You can use a number of tools to create simple 3D models, and one such tool is Autodesk 123D.
- Make A Handmade Version
For this, you can use a variety of things like foam, metal, wood or any other materials you are comfortable with. A version of your invention will let you gauge the size as well as form better than a simple line drawing. Keep in mind that the handmade version doesn’t have to look good, but must look like and function like your product. For physical items, go for an expensive modeling product like Shapelock (a great useful polycaprolactone plastic) while look for the third-party programming archives for electronic products and to save time on image design and coding.
Find A Reliable Manufacturer
If you have made your working prototype, now you’re ready to apply for a patent but take the extra step of getting a popular manufacturer that can produce your product at the best price. Remember, if your idea is going to be moneymaking, you need to be able to produce it at a low cost so that you can cover expenses without cutting far into your profits.
Manufacturers that provide free samples as well as 2-D or 3-D printing that can help you cut costs in testing and production phases. So, go to several suppliers and manufacturers to get clear estimates, so you can find out the most cost-efficient materials and techniques for putting your prototype into reality.
