Creating a product prototype can increase your chances of getting funding from investors, obtaining a patent on a new invention or assist you in pitching your idea to your boss. These three steps can help you get started creating your prototype.
1. Sketch Your Concept
Drawing your concept before you attempt to build your prototype can help you visualize what your finished product will look like. You can sketch out your idea on paper or use digital drawing software. It can be useful to make some quick sketches on paper to flesh out your idea and then use those sketches to make a more detailed digital drawing that can be useful if you need to present your idea to someone else on paper before you build the prototype.
2. Build a Digital Prototype
Once you have your prototype sketched out, you can create a 3D model of it using computer software. Digital modeling software, such as AutoCAD, allows you to rotate and view your model from any angle and animate it so you can see what it looks like in motion. Some software programs can even produce a photorealistic model that can give you a realistic approximation of what your physical prototype will look like. If you lack experience using such tools, you can utilize the services of a professional graphic or prototype designer.
3. Build a Physical Prototype
Your next step is to use your 3D model to build a physical prototype. For some applications, you may want to use 3D printing or engineering support Essex MA, services to rapidly build out your prototype. You may need to build several prototypes as you find and correct design flaws.
Whether you hire a professional prototype designer or do the project yourself, building a prototype is a vital step in getting your design idea realized. These three steps can help you get the process started.