Prototype design is the process involved in turning a concept into an original model. Once an inventor has worked out the flaws and knows what the invention will need to function, the design process can began. The type and purpose of the prototype often depends on the circumstances. Designing a prototype is often referred to as evolutionary. Many prototype design projects start out as simply as building a rough mock-up of the product using cardboard, plastic, and tape. More advance designs construct models that are functional, virtual, or 3-D prototypes.
Designers, engineers and product development professionals need to understand the weaknesses, and restrictions of their designs, as well as its strengths. Prototype models not only bring product designs to life, but also help others to better evaluate the creation. Models are intended to give people the information they need to make decisions about the product. Many prototype designers try to replicate the properties and characteristics of the intended design to the best of their ability. However, even the best prototypes will compromise on the final production design.
