Introduction to the Prototyping Process

Being able to obtain prototype parts quickly to test for component fit and function can help get your product to market faster than your competition. Adjustments in design, materials, size, shape, assembly, color, manufacturability and strength can be made following the results of your testing and analysis.

Many prototyping processes are available to today’s product design teams. Some prototyping processes utilize traditional manufacturing methods to produce prototypes. Other technologies have emerged and have been improved upon over a relatively short period of time. There are dozens of ways prototypes can be made. As prototyping processes continue to evolve, the product designer is constantly trying to determine what process or technology is best for their unique application.

The purpose of this white paper is to explore the advantages and shortcomings of the major prototyping processes available to today’s designer. This paper will provide detailed process descriptions and discuss material properties of parts produced by each specific prototyping process. In addition, a helpful decision tree will highlight key questions designers must consider when choosing a prototyping process. Ultimately, the goal of this paper is to help you select the best prototyping process for your product development process.

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