4 Most Popular Types of Prototyping and How They Work

Have you ever designed or considered designing an object or idea? Bringing a unique product into the world isn’t easy. Fixing problem after problem before the final release is torture for many, but a must to avoid failure.

There’s one surefire way to dodge unwelcome design surprises after release: making and testing prototypes. There are four main types of prototyping used to perfect works in progress.

If you’re wondering, “What is prototyping and how does it work?”, this is the article you need. Read on for information about these key prototyping methods.

1. 3D Prototyping

3D prototyping helps product designers tweak works without wasting money and time. Building exact models use costly materials but this method doesn’t. Some 3D printers even recycle scrap plastic that may be good for replicas.

Some designers speed up the process with rapid 3D printing. It relieves time-pressed inventors with hard deadlines. All they need to do is click here for the fast track to the next design phase.

3D printing meticulous and large-scale prototypes may take longer. Yet, designers ordering those tend to be wealthy companies that can afford flexible deadlines.

Even for those titans, putting their wealth into quality goods is key. Saving money with plastic models is a no-brainer.

2. Digital Prototyping

Digital prototypers work with designers to make dynamic, 3D, digital renderings. A digital prototype is interactive and simulates real-life testing.

This is great in industries making pricey products. Take an automaker, for example. It could use a digital prototype instead of building a real car.

It would show the car’s exterior, interior, and mechanical parts. The company could set the engine to a certain horsepower, add certain tires, and make other tweaks before “driving.”

3. Video Prototyping

Video prototyping animates stories about new products and ideas. It’s ideal for concept inventors because it shows human experiences. Other prototypes often show objects in vacuums and aren’t good for producing concepts.

Though a video prototype follows a story, it’s not for entertainment. Chances are good you’ll see little color or detail. Most video prototypes show a product in its most basic state.

Video and digital prototyping are both simulated tests with two main differences. Digital prototype doesn’t have a story and most involve no people. On the other hand, the story and human element are the main features of a video prototype.

4. Evolutionary Prototyping

Evolutionary prototyping is most often used in software development. An evolutionary prototype runs products in real-time. Developers hire clients to test the software through normal use.

It’s “evolutionary” because designers update the software throughout the test period. The trial users point out bugs for the product designer to fix before the official release. Creators evolve their products as they adjust and add features.

The phase may last years with hopes of reaching 0 errors. 

Types of Prototyping and Other Technology Facts You Crave

After learning the main types of prototyping, you can pick the one best for your next project. Your invention will be better for it.

Pick up more helpful and productive technology information on this very site. Click on another article to boost your technological know-how.