|
 |
Prototyping
|
|
Intro >> ZENware – Prod... >> ZENware Help >> Prototyping
Prototype comes from the Greek word Proto- which means ‘first’, and the Greek word Type which meant a ‘figure’ or a ‘model’. Hence the word Prototype means the first thing or the first of its kind. It also means a model for others of its kind.
Having a working model of their product idea is a major target of most inventors. A prototype is important because in this day and age a physical object is a very effective method to prove out the possibility of one’s idea. This tangible object is then something that can be shown to others to demonstrate the value of the idea. Making a prototype confirms that the idea is sound and feasible. Depending on the specific details of the idea, prototypes can range from easy to create - to very difficult. Easier prototypes can be, and often are, created by the inventor, whereas more complex ideas involving hands-on knowledge beyond the inventors skill level either requires an ‘educational period’ or hiring a skilled builder. It might be said that the closer the idea can be approximated in the physical universe the better off the inventor will be when it comes to presenting his product to others.
Prototypes can come in many forms:
a) Pictures – These are simply drawings and sketches of the idea. These can be very detailed however they can’t prove that it will work. These drawings will be valuable during the Patent process.
b) Mock-ups – These are physical representation of the product and don’t necessarily contain the functionality of the invention. These are good to envision what an idea will look like and would be done as a first step in working out the physical details.
c) Computer Model – These are really a high-tech combination of the first two prototype methods. The value in computer models are that they can possibility be used later to assist in manufacturing. Another highly valuable benefit is that a computer model can be created relatively easy by a competent computer operator, and the result can be rendered and printed out in such a way as to make it virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. But this method, as in a) and b) above is still not quite the same thing as a physically correct working product.
d) Functional Model – This is a working model of the product however it lacks the exact final physical characteristics. This type of model is an important requirement for most inventors since it proves that the idea will work. Creating a functional model can be a necessity for many ideas.
e) Full Prototype – This is a functional and physically correct model of the product and very closely approximates what the consumer or target market will be buying.
Here is an article by Matt which describes some of the technical approaches to prototyping.
www.mattyubas.com/invention-articles/mattyubas-rapid-prototyping-choices-for-the-inventor.html
Before you can get into prototyping a good set of product requirements are necessary. These will describe everything that is important about your invention. An ‘idea’ can’t be constructed, an ‘invention’ is has tangible qualities that need to be thoroughly described so that someone can make it. Whatever you mental picture is has to be put on paper for others to see and understand.
www.mattyubas.com/invention-articles/mattyubas-product-requirements.html
Exactly when you should do a prototype in the life cycle of the product should be considered. If the product is very complicated resulting in considerable expense (beyond your budge) it might be wise to hold off on the prototype until you have a good market assessment and are convinced that the product can be successful. If the prototype can be done relatively inexpensively then it should be done as soon as possible to use during the market and consumer analysis.
www.mattyubas.com/invention-info/prototype.html
Zen Engineering
3786 La Crescenta Avenue, Suite 107
Glendale, CA 91208 USA
Phone: (818) 957-7939
Email: info@ZenInRoadsEssentials.com
|
