Types of Prototype: Definition And Classification

In this article, we will introduce the classification of prototypes based on their functionality, fidelity, fabrication methods, and industry applications. First, let's begin with a brief overview of the basic definition of prototypes.

What is Prototype?

A prototype is typically one or several samples made based on user-provided drawings, without the use of molds, used to check the appearance or structural rationality.

Prototypes are generally produced in small quantities with short production cycles and minimal resource consumption. They allow for quick identification of design flaws and improvement of production methods, thereby providing sufficient basis for finalizing product design and mass production.

Next, we will proceed with an introduction starting from the classification of prototypes based on their functionality.

Classification Based on Function

Concept Prototype

Concept Prototype is a simplified prototype used to express product concepts, mainly in the form of simple sketches, text descriptions, flowcharts and other forms of presentation, used to convey the design concept of the product. Concept prototypes do not require complex visual effects or interaction design, and can be quickly created and modified, with great flexibility.

Visual Prototype

Visual prototypes, also known as appearance prototypes, place more emphasis on aesthetics than functionality. This prototype is similar to the actual product in terms of look, material, size and feel, but is not used for practical purposes. The main purpose of this prototype is to reflect a high degree of visual similarity to the final product, which allows the user to experience the visual style of the product. This type of prototype is often used in marketing, sales promotion, and product reviews can also be used to conduct

Functional Prototype

Functional prototype is mainly used to test the actual function of the product prototype, unlike the visual prototype, the functional prototype and the final actual product of the highest degree of similarity. Functional prototype is a key part of product development, it can verify the core functions and interaction logic of the product, avoid misunderstanding and deviation, and improve the efficiency of research and development.

Classification Based on Fidelity

High-fidelity Prototype

A high-fidelity prototype can also be called a product demo, which is as close to the final product as possible. It can accurately present the appearance and function of the product, and is consistent with the real product in visual and interactive experience, providing users with the most realistic experience and helping product iteration and upgrading. Making a high-fidelity prototype requires more time and effort, and is costly. Compared with other prototypes, this prototype contains a lot of details and is difficult to modify.

Low-fidelity Prototype

A low-fidelity prototype, also called a wireframe, is a simple and quick way to convert high-level design concepts into tangible, testable objects. It is mainly used to check and test product functions rather than the visual appearance of the product. It is easy to make and modify quickly, and the cost is relatively low to adjust and optimize the product.

Classification Based on Production Method

3D Printing Prototype

3D printing prototype is an additive manufacturing prototype suitable for complex geometric shapes and rapid manufacturing, with high production efficiency. The main processing technologies are:

FDM: Using hot melt materials to stack layer by layer - low-cost plastic part prototype;

SLS: Using laser sintering powder material to form - prototype parts made of nylon;

ALS: Using photosensitive resin to solidify under ultraviolet light - plastic part prototype with excellent surface finish;

SLM: Melting metal powder to build - metal part prototype of titanium or steel.

CNC Machining Prototype

CNC machining prototype is a subtractive manufacturing prototype suitable for high-precision manufacturing prototypes of metal and plastic materials, with short turnaround time for small batches. The main processing technologies are:

Fraisage CNC - various high-precision metal and plastic part prototypes;

Tournage CNC - various cylindrical part prototypes;

Meulage CNC - various high-precision and surface finish prototypes;

EDM - prototypes for processing deep grooves and sharp corners.

Classification Based on Industry

Prototype automobile

Automotive prototypes are essential stages in automotive development. With increasing competition in the automotive market, manufacturers actively seek more environmentally friendly, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing products to meet current market demands. Automotive manufacturers rely on prototype designs to properly test automotive components, ensuring these parts can be mass-produced cost-effectively.

Prototype de dispositif médical

Medical device prototypes are models used to validate and test conceptual designs of medical devices. The speed of prototype design and development is crucial throughout the product launch process. Medical device prototypes help identify and correct design flaws early, ensuring the final medical devices function properly. These prototypes are commonly used for prototypes such as ECG machines, respirators, glucometers, and syringes.

Prototype électronique

Building functional electronics prototypes is the first step in understanding electronic prototype design and bringing you closer to the market. These prototypes are primarily used to verify and validate the functionality of electronic products, combining hardware and software design with custom printed circuit boards (PCBs). They help engineers validate design concepts, optimize performance, reduce risks, and ultimately enhance the quality and reliability of the final product.

FAQ

Why Do We Need to Prototype?

Prototypes serve as a bridge from ideas to reality, transforming designers' concepts from abstract ideas to tangible forms. They validate the feasibility of products and allow designers to discover flaws that may not be apparent on drawings during prototype fabrication. This process helps identify shortcomings in products, enabling design optimization and reducing research and development costs.

How to Create A Prototype？

Here are the 5 main steps to creating a prototype: start with a product vision, create a sketch or use computer aided design (CAD), make a proof of concept, make a physical prototype and test the prototype. For more information about creating a prototype, you can read this blog- How to create a prototype

Tips for Creating A Prototype

Here are some tips for creating a prototype: understand the purpose of the prototype, provide accurate representation of parts, consult an intellectual property lawyer, sign confidentiality agreements with collaborators,find cost-effective methods, test and iterate.

How Do You Choose A Prototype?

Firstly, you need to clarify your goals, whether you aim to showcase aesthetic or functional performance. Secondly, consider the type of prototype: low-fidelity, suitable for early brainstorming and user feedback, or high-fidelity, nearly identical to the final product, or another type. Next, factor in practical considerations such as time, cost, and manufacturing complexity. Finally, validate and test your prototype, integrating user feedback to identify flaws for optimization.

What is the Difference Between High Fidelity and Low Fidelity?

Low-fidelity prototypes are often represented by sketches, wireframes, or simple mockups such as icons and cards, without detailed visual or interactive design. On the other hand, high-fidelity prototypes are more precise and detailed, closely resembling the final product with high fidelity.

Conclusion

This concludes the entire content of this blog. We hope this article helps you better understand these 10 different types of prototypes. For more knowledge about prototypes, please follow our blog, where we regularly update with more information.

Additionally, if you are looking for a rapid prototyping manufacturer, DEK would be your best partner. We have extensive experience and professional skills in prototype manufacturing, capable of helping you solve most design issues. Contactez nous to start your new project!