How to Create the Perfect Prototype for Your First Production Line

Every great product has to start somewhere, and in nearly all cases, that somewhere is a prototype. Whether you are planning to make a toy, an office item, or something even more complex, a prototype will provide the pattern for the production line to follow. While creating a prototype may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Here is a simple guide to help you create the perfect prototype. 

Make a Plan 

Every good prototype begins with an idea that is then put into writing. Before you begin modeling a three-dimensional mock-up of your product, it’s a good idea to draw it in two dimensions first. Even if you’re not an artist, a basic sketch of what you want the end product to look like can help save you time and frustration once you begin the process of bringing your creation to life. 

Put it Together 

Once you have drawings of your prototype, the real fun of actually modeling that prototype begins. This “rough draft” doesn’t have to be fancy and can utilize materials you have laying around your house. The idea here is to try and get the basic shape and operation of the prototype in place to try and see if your idea is even feasible to bring into reality. Of course, a prototype made of wood, string, and pipe cleaners would be fairly difficult to utilize for a production line, so your next step is to set your prototype into stone, or, more accurately, plastic. 

Find the Supplies 

The process of actually casting your prototype is more involved than the previous steps. You’ll need to find suppliers for the materials that are necessary to move forward, including a quality polyurethane casting material supplier to ensure your prototype is made well from high-quality materials. You’ll also need to seek out a company to make a mold for your prototype, which is becoming easier and easier with the rise of 3D printers and other similar technology. Once you have your mold and supplies in hand, then, it’s time to make the magic happen. 

Create the Prototype 

When you put the castable polyurethane in the mold, your journey is almost complete. Once the material has had a chance to harden, you will be left with a prototype that can be copied by a production line to make products that you can sell. That means it’s important to take your time during this step to ensure you end up with a perfect finished product that will effectively capture your original vision in a product that can be mass-marketed. 

Get Feedback 

Throughout the design and casting process, it’s vital that you solicit feedback on your prototype. Depending on the type of product you’re working on, you may need to seek feedback from mechanical engineers, culinary experts, parents of children, or children themselves. While your idea may make sense in your mind, it’s important that it makes sense and is determined to be workable by other parties who aren’t biased. This gives you the best chance of creating a product that will be achievable and marketable as your dreams become a reality.