“You can have brilliant ideas, but if you can’t get them across, your ideas won’t get you anywhere.” – Lee Iacocca
If you have recently been hit with an idea that you feel has commercial value and you want to take this idea one step further and build a business around it you might be asking yourself this crucial question…”Do I need a prototype?” Although you are not required to have a prototype to file a patent application, having a prototype simplifies this process and makes the process of going from an idea to a tangible business much easier.
What is a prototype? A prototype is a depiction, example or even a finished and functioning product. You need one if you intend to test your idea, to improve your product and its component parts and ultimately to show or demonstrate it to investors, manufacturers or buyers for example.
Why should I prototype my idea? Prototyping gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your idea to potential buyers, get feedback from test groups and refine your product design. A prototype is almost seen as a necessity these days when you are trying to obtain funding from investors. A tangible object that investors can see function provides a better understanding of the product and its value.
It is also important to note that prototyping lets you finalize the best design possible before sending your product off to be manufactured. You will undoubtedly find flaws in your initial design and having a prototype lets you work out all of these kinks beforehand.
How much does a prototype cost? The answer to this question depends on a number of different factors, such as: size, components and complexity. To get a better idea of what your specific idea would cost to prototype we suggest that you find a firm that you are comfortable with, potentially has experience in the industry you would be going into and really understands your vision for the product to get a quote.
*If you would like to chat with us further about prototyping, the product development process or obtain a prototyping quote from us please contact us at info@3d-innovations.com
Additional information about prototyping can be found in the links below:
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3D Innovations is a full service 3D Engineering/Design company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.
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