Prototypes
D2M has a vast range of previous prototyping experience. Prototypes we have built include: handheld electronic products; thermoelectric cooling devices; textile based products; baby equipment; outdoor products and even an underwater video camera with built in propulsion.
Watch the video to understand more about how we help our client create, test and refine prototypes of their ideas and see the links below for more details about the specific prototyping services we offer.
The Mark 1 prototype could be any or a combination of the following: a plastic, textile, metal, wood, mechanical or electronics prototype. It may focus on proving one or both of the following: form or function. Typically, this prototype would not be a visually attractive prototype!
This type of prototype will largely be built from bespoke parts from the agreed CAD model. ‘Off the shelf’ parts will be used where appropriate. This type of prototype should have improved functionality over the Mark 1 prototype and will be similar in form and materials to the final product.
Prototype Improvements will often take the feedback from trialling the prototype and make some minor amends before further detailed design work is undertaken. This can be used to mitigate risk and refine areas of the new product idea using the current prototype.
Beyond the Mark 2 prototype, it can be necessary to complete further prototypes to finalise the design and the development of a product. Normally this is only the case with complex products such as pushchairs or electric golf trollys. However, sometimes even small products will require further prototypes to refine the design before production.
This type of prototype will largely be built from bespoke parts from the agreed CAD model. However ‘off the shelf’ parts will be used where appropriate and ideally these are the same components that will be used for manufacture. This type of prototype is used to confirm final engineering changes for manufacture before tooling.
This type of prototype will largely be built from bespoke parts from the agreed CAD model. ‘Off the shelf’ parts will be used where appropriate and where they are true representations of the final product. This type of prototype is unlikely to function as intended but will be similar in form, and materials to the final product.
Types of Prototypes
Plastic Prototyping
This type of prototype is often used for plastic casings and small plastic products that are relatively simple. We have a fully equipped workshop for assembling plastic prototypes, spray painting and a 3D printer that can rapidly component parts in a range of materials.
Mechanism Prototyping
Utilising our experience across a range of complex mechanical prototypes including use of: motors, valves, folding systems, pumps and cutting devices, we can create mechanical prototypes to prove the concept before refining into presentable prototypes that function effectively for testing the product with users before going into production.
Metal Prototyping
In combination with our component suppliers with milling and welding capability, we have built various metal prototypes of frameworks for industrial products and also durable working component for small consumer goods.
Wood Prototyping
We have worked in various woods on a range of size products from full-size furniture to smaller decorative items.
Let us help you bring your new product to market.
If you’re looking to develop a new product or re-design an existing range but lack the in-house capacity or expertise to make it a reality, get in touch with us today to discuss your requirements.
