Three Different Types Of Prototyping For China Manufacturing

When it comes to mechanical and / or electrical products, importers often wonder what level of perfection that should aspire to when it comes to pre-production prototypes.

 

Chinese manufacturers can move very quickly for a few weeks, then distracted by another brilliant project. And many projects are stalled after the buyer ordered one or two reviews that were evident once prototypes were made. Therefore, it often makes sense to start with a simple prototype version, move fast and maintains low investment.

There are three main types of prototypes to consider:

•     Working Prototype or "works like '
•     Prototype for not working or 'seems'
•     Works like / It seems that

what is the best for you? Well it depends on what your objective is.

Working Prototype (functions as)

this type of prototype basically shows your concept into a working model, from parts to electronics in motion; that will show how the finished product would perform.

This prototype does not need to look pretty or polished as its main function is to test the functionality and performance. They are great for testing each subsection, and the full integration of the entire product.

Prototype for not working (it seems)

this type of prototype is all about appearance, and ultimately, could be just a shell that does not work for your design. From the point of view of marketing and branding, you could use these prototypes for photo shoots, images of websites; these could be used at exhibitions to show potential buyers and distributors of the 'next big thing' being released.

One advantage is that Chinese suppliers may not show in your trade show booth or in their showroom. Any potential customer will immediately understand that there is still a long way to go before going into production.

Works and looks Prototype

this is a fully functioning physical model of its concept, both from a functional point of view and design. This prototype level is only one step from full production and typically occurs once you are sure all the design features that are completed and everything has been checked and ready to go into production.

When should I use what kind?

Throughout the process of development of new products have to verify his idea and concept, and that the product moves through the stages of development may have a number of different prototypes. The 'Working Prototype' will provide that platform to test and develop all product features. At this stage, you may not have the overall look or the way you need to complete the "aspects of work" product.

He who does not work 'seems' prototype can be charged once you have the complete design and overall product size is known.

You may have a number of iterations of prototypes in both work and non-work throughout the product development cycle, but ideally only the design of the fully functional "works and looks like" prototype is needed.