// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Prototype
A prototype is an early sample, model, or release of a product built to test a concept or process. It's used to evaluate designs, test functionality, and gather feedback before full-scale production.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A prototype is an initial, functional model or preliminary version of a product, system, or component developed for testing design concepts, validating functionalities, assessing performance, and gathering user feedback prior to mass production or final deployment in engineering and manufacturing.
BACKGROUND
Rapid prototyping is a group of techniques used to quickly fabricate a scale model of a physical part or assembly using three-dimensional computer aided design (CAD) data. Construction of the part or assembly is usually done using 3D printing or "additive layer manufacturing" technology.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Model
- mock-up
- pilot
- sample
- proof of concept
- alpha version
USAGE NOTE
Creating a prototype helps identify design flaws early, saving significant costs in manufacturing.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Prototype.
A leading global provider of industrial 3D printing solutions and additive manufacturing technologies, widely used for rapid prototyping, concept modeling, and functional prototyping across various industries to accelerate product development cycles.
A pioneer in additive manufacturing, offering comprehensive 3D printing solutions, materials, and software that enable engineers and designers to quickly create prototypes for product development, design validation, and functional testing.
A digital manufacturer providing rapid prototyping and on-demand production services, utilizing technologies like 3D printing, CNC machining, injection molding, and sheet metal fabrication to quickly turn designs into physical prototypes.
Develops a broad portfolio of software for design, engineering, and manufacturing, including CAD/CAM/CAE tools (e.g., Fusion 360, Inventor) that facilitate virtual prototyping, simulation, and design optimization before physical fabrication.
Offers a comprehensive suite of software for product lifecycle management (PLM), including tools for CAD, CAE, and manufacturing operations management, enabling advanced virtual prototyping, simulation, and digital twin capabilities for complex industrial products.
Creator of powerful 3D design software such as CATIA and SolidWorks, along with simulation platforms, which are critical for digital mock-ups, virtual prototyping, and collaborative design processes in advanced manufacturing.
Develops professional and accessible 3D printers, materials, and software, making high-resolution stereolithography (SLA) and selective laser sintering (SLS) prototyping accessible for engineers and designers to iterate rapidly.
An on-demand manufacturing marketplace that provides rapid prototyping and production services across various technologies, including 3D printing, CNC machining, and injection molding, allowing businesses to source custom parts quickly.