Prototype models 1: Prototype models 2: Prototype models 3:
Prototype Model Making. Before the model can be created a design has to be conceived. This may be in the form of a CAD 3D modelling on screen, or as a 2D drawing that is used to create the Model. If this last route is taken, then the second stage in the design process is Prototype modelling. The drawings done the prototype model maker start his job, to make the product come to life. Product prototype models are a useful step in, making a product real, proving that all the surfaces look right, and ensuring the mechanics operate correctly. Prototype modelling allows us to see the form, feel it, change it and adapt it, until it works perfectly as a product. Prototype model makers create our reality for the product we use, before all the expensive tooling has to be made.
Occasionally prototype model makers are used to create a design with very little more than a sketch on a scrap of paper. So the whole project is designed in 3D modeling, but not on screen, for real 3D. In some ways this can be better, if it works in 3D then it works for real.
Should the model be designed in 3D in CAD on screen then it can be out put by several means, stereo lithography, laser sintering, 3D copier or CNC Milling. All of which have their up sides and down. All out puts usually need hand finishing by the Product model maker, before they can be painted or decorated, to give a finished product look. It does mean that the form can be changed fairly quickly, and once final approval is given the files can be adapted into tool files so a 3D tool can be made from existing data.
Prototype model making can be an interesting job as the projects can be very diverse, so one day designing a toy and the next a phone. Product prototype models are very rewarding for the professional model maker, for he or she can see the work they do materializing into a product on the high street, and may make a real difference to the end user.
Quite often once a prototype model has been made and approved, there are other applications it is used for. One of the most common is the Marketing tool. To be photographed and used in sales literature, while the real product is being manufactured.
This is another reason that, product model making is used to design the products we use.
To make the duplicates for marketing the model maker has to make a silicon mould and use this to cast the item in polyurethane resin. It will then be finished and be-burred, primed and finished in the colour required for the sample. The product model maker could decide to cast the piece in coloured resin to save time in spraying operations. This may well work for one product but not another.
