4.1.

2
Create a Prototype
Of the Product
l One of the essential early steps in the inventing
process is creating a prototype--which, simply
defined, is a three-dimensional version of your
vision.
l Creating a prototype can also be one of the most
fun and rewarding steps you'll take. That's
because developing a prototype gives you the
opportunity to really tap into your creativity,
using those skills that inspired your invention
idea in the first place. And whether you're making
your prototype at home or hiring the services of
an engineer, seamstress or machinist, it's truly
exciting to see your idea transformed into
something tangible and real.
So what exactly should a
prototype look like?

lFirst, it depends on your idea.

lSecond, it depends on your budget and
your goals. If possible, it's great to start
with a handmade prototype, no matter
how rudimentary.
 A prototype
provides other
advantages, as
well:
1. It enables you to test and refine the
functionality of your design. Sure, your
idea works perfectly in theory. It's not
until you start physically creating it
that you'll encounter flaws in your
thinking. That's why another great
reason to develop a prototype is to
test the functionality of your idea.
You'll never know the design issues
and challenges until you begin actually
taking your idea from theory to reality.
2. It makes it possible to test the
performance of various materials.
For example, your heart may be set
on using metal--until you test it
and realize that, say, plastic
performs better at a lower cost for
your particular application. The
prototype stage will help you
determine the best materials.
3. It'll help you describe your
product more effectively with your
team, including your attorney,
packaging or marketing expert,
engineers and potential business
partners.
4. It will encourage others to take you
more seriously. When you arrive with a
prototype in hand to meet any
professional--from your own attorney
to a potential licensing company--you
separate yourself from the dozens of
others who've approached them with
only vague ideas in mind. Instead,
you'll be viewed as a professional with
a purpose, as opposed to just an
inventor with a potentially good idea.
l Making a prototype by hand is a great way
to start bringing your product to life.
Remember, there are no rules! Give yourself
permission to experiment. Look around the
house and select materials that you can use to
test to see if your idea works.
lOf course, your product could also be made
from any number of materials, ranging from
metals to chemicals to textiles. When using any
material, try to be open to alternatives you
may not have originally considered.
lYou should also do your research and
consider new and emerging technologies.
‘The prototyping stage is a great time to use
all your untapped creative ability and to
explore all the possibilities that are on the
market. Don't limit yourself to any
preconceived notions--whether it comes to
material use or the types of professionals
you can consult--and explore as much as you
can as you begin bringing your product idea
to life.'
 4 Steps to Build
Your Product’s First
Prototype
TECRAE A PTONCCE CTHSKE
 1. Create a Concept Sketch
> The first step toward turning your idea into reality is
getting it down on paper. Draw your idea to help you
visualize your prototype in greater detail. While it is
possible to use a digital drawing program for this step,
it may be more efficient to start on paper first.
> For one thing, inthe early stages of creating your
prototype, you’ll have a lot of ideas running through
your mind and competing with each other. You should
save time by drawing these rapidly on paper.
> Keep a sketch notebook to provide documentation
that can be used when submitting your patent.
EEPOLVD A LRVAIUT TPEYROPOT
 2. Develop a Virtual Prototype
> At some point it’s going to be invaluable to create a
digital sketch of your idea. A standard digital design tool
used by engineers and other professionals is AutoCAD,
which enables them to make both 2-D and 3-D
renderings.
> A 3-D rendering lets you rotate and animate your
virtual sketch, so you can visualize it from all angles.
> You can transform your 3-D drawing into a
photorealistic prototype, helping you see approximately
how a physical version of your design will look. If you’re
not skilled with computer drawing and rendering tools,
professional graphic designers or prototype designers
can assist you with this step.
UILDIB A LSCAIYHP TOPOEPYTR
 3. Build a Physical Prototype
> Once you have a virtual prototype, you’re ready to build a
physical prototype. If you have the skill, you can build one
yourself. If you need help, there are several types of resources
you can tap to get this step done.
> One way is going to a professional prototype designer. An
alternative is getting a designer or engineer to build your
prototype. If you’re cash-strapped, you might seek out a
handyman or advertise at an industrial design college.
> Once your first prototype is built, you may find flaws that
need to be corrected before you seek a patent. You may need
to build several prototypes to get a good one done.
CTEAOL A NUMAACFRERTU
 4. Locate a Manufacturer
> Once you have a working prototype, you’re
technically ready to apply for a patent; however, you
might want to take the additional step of locating a
manufacturer that can produce your product at a
profitable price.
> If your idea is going to be profitable, you need to be
able to build it at a cost that is low enough that you
can cover expenses without cutting too far into your
revenue.
> Go to multiple suppliers and manufacturers to get
estimates, so you can determine the most cost-
efficient materials and methods for putting your
prototype into production.