A Prototype is a first or preliminary version of something, such as a product design. It is used to help develop the final version. Prototypes can be physical or digital. Physical prototypes are created as models. Prototypes can also be high fidelity or low fidelity. Low fidelity models are usually lower quality and are created quickly to help make design decisions and convey information that is harder to do using a drawing or sketch.
Low fidelity physical prototypes are usually made using things like cardboard, paddle pop sticks, plasticine, sticky tape, styro foam, packaging materials and other assorted 'junk'. High fidelity physical prototypes are sometimes life sized and they are usually very detailed. Modern concept models are sometimes 3D printed. The model below shows a hand made high fidelity model of a sports car. This model would be used to test the aerodynamics of the 'design' by using it in a wind tunnel or with a 'wind wand' . It could also be painted and used to gauge peoples opinion on its aesthetic appeal. Prototypes may be static models or they could have moving parts.
High Fidelity Physical Prototypes
3D Printed Car Model
Model being tested for aerodynamics
Low Fidelity Physical Prototypes
Cardboard Chair Model
Cardboard House Design Model
Using plasticine to work out the handle ergonomics for a prototype lemon squeezer
Paddle pop bridge prototype - used to test how strong the design is
Digital Prototypes
Digital prototypes, as the names suggest are created using computer technology. They help the designer convey information and come up with quick designs. Examples of digital prototypes are animations, video walkthroughs, wire frame models, websites, apps, virtual reality and motion graphics e.g. Adobe After effects.
The complexity, resolution and the time it takes to make a digital prototype will probably determine whether it is high or low fidelity.
Testing interior designs using Virtual Reality models
Wire-frame trainer model
Simulated Model with moving parts created using AutoDesk Fusion
