Models and prototypes may serve number of purposes:
Proof of concept – uses a crude model to show that your idea will work.
Presentation – high quality models or prototypes help you to sell your idea.
Scalability and testing – a series of models each including lessons learned.
Market ready prototypes – can help manufactures understand specifications.
Models and prototypes should be seen as part of the deign process. Once you have achieved a status in line with your exploitation plan you should resist the temptation to keep on improving your models just because you can. This can be a waste of time and resources – particularly if you are thinking of licensing your idea. Licensees may well want to be involved in one, or more, aspect of the design process. Even more importantly, it could increase the “time to market” for your invention resulting in someone else getting there first.
More information and a Prototyping Strategy template are available in our
Qest Guide – Models and Prototypes
Protecting your idea.