One of the most common concerns that most new inventors have is about building the invention prototype. Building a prototype, in many instances, is seen as this difficult hurdle that has to be overcome. For most new inventions this is simply not true.
A prototype, at the early stages of the invention process should be developed in the design phase so that you understand the general product design and its basic functionality. Is it the right size? Do the basic laws of science support the transfer of the invention concept from a 2D drawing or sketch to a physical 3D object that you can hold? The questions can continue on indefinitely...
Your first invention prototype should be a mock-up or stage prop type made of simple materials such as cardboard, pvc pipe, sheets of plastic, duct tape, paint and other common supplies and materials. The purpose of the first prototype, and quite honestly most subsequent versions as well, is to give you a good sense of the look and feel of the invention product.
The prototype can make or break a potential invention commercialization partnership or invention funding deal. Investors and invention commercialization partners respond to new inventions better when they have something that they can get a "feel" for. They want to touch it and hold it.
You can continue to improve the prototype as you learn more and move through the invention process. You can develop more sophisticated versions of your invention prototype. These later versions should focus on critical factors such as dimensions, weight, functionality, ergonomics, safety, design for manufacturability, design for assembly and any regulations with which the invention product must comply.
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