Prototyping and Testing

Our prototyping process turns your idea into reality.

As soon as possible we like to begin prototyping, and it’s important to understand all the different types of prototype we make, and why.

Very early in a project, when we’re trying to work out how something might work we will build proof of concept models. These are crude mechanisms and assemblies that we can use to see how something will function. We will usually combine modified ‘off the shelf’ parts with some simple printed or machined parts to see if a concept is feasible.

This is a continuous process, usually designing by day, and printing overnight. As the design improves we get more detail in and can optimize as we iterate. We’re now making works like models.

‘Form follows function—that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.’_{—Frank Lloyd Wright} 

But we don’t just care about the function of something. Once everything performs functionally as expected we will then work out the enclosure for the design – how is it made, how is it assembled, how is it to hold and use – as these are all important functions too. We will make multiple looks like models as we go, and these are often shared with clients for further feedback. If we need to we will redesign mechanisms to get the best overall solution, that combines form and function.