Prototype Modelling

Creating prototypes that allow engineers and designers to test, assess, and modify during the process of product development.

Why is this skill important?

Prototypes are essential if designers are to understand how a product will perform. They allow testing of function and performance in the real world and even determine if customers want to buy them.

This means the prototype modeler must also have a wide range of skills, including 3D CAD systems, CAM systems such as milling, printing, vacuum casting, working with machine and hand tools, as well as spray painting and finishing.

Often multiple versions of a prototype must be created, each designed to test what is still uncertain in the performance of the final design.

Could this skill be for you?

If you like:

Fixing things
Making things
Complex problems
Using tools
Being creative

You should also take a look at:

Manufacturing and Engineering Technology

The Challenge

Important elements of the challenge include:

Competitors will create a prototype model based on three dimensional computer aided design data and two dimensional drawings using handtools and machines.
Contestants will prepare and give the dimensions on a 2D drawing based on the three dimensional computer aided design data.
An ability to work with different materials in essential to this Skill.
The finished prototype should be painted and decorated to a high standard.