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Prototype tooling creates a limited number of copies from a 3D design using traditional or 3D printing techniques. Functional parts may be simplified for display purposes, and the per-copy rate is higher than regular tooling.
Prototyping tools are a way to create a prototype from a three-dimensional (3D) design or model; in many respects, it is the same as regular utensils. Traditional tooling techniques are usually used with prototype tooling, but 3D printing can also be used to form the prototype for some needs. While this is similar to normal equipment, there are differences in how the prototype is assembled and its general functionality. The tooling company is making a limited number of copies, so the per-copy rate is much higher than with regular tooling.
Tooling is a method of working with materials in which materials are cut and shaped to create a specific shape. For example, to make a screw, a piece of metal is made into a cylinder and then a spiral is cut into the bottom half of the metal. In most cases, this is what prototype tooling is all about; the materials needed for the prototype are cut and shaped to make a copy of the prototype. Apart from functionality issues, another major difference between prototype and normal equipment is the amount of output, because only a limited number of copies are made for the prototype.
While traditional tooling is commonly used for prototype tooling, 3D printers can also be used for some prototypes. Simple functionality can be replicated with this method, but advanced functionality is difficult. It is more like a mold being replicated from a 3D model; this means that 3D printing is a useful tooling technique when using plastics.
There are some differences between prototype tooling and regular tooling that can prevent a prototype from being used safely and correctly. If the prototype is supposed to be functional, with moving parts, this will usually be minimized to make the prototype easier and faster to rig. This means that functional parts may not be included or may be simplified so that the functions can be briefly displayed to interested buyers. Parts are usually not so securely attached, so the prototype may not be safe for extended use.
Regular tools are often expensive, but because so many copies are made at once, the per-copy fee is usually relatively affordable. It’s more difficult to use machine tools for short runs, especially if the prototype tooling is different than anywhere else, so the per-copy rate is often much higher. This means that the inventor may have to pay a lot of money to get the prototype properly equipped, even if the prototype is similar to existing products.
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