Choosing the best prototype[prototype?:fast prototype maker cutting machine] material for your particular product or invention depends on a number of factors including budget, presentation, time frame, and quantity. The final function of a prototype or product usually determines which kind of prototype material is used. Prototype material may be as simple a cobbling together some simple materials or items found around the house. The prototype materials used in rapid prototyping (RP) can provide a more detailed prototype needed for presentation to investors, engineers, marketers, designers, or manufacturers. Other prototype material includes patterns made with silicon molds and various types of plastics or combinations of resin and other materials.
Initially, prototype material may be wood, clay, resin or a combination of these and other materials. Consider cost before deciding what prototype materials or processes will be used. Some of the most successful products have initially been made from very crude prototype materials or items found around the house, like cardboard, wire, and duct tape. As long it shows how the product works, any type of prototype material can be used. One type of inexpensive prototype material is a special plastic[plastic?:Plastic sample cutting machine] that becomes soft and moldable when heated in a microwave or with a hairdryer.
