Model making

Our services: model and prototype manufacturing

Functional models

We design and build these models at defortec as part of our product development process. Functional models focus on the key technical characteristics and distinctive functions of a future product. They are used in the very early stages of product and design development to test new ideas and handling concepts, evaluate technical functions and thus rapidly advance new product ideas. Functional models are an important component of professional product development.

Traditional design models

are often created for trade fair presentations, showrooms or as part of the design development process for presentations, or to serve as a basis for decision-making in ergonomic assessments. Our design models are carefully designed in CAD to the required scale, then manufactured with attention to detail and given a perfect surface finish. We utilise traditional manufacturing techniques as well as, of course, 3D printing processes. Our models show the quality of the design concept, demonstrate the proportions and visualise the product’s core functions. Where specific requirements call for it, more complex functions can be integrated to present the future product in a realistic and convincing manner.

The scale of a model can be chosen freely: large-format models with a high level of details are ideal for trade fairs, whilst compact models fit into the hand luggage and can be used at roadshows and during sales presentations.

Prototypes

The combination of function and design results in prototypes that correspond largely to the future series product, functionally and visually. However, a prototype is still manufactured without production tooling, usually using machining or various forming processes. Naturally, generic manufacturing processes are also utilised in this context.

These highly detailed prototypes serve to realistically assess the design, functionality, user-friendliness, choice of materials and ergonomics prior to the start of series production. They are frequently used in initial sales presentations, whilst tools for series production are being manufactured at the same time. We produce prototypes as one-offs or in small batches of 20–30 units. High-quality prototypes play a key role in product design because they combine design quality, technical feasibility and brand impact, enabling the customer to launch the product onto the market even before series production begins.

We’d be happy to advise you – please get in touch!