What does a prototype engineer do?
The prototype engineer is usually responsible for supervision of the process of designing and developing a prototype product. This often begins with a brainstorm and design phase in which the engineer either creates a concept, or uses someone else's ideas and design to develop a realistic approach to it. The model is then usually created by a prototype, either in physical form or as a computer -generated object that can be tested in the virtual space. The real prototype is then usually created by a prototype engineer for use in demonstrations or as the first step in future development. The exact way of the engineer can vary a bit, although often begins with brainstorming and numerous iterations about the way of developing the product. A prototype engineer may also have to work from someone's concept differently and find a way to actually work. It can be a rough concept that is described by general data, or there may be a fully conceived product that the engineer must further develop to be practical.
After the introduction of the basic design, the prototype engineer usually creates a model type or a non -functional version of the product. This is often done to see how parts need to be obtained or produced, and test the overall appearance and initial usability of the product. Physical models can be created by a prototype engineer, often used to ensure that the item fits into a part of a larger object that can only be one part. Computer design programs (CAD) are often used to create a digital model of an item that can be tested and analyzed in a virtual environment.
When these development phases are completed, a prototype engineer usually creates a functional prototype of the item. This can be one of the most difficult and complex phases of the process, as various shortcomings need to be found and numerous tests are performed on the prototype. However, a functional item is important, thereforethat it is often used in demonstrations and shows practical applications for others within the company. The first version of the item is rarely used, so the prototype engineer may have to create many models and go through many iterations of the product before working on it is completed.