How Long Does It Take to Build a Prototype? All You Need to Know

Product development is in several stages. And from ideation to manufacturing and sales, there are a million decisions to make. And some of these decisions are driven by time.

The interesting part is that the time it takes for one aspect of the product development journey is not the same for all. For example, the time it took to get your patent drafted and granted is not the same time it takes to create your prototype. Likewise, the time for idea generation is also relative compared to the other two.

However, this does not mean that an estimated time cannot be given for planning a prototyping phase of the product development. Our professional experience has resulted in a calculated period for building a prototype. And some of these time frames are shared below.

How Long Does It Take To Build a Prototype?

Generally, building a prototype can take between a day and a year. As a matter of fact, there have been situations where it took much longer than that. However, it was eventually finished.

For prototyping that is done mainly via 3D printing, it might take several hours in a day or sometimes spill over into a few days. But we usually spend between 1 to 2 months to build an invention prototype. And this is the standard for most prototyping done.

If you are interested in knowing the timelines of some types of invention prototypes, here are some below:

• Electronics Prototype: That is a custom PCB. This takes between 4-12 weeks to be created.
• Mechanical Prototype: This takes between 4-8 weeks to be printed.
• 3D Printed Mockup Prototype: This takes between 1-4 weeks to create.
• Sewing: This is done between 2-4 weeks.
• Silicone Rubber Molded Prototype: It takes between 2-6 weeks to make one.

What Are The Factors Affecting The Duration Of Building Prototypes?

• Type of Product

There are different expectations when building a product prototype. For example, it is relatively much easier if you are prototyping a spoon or a general hand-held household device. The time used in building the prototype would be shorter than in other cases.

If you are looking to prototype software or a mobile app, then you should get ready to wait a while. This is because of the steps involved in the creation. These include identifying the type of prototype, conducting research, creating a wireframe, designing algorithms, working on visual design, making a clickable prototype, and designing a functional prototype.

• The Materials Needed to Make the Prototype

Another thing that affects the time used in building a prototype is the kind of materials used in its creation. Thus, if they are easily accessible, they would be done more quickly. And this is compared to a product prototype with far-fetched materials to assemble.

There are 3D printers and CNC machines for most physical prototypes, allowing for the quick production of some custom parts. There are also stock parts that are available for purchase off the shelf. Thus, physical prototype materials are easier to access.

And if you need electrical and mechanical parts of your prototype, you can access them via resources like Digi-Key and McMaster. Also, you can get electronic prototypes done very fast via platforms such as OriginGPS, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi.

Hottest Questions about How Long Does It Take to Build a Prototype

Conclusion

The product itself can answer the question of how long it takes to build a prototype. Extensive or short prototyping periods are both possible on several projects. Thus, you could leverage the time to cater to other aspects of your product development.

LA NPDT exists to give you the best experience in the market with your product development. We have a diverse team to help your business convert ideas into sellable products.

Some of the services available at LA NPDT are building prototypes, CAD models and PCB circuits, and more. Say hello to us today through lanpdt.com or call directly at 318-243-5789.