In this part 1 guide to model making, we explain what professional model making is, when it is useful and... Continue reading
What is model making?
Professional model making is the fusion of skills, techniques and technologies to produce high-quality 3D representations of objects. These might be for presentations, design verification, functional production testing or architectural presentations.
What is the model making process?
The model making process varies from project to project. We might work from sketches, industrial design schemes, 2D drawings, 3D CAD files, hand-made models or any combination of these.
When we receive an enquiry, we discuss the project with the customer and agree the optimum processes.
When is model making used?
Model making is ideal when automated prototyping technologies or processes are not enough – perhaps due to size or complexity – or where the model needs to incorporate parts produced by different means.
Our professional model making services cover four key areas:
Design verification models:
We make early-stage models to verify how the product will look and feel – we call it a ‘reality check’. These models are not for testing strength, flow or durability characteristics.
Presentation models:
Presentation models look, feel and behave like the finished product. They can be for presentation to clients or backers, or for use at trade shows, for sales promotion, or marketing evaluation and market research.
Architectural models:
We create scaled architectural models of buildings and larger construction developments for visualisation and presentation purposes. In addition, we can model cars, aeroplanes, ships, and other construction or structural engineering projects.
Advanced prototype models:
Models can be invaluable for functional testing and pre-manufacture production verification. They are ideal for evaluating a product’s physical and behavioural characteristics.
Model making capabilities
Our multi-skilled model makers are trained in the latest techniques and technologies, plus they benefit from years of experience and practice in projects ranging from automotive, seats and interior mouldings, to complex functional models of medical devices.
At Prototype Projects we have a broad range of technologies, processes and materials for prototyping and model making, as well as a fully equipped finishing workshop. Models often incorporate parts that we have produced using our 3D printing, CNC machining and vacuum casting facilities.
If there any technologies are required that we do not have in-house, we can outsource these and manage the entire model making project on behalf of the customer. We therefore provide a complete one-stop model making service.
When customers come to us needing a model but do not know how it can be produced, we call on our experience to act as consultants and advisors, helping customers achieve their goals within the timescales and budgets available.
On those occasions when we are asked to work from sketches or manmade models, we can utilise our CAD suite to create 3D models for use in 3D printing, CNC machining and vacuum casting.
Characteristics of models
Our model making team produces exceptionally high-quality models that are virtually indistinguishable from production units. Some models are static but others are functional. We liaise closely with customers to ensure we understand the context and deliver models that are fit for purpose.
Service levels for model making
No two model making projects are the same, so we will discuss your requirements and propose a project plan that fulfils your needs in terms of the technical aspects, budget and timescale.
Finishing options for models
Aesthetics are often vital for model. As well as a fully equipped finishing and paint spraying facility, we can also arrange to have parts finished to look like they are made of metals – for example, by electroplating, electroless plating or vacuum metallisation. We can therefore simulate any metal, injection moulded plastic, or even glass.
A key part of the model making process is assembly. Depending on the model’s purpose, this might involve bonding or fastening parts together, or assembling them so mechanisms function as required.
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Talk to us
Whatever your need for model making, talk to us 01763 249760 or complete the enquiry form below to request a quote.
Office team
Our office team manages everything from the commercial, consulting and planning of the business through to the management of customer quotations and invoicing. If you’d like to meet the team, and take a tour of our prototyping facilities, please contact us.
Justin Pringle
Managing Director
Hannah Game
Sales Manager
Wendy Webb
Sales Advisor
Emily West
Sales Assistant
Vikki Pringle
Accounts and Company Secretary
Shane Lee
Senior Accounts Assistant