Choose a prototype package when you need to investigate a defined question, such as appearance, fit or a mechanism. Choose a manufacturing package when the design is developed enough to document the agreed geometry and requirements for a selected production process. In both cases, agree the scope with your designer and supplier.
These are useful descriptions of a project's purpose. They are not universal certification levels or a guarantee that a product has passed physical testing.
What each package is for
| Question | Prototype-ready design files | Manufacturing-ready design files |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Support a defined build or evaluation | Communicate the agreed design and production requirements |
| Design decisions | Some may remain open for learning | Relevant release decisions should be documented |
| Process | Chosen for the prototype's purpose | Reviewed for the intended supplier and production process |
| Supporting information | Enough for the agreed build and evaluation | Agreed drawings, specifications and assembly information |
| Next step | Review findings and revise where needed | Resolve supplier questions and complete the agreed release checks |
Define what the prototype should tell you
Write down the question before selecting the files. An appearance model, a fit-check part and a functional assembly may require different materials and preparation. Explain what you plan to evaluate and which conditions the evaluation should represent.
A prototype can leave a design question open deliberately. Record that limitation so a later supplier does not mistake a temporary choice for an approved production requirement.
Prototype-ready design at We Master Design provides agreed files and specifications. Physical fabrication and physical testing are arranged separately.
Review the intended manufacturing process
Check geometry, material choice, assembly requirements and supplier feedback against the intended process. An injection-moulded part may need process-specific attention to wall thickness, draft and features such as ribs. A supplier's published design limits should be assessed for that supplier and process. Protolabs: Injection moulding design guidelines
Manufacturability feedback can also require a geometry revision. Review the change, update the relevant files and resolve remaining questions before release. Protolabs describes required CAD changes within its own manufacturing-analysis workflow. Protolabs: Manufacturing analysis
A DFM/DFA review can examine agreed part and assembly questions. It does not replace supplier confirmation or establish product certification.
Agree the release information
Ask what the supplier needs to quote, make and inspect the product. The package may include CAD, drawings, materials, tolerances, finishes, assembly notes and revision identifiers, depending on the scope. Ensure the files describe the same approved design state.
Manufacturing-ready packages supply the agreed design documentation. Physical supply, testing and applicable compliance work require their own arrangements.
Plan the next stage
Start a project with your current files and the next question to resolve. Use the product design brief checklist to organise the requirements before contacting the team.
Further reading
Common questions
- Can prototype CAD be used for production?
- It may be a starting point. Review it against the intended production process, supplier requirements and available test findings before agreeing what can be released.
- Does manufacturing-ready mean the product is certified?
- No. Agreed design documentation does not establish certification or replace applicable testing and assessment.
- Which service should I choose if the next stage is unclear?
- Describe what exists and the decision you need to make in the project brief. The team can assess whether the next scope is design development, CAD, prototype preparation or manufacturing documentation.
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