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Prototyping services to test your product before you make it

Our prototyping services turn your design into something you can hold, test and show to others. We build prototypes in-house at our Highbridge workshop, from 3D printing to CNC machining, and source them externally when a product calls for it. Start with a free 30 minute Product Consultation.

Operating 3D Printer

What a prototype does for you

A prototype lets you trial the product, spot changes early and prove your design choices before you pay for production. It is also one of the best tools for showing a product to potential clients or investors. Testing leads to informed decisions, and finding a problem on a prototype costs far less than finding it in a first production batch.

Prototyping in-house

We prototype in-house using:

  • High detail 3D printers, including large bed printers that can print items up to 600 x 600 x 600mm

  • High quality resin 3D printers

  • A large bed CNC machine

  • A laser cutter

  • Vacuum casting equipment

  • Electronic PCB hardware

In-house prototyping is offered in a range of materials, and next day delivery is available on prototypes we develop in-house. Because the equipment is under one roof, changes between versions can be made quickly.

When we source a prototype externally

Some products need processes or materials beyond our workshop. For highly specialist work we use partner companies in the UK and abroad. You still deal with one team, and we manage the supplier for you.

Prototypes with electronics

If your product has electronics, we can design the circuit board (PCB) and build the electronic prototype alongside the mechanical parts, so you test the whole product together. We often start electronics projects on standard PCB development boards such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi to test the idea and the function, before committing to a full new PCB being built. This enables us to test and iterate your product more quickly and efficiently, before moving to custom designed boards. 

How a prototyping project runs

  1. We talk through your design and what you need to learn from the prototype.

  2. We prepare the CAD (computer aided design) files, or use yours.

  3. We build the prototype and send it to you.

  4. You test it and tell us what to change.

  5. We update the design and build again if needed.

Each design includes three iterations. Anything beyond that is charged separately, and we agree it with you first. In a full project, prototyping typically takes about two months. This is typical, not a promise.

Working remotely or in person 

All design and development can be handled remotely, with online CAD sharing and viewing, so you do not need to visit us to get a prototype. If you prefer to meet, we are happy to visit you anywhere in the UK on request. We have remote offices all over the UK with our NatWest Networking partnership and main hubs in the South West, Bristol and Highbridge. 

Already have a design from an earlier project?

If you want a prototype from a previous project, call us on +44 1278 327306. We can often start from existing files, or if needed use the existing project as inspiration and start afresh. We design with manufacturing in mind from the start, however not all designers do this, meaning we often pick up project where the client has been given a fantastic product, but no way to manufacture and produce it.  We can then redesign the product to ensure that it is easy to manufacture, affordably and reliably. 

Prototypes to raise funding

A good prototype helps when you speak to investors or launch a crowdfunding campaign. See our page on prototyping to raise funding. Many of our clients have been successful in raising funding via website such as Kickstarter after making a prototype which helps show the product and advertise it to potential buyers. We have also had clients land large orders from resellers such as John Lewis and Target using a high quality prototype and manufacturing cost estimation. 

After the prototype

When your prototype is approved, we can take it into small production runs in our workshop, or work with a manufacturer of your choice to mass produce your product. See Sourcing and Production.

Questions and answers

How quickly can I get a prototype?

Prototyping typically takes about two months within a full project, but this depends on the product. Next day delivery is available on in-house prototypes once they are made. Your exact timeline is set in the consultation.

What materials can you prototype in?

It depends on the product. For 3D printing we use filaments and resins, including flexible, transparent, biodegradable and rigid options. We also use CNC machining and laser cutting for wood, metal and other materials. The best option is discussed with you during the design.

Do I need a finished design?

No. We can take a concept through design and on to a prototype, or start from your own CAD files.

How much does a prototype cost?

It depends on size, complexity, materials and whether electronics are involved. We do not quote without the details. The free consultation is where your personalised quote starts.

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Next step

​Email info@batesproductdesign.com or phone +44 1278 327306.

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