Scientists Say: Prototype

Prototype (noun, “PROH-toh-typ”)

A prototype is a test version of an invention or product. It could be a physical item. But it could also be something digital, such as an early version of a website or program.

A person builds a prototype to test how an idea holds up in the real world. That way, they can find flaws in a design and make fixes. Developing an idea from concept to finished product often involves creating multiple prototypes. Each version improves upon the last one.

Prototypes may be simple or complex. Early in the design process, a prototype may be a simple sketch. As someone learns more about what works — and doesn’t — they build more complex prototypes.

Imagine someone wants to make a robot that can cross rough terrain. Building a complete robot right from the start would likely waste time and money. After all, the inventor should expect some trial and error. For example, wheels that work well in theory may fail in real-life rubble.

People use different types of prototypes for different purposes. A late-stage prototype that includes all or most of the product’s final parts might called a working prototype. But many prototypes test only certain parts of an idea. Scientists call these proof-of-principle prototypes. For example, a prototype built to test a robot’s wheels might lack a motor and other parts that would be crucial to the final product. But it does allow researchers to test a certain wheel’s grip.

In web design, a flowchart showing how a new website will work can serve as a prototype. The flowchart might help web developers envision and solve known problems. Or it could help them plan the most efficient site design.

In a sentence

Scientists created a working prototype of a robot that speeds up a pianist’s playing ability.

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