The Different Types of Prototypes

When developing a physical product, the word prototype can mean many different things. It’s often used to describe “anything not yet industrialized,” but in reality, there are several stages — each with its own type of prototype, purpose, and level of maturity.

At AQ-Tech, we divide the development journey into three main phases:

Innovation – Prototyping – Industrialization

Let’s explore what each prototype represents, from the first proof of concept to pre-series production.

1. Product development stages

Contrary to the simplistic view “Idea → Prototype → Market,” developing a physical product involves several key milestones:

• Idea → Technical research → POC → Product development → Validation → Industrial design → Industrialization → Production

Each step requires a specific prototype designed to validate a given aspect: technical feasibility, ergonomics, aesthetics, or manufacturability.

2. The POC (Proof of Concept)

The POC is the first tangible step. Its goal is to prove that the technology works — even roughly. This stage answers one key question: is the idea technically feasible?

The POC prototype often looks raw but is invaluable for testing core principles, identifying limitations, and refining early technical assumptions.

3. The functional prototype

Once feasibility is confirmed, it’s time for the functional prototype. This version focuses on usability, form factor, and real-world interaction. It looks and behaves like the final product, even if its manufacturing process isn’t yet optimized.

This phase involves iteration: building, testing, and improving until the design and user experience are validated. Rapid prototyping methods — such as 3D printing, vacuum casting, or prototype molding — are commonly used to accelerate progress.

4. The industrial prototype

Now comes the transition from prototype to product. The industrial prototype reflects the final design, materials, and manufacturing processes. Every component is redesigned according to the selected industrial techniques (injection molding, machining, overmolding, etc.).

This version is almost identical to the final product and is used to fine-tune tolerances, materials, and surface finishes before production tooling begins.

5. The pre-series

The pre-series marks the transition to production. These are the first products manufactured with final tooling and processes. They are used for regulatory validation, pilot testing, and initial market release.

This step is essential to ensure repeatability, reliability, and readiness for large-scale production.

6. In summary

• POC: validate the concept’s feasibility.
• Functional prototype: validate design and usability.
• Industrial prototype: validate manufacturability.
• Pre-series: validate production readiness.

At AQ-Tech, we support companies through every stage of product development — from concept to pre-series — with agile, multidisciplinary teams ensuring that every prototype moves you closer to a reliable, market-ready product.