Engineers use commercial prototype models to test product design, appearance and function in market research studies prior to spending the money necessary to produce the real thing. Architects use industrial scale models to sell clients on the look and feel of a design or to portray a design in the best light when competing with other design firms.

Industrial scale modeling and prototype modeling are specialties that require specific equipment and an artistic eye because much of an initial rendering comes from the industrial scale model producer and prototype model maker's imagination. These are specialties the average business person can't be expected to know much about, which is why it is important to have a plan of action when contracting the production of industrial scale models.

1. Find prototype model makers.

2. Hire industrial scale model producers.

3. Consider 3-D modeling for virtual industrial scale model design.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact prototype model makers to produce commercial prototype models

Prototype modeling is a great way for engineers and marketers to test a new product design and see how it works in the real world as well as how the buying public is likely to receive it before spending the money on mass production and marketing. Kinks and design flaws become apparent and consumer preference is noted before the actual product goes into production. Products often go though several prototypes before the final design is agreed upon by a product's engineers, marketers and financial backers.

I recommend: Astro Manufacturing and Design's rapid prototype model process creates physical objects from 3-D CAD drawing files using a computer-controlled laser to carve through photosensitive resin. Lasermation is a prototype model manufacturer that makes trade show displays and experimental working prototypes from thin wood, veneer, metal, plastic and paperboard. Lasermation offers chemical etching, screen and dye sublimation, lasering, mechanical engraving, process printing and wood working. Try Paramount Industries, that produces prototype models for testing and performance, appearance, engineering checks, litigation, photos, and museum and exhibit using a variety of molding and tooling techniques, including the lost wax processes.

Contract with industrial scale model producers for architectural models

Architectural models include representation of building materials to the surrounding terrain and landscaping. Architectural models are works of art that give builders and their clients a real world look at the finished project long before the actual building becomes recognizable.

I recommend: Southern Model is an industrial scale model design firm that models exteriors, interiors, topography, golf courses and performs site studies. Architectural Models works with Compaq and NBC Dateline to produce highly detailed models in their state-of-the-art modeling studio. Visit their online gallery for a sample of their work.

Use 3-D modeling for virtual industrial scale model design

Virtual industrial scale models are a way to produce the most complicated architectural designs and prototypes without ever realizing them in a three-dimensional world. 3-D virtual modeling is less expensive because it requires fewer materials and no manufacturing time or equipment.

I recommend: Anza offers CAD services, including 3-D modeling from sketches, model mock-ups and verbal descriptions. Anza uses SolidWorks parametric, hybrid modeler software for modeling both free form and solid surfaces. Global 3D-Arts produces 3-D renderings and photorealistic animations of exteriors and interiors with superior printing capability and affordable prices.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Scale industrial models are assumed to be to scale, meaning that everything is reduced in size while the proportion differentials between objects and landscaping remains accurate. However, not all model makers are strict about scale and others who work from client drawings simply assume the scale in their drawing is what they are expected to use. Discuss scale with the modeler before she starts the modeling project, whether its real world or on paper, to make sure your finished product is what you need.