What does 'prototyping' involve in engineering design?

Prototyping in engineering design involves creating a model or a preliminary version of a product that allows designers and engineers to test and refine their concepts. This process is critical as it helps in identifying potential issues, exploring design functionalities, and assessing usability before the final version is produced.

Through prototyping, teams can gather valuable feedback on their designs, allowing them to make necessary adjustments based on real-world interactions or usability studies. This iterative approach not only saves time and resources but also enhances the overall quality of the final product. It represents a vital step in the design process, ensuring that the concept evolves into a workable solution that meets user needs and expectations effectively.