how do I find a partner for model building and design models?
good model-making makes a design decision verifiable. A design model can demonstrate proportions, the effect of materials, or usability without having to replicate all technical functions. When selecting a partner, you should therefore first clarify what question the model is intended to answer and what level of realism is necessary to do so.
scope of Services and Delimitation
model-making allows creative decisions to be physically tested. A design model can illustrate form, proportion, surface texture, or specific aspects of use. An appearance model, on the other hand, does not automatically represent technical functions. When choosing a model, the key question is therefore what message the model is intended to convey. This determines the scale, material, level of detail, and required precision.
the assignment can support an early conceptual discussion or a later presentation. These purposes require different outcomes. A good partner explains which characteristics are depicted realistically and which deviations are intentionally retained. In this way, models are used as decision-making tools.
the Right Model for the Right Question
a carefully painted prototype looks convincing but can raise functional expectations that it cannot meet. A simple 3D model, on the other hand, is often sufficient for assessing size and accessibility. Therefore, describe the intended use: internal decision-making, user testing, or presentation. The clearer this purpose is, the more effectively you can determine the required effort and quality criteria.
four Criteria for Choosing a Partner
- define the purpose: Ask for a clear description of what the model is intended to represent and what it is not intended to demonstrate.
- justifying the scale: Body-related measurements and ranges often require models other than a simple comparison of space or proportions.
- coordinate surfaces: Color, sheen, and texture should be determined based on reference samples if they are relevant to the decision.
- plan for handling: Transport, assembly, and repeated use all influence the practical design of a model.
compare performance and work results
| task | possible outcome of the work | this is how it is assessed |
|---|---|---|
| early model | volume and Significant Additions | decision on Proportion and Arrangement |
| publication model | realistic appearance and contact surfaces | evaluation of Defined Material and Shape Characteristics |
| handling model | relevant movements and accesses | test of a clearly defined use case |
project Process and Decisions
a model briefing defines the test criteria, data specifications, and desired characteristics. The model-building partner then proposes procedures and the model’s structure. Interim results allow for corrections before time-consuming surface finishes are applied. During acceptance, the model is evaluated based on its intended purpose. Any known deviations from the planned product should be documented so that future viewers can correctly interpret its meaning.
example of a model for proportion and access
suppose a device needs to be evaluated both in terms of its size and its accessibility to an internal compartment. A closed, carefully painted model can demonstrate the proportions, but it does not address the issue of accessibility. A simpler model with a movable section might be more helpful in this regard.
the scope of the model is therefore derived from the actions to be tested. After the evaluation, a record is made of which design decisions were confirmed. The hypothetical example illustrates why elaborate interfaces do not automatically provide greater insight. The implementation and level of realism must be appropriate for the decision at hand.
common Mistakes in Selection and Contracting
one problem is commissioning a model that is as realistic as possible without a clear purpose. This can result in a great deal of effort being spent on details that are not yet relevant to decision-making. Incorrect weight or a lack of mobility can also be misleading during a usability evaluation. Ask about any deviations that were intentionally left in the model. If a model is later used for other purposes, its limitations should remain visible and understandable.
compare Costs and Schedules Effectively
costs and duration depend on the scale, the degree of material fidelity, and the desired surface quality of the model. Have research, development, prototyping, and external specialized services listed separately. Also specify which rounds of revisions are included and who approves feedback. A schedule is only meaningful once these decisions and dependencies are known.
the briefing for an initial meeting
specify the test requirements, intended use, and desired properties. Provide the most current data and references for the material and surface finish. Describe transportation, repeated handling, and any moving parts. Clarify exactly which design is required and where simplification is permissible. Also agree on how changes to the design will affect the modeling assignment and what documentation will be provided after the sample review.
frequently Asked Questions About Model Building and Design Models
what scale should a model have?
the one that accurately represents the issue under examination. The proportions of a large structure can be scaled down for examination; physical access, however, often requires a realistic size. Before building the model, determine what insights can be gained using the chosen scale.
a model must have the weight it will eventually have
only if weight or its distribution is relevant to the evaluation. When comparing shapes, a simplification may be sufficient, but when evaluating handling, it can be misleading. Therefore, document which characteristics the model realistically reproduces.
how are surfaces defined for an appearance model?
include appropriate references for color, sheen, and texture. View these under the appropriate lighting and in relation to adjacent surfaces. The assignment should specify which areas must be depicted with particular accuracy and where simplifications are permissible.
is a design model the same as a functional prototype?
not necessarily. A design model can primarily demonstrate appearance or usability, while a functional prototype examines technical requirements. Hybrid forms are possible. The project brief should clearly specify which characteristics are required and which claims the model explicitly does not convey.
when is a 3D print good enough?
if the material, accuracy, and surface finish adequately address the specific requirements. Additional processes and finishing may be necessary to achieve a realistic feel or appearance. The manufacturing method should be chosen based on the model’s intended purpose and not solely on the available technology.
how can model-building costs be kept down?
through a clear decision criterion and an appropriately limited level of realism. Early, simple models can clarify fundamental questions before detailed surfaces are created. Review the data status before production and specify how subsequent design changes will be handled.
the Perspective of f/p design
design models and, where applicable, functional models are part of our product design process. Before building the models, we work together to determine which design or usability decisions the model’s structure should facilitate. You can find more of our work in the industrial-design-portfolio.
