Function prototyping carries two related meanings. One is the real, full-scale fabrication of an individual product built to the design drawings so that every required function is met - an initial model of the product used to debug and verify that the design is correct. The other is using the sampled original model as the basis for product and process decisions, information transfer and decision-making: deriving the schematic in reverse, and providing the reference for volume engineering, manufacturing, assembly, disassembly and maintenance - covering the product across its whole life cycle from concept design to service.
I. Why it matters
Function prototyping is an important step in the PCB design process because it supplies reliable physical evidence that the design is feasible and ready for trial production. The HYSIM prototyping team controls the process with strict, standardised procedures, meeting the requirements of every stage of function prototype production and keeping on-time delivery, prototype quality and effective records under control - which lowers production risk.
Because the function prototype directly affects how the product performs in real use, building one to test performance comprehensively before volume production is essential. It ensures that any defect or flaw can be remedied and improved early in product development, so the product reaches a mature design. In new product development and generational refresh, function prototyping is an important and indispensable step.
II. More than geometry
Beyond being recorded accurately, every part of a function prototype also carries its assembly relationships with the other parts, technical associations, process, tolerances, human resources, materials, manufacturing resources and cost.
A function prototype should carry all the functions required across the design, manufacturing and maintenance stages, providing a platform for information exchange and decision-making in product and process development, and across the whole product life cycle from concept design to product maintenance.