In the complete process that takes an idea to become a reality and be fit to go out into the market, are usually necessary 4 steps: pre-design, solution development, prototype manufacturing and industrialization.
During the predesign the main characteristics that the product will have are defined, both aesthetics and functionality. It is important to settle the concepts well in this phase, since it will avoid cost overruns unforeseen events that may appear later due to not having taken into account all the necessary aspects.
Subsequently, the solution development, arriving at detail of each component. For this, it is necessary to apply the necessary technical knowledge, depending on the product in question (mechanics, electronics, hydraulics, pneumatics, etc.). The result of this phase will normally be manufacturing drawings or a 3D model.
With the completion of the previous stage we already have a design. We just have to validate it. To do this, one or more to prototypes functional that are subjected to the pruebas necessary. Normally for these prototypes technology of Print 3D, which avoids high final manufacturing costs without yet having a closed and validated design. If an electronic part is available, a non-definitive electronic prototype can also be manufactured to allow its functionality to be evaluated. These prototypes can be modified until one is already complete and definitive. This prototype, like minimum viable product, is apt to be presented to possible investors o distributors with the idea of introducing it on the market.
With the finished product, the step of industrialization, consisting of select to the most convenient suppliers and manufacturers based on the commercial strategy (print runs, sales forecast...), approval, CE marking, etc.
With this stage completed, we are ready to mass-produce the product, and only the merchandising.