VOLKENGINEERING
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P.10Inventors & project owners

Designing the prototype of your invention

An idea for an object, tool or mechanism: it is analysed, designed in 3D and turned into a working prototype, with the drawings to take it further.

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FIG. 10 — Prototype & invention

An idea, and the wish to see it work

A tool you're missing, a mechanism imagined in the workshop, an object that doesn't exist yet: between the idea and a working prototype lie technical choices. Shape, material, mechanism, manufacturing. That is the design engineer's job, applied to your project.

From idea to prototype

  1. Analysis — what the object must do, its constraints, its real use.
  2. Concept — one or more technical solutions, explained and compared.
  3. 3D design — complete model, parts and assembly.
  4. Prototype — 3D printing to validate the shape, a machined part for tests that need strength.
  5. Tests and corrections — test, correct, repeat if necessary.

Which prototype for what?

A form prototype checks appearance and handling; a functional prototype checks that the mechanism really works. The right choice depends on what must be proven, and on budget: no point machining what a 3D print can validate.

And after the prototype?

The model and drawings are yours: you can have a few copies made, present the project to a partner or consult manufacturers. The drawings are prepared for that (see machining drawings).

Frequently asked questions

Does my idea stay confidential?

Yes. Nothing is shared or reused, and a non-disclosure agreement can be signed before the first technical discussion.

Should I file a patent before telling you about it?

If you are considering a patent, seek advice from INPI (the French patent office) or an IP attorney before any public disclosure. A non-disclosure agreement protects our discussions, but Volk Engineering does not file patents.

I only have a drawing on paper: is that enough?

Yes. That's often how a project starts: the first discussion is about understanding the idea and seeing how to make it feasible.

How much does a prototype cost?

It depends on the complexity of the object and the type of prototype. After a first discussion, you receive a costed proposal, step by step.

02Process

From need to deliverable, step by step.

Every step is shared with you. You know what is being done, why, and what comes next.

  1. 01

    Idea

    Function, constraints, use.

  2. 02

    Design

    Concept, 3D model.

  3. 03

    Prototype

    Test part, first trials.

  4. 04

    Next steps

    Corrections, drawings, manufacturing.

03Price guide

How much does a part cost?

It all depends on the part: its size, material, process and quantity.

Part already designedListed price

Available in the shop, ready to order.

Custom partFree quote

After a first exchange and a look at your photos.

VAT not applicable, art. 293 B of the French General Tax Code.

04Other services

Another need? It all comes from the same expertise.

05Contact

Let's talk about your part.

Describe your part and attach photos, dimensions or files.

  • Reply within 48 hbusiness days
  • Free quoteno obligation
  • Privacynon-disclosure agreement on request
  • A single point of contactfrom the first exchange to delivery

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    After you send it

    1. I read your requestand your files, within 48 business hours.
    2. I get back to youby phone or e-mail, with my questions.
    3. You receive a quotefree and with no obligation.