DESIGN & PROTOTYPING
Prototyping built into the development process
A STRUCTURED APPROACH
For decades, we’ve supported clients through every stage of product development by designing, building and refining prototypes that de-risk decisions and accelerate progress toward manufacture.
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Whether you need a quick proof of concept or a fully integrated functional prototype, we provide a structured, engineering-led approach to prototyping.
“We don’t just build prototypes, we define what needs to be proven, and how to prove it.”
We guide you through each stage, ensuring the right level of prototype is developed at the right time:
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Early-stage feasibility and concept validation
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Iterative development prototypes
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Functional and user testing builds
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Pre-production verification
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This ensures time and budget are used effectively, while reducing downstream risk.
Prototyping is not a single step, it’s a controlled process of iteration, validation and refinement.
Our prototyping capabilities
Proof of Concept & Feasibility
Early prototypes to validate core principles before significant investment.
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Mechanism and architecture testing
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Engineering mock-ups
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Breadboard electronics
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Material and process exploration
INTEGRATED WITH DESIGN AND ENGINEERING
Prototyping at LA Design is embedded within the wider development programme:
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Industrial design, engineering and prototyping delivered as one workflow
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Continuous iteration between CAD, analysis and physical validation
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Early consideration of manufacturing constraints and cost
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Clear progression from prototype to production​
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This reduces rework, shortens timelines and ensures better decisions throughout the process.
“We don’t just build prototypes, we define what needs to be proven, and how to prove it.”
DEVELOPMENT PROTOTYPES
Iterative builds to refine design, function and manufacturability
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CAD-driven prototype iterations
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Tolerance and fit validation
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Assembly development
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Design for manufacture (DFM) progression
FUNCTIONAL PROTOTYPES
Fully or partially working prototypes to simulate real-world use
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Mechanical and electronic integration
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Performance testing
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Usability validation
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Environmental and durability considerations
APPEARANCE MODELS
High-quality models to communicate design intent and validate Colours, Materials and finishes
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Form, colour, material and finish evaluation
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Stakeholder and investor models
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User research artefacts
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Marketing-ready visuals
PRE-PRODUCTION, PILOT BUILDS & BATCH PRODUCTION
Final verification before committing to tooling and manufacture
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Low-volume builds
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Manufacturing process validation
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Supplier engagement and support
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Assembly and test procedures
We take a collaborative, guided approach
HOW WE SUPPORT YOU
Final verification before committing to tooling and manufacture
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We take a collaborative, guided approach:
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Define the objective of each prototype stage
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Recommend appropriate processes and fidelity
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Manage build, iteration and refinement
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Provide clear technical feedback and next steps
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Whether you are developing a new product from scratch or refining an existing design, we ensure you always know what is being tested, why, and what comes next.
This delivers
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Reduced development risk
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Faster, more informed decision making
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Improved product performance and manufacturability
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A clearer pathway to production