Which term describes the creation of physical or digital prototypes to test size, shape, function or assembly before final manufacture?

• A. Evaluation
• B. Sustainability
• C. Product life cycle
• D. Modelling

Answer: (D)

Creating physical or digital prototypes to test size, shape, function, or how parts fit together before final manufacture is modelling. This practice uses scale models or CAD-based representations to explore dimensions, geometry, clearances, and assembly, allowing issues to be spotted early and saving time and cost in production. It can involve digital simulations or hands-on physical builds, like 3D-printed parts or mock-ups.

Evaluation is about judging performance after development, not prototyping. Sustainability focuses on environmental impact, not the prototyping process. The product life cycle covers the stages a product goes through from concept to disposal, rather than the act of making prototypes to test designs.