What is a full-scale working model used to test a design concept called?

A full-scale working model used to test a design concept is called a prototype. Prototypes serve as tangible representations of a design, allowing engineers and designers to assess the practicality, functionality, and overall performance of their ideas. They enable testing in real-world environments and provide insights that help refine and improve the final product before moving into production.

Creating a prototype is crucial because it helps in identifying design flaws and making necessary adjustments. It often incorporates materials and components that reflect what will be used in the final product, allowing for accurate testing of aspects such as usability, durability, and efficiency.

Other terms mentioned, such as scale model and mock-up, refer to different kinds of models. Scale models represent smaller versions of the object and are primarily used for visual representation or studies related to scale, while mock-ups are typically not functional and are used for concepts in the design stage or for visual and spatial assessment. Simulations involve computer-generated models that replicate the behavior of a system but do not provide a physical interaction as prototypes do.