What role does prototyping play in engineering design?

Prototyping is a critical aspect of the engineering design process, primarily because it enables engineers to test and validate their ideas in a tangible way. By creating a prototype, designers can quickly and inexpensively explore various concepts, functionalities, and designs before committing to full-scale production. This hands-on testing can reveal design flaws, usability issues, or performance shortcomings that may not be apparent in the theoretical or digital stages of design. Furthermore, prototypes can be iteratively refined based on feedback and testing results, ultimately leading to a more effective and efficient final product. This iterative cycle of development and testing is essential for innovation and improving product quality.