Question

A prototype is a

Select one:
a. strategy that guarantees a solution to a problem.
b. representation of the average or ideal member for a concept.
c. tendency to search for and use information that supports our ideas rather than refutes them.
d. way in which information is processed and manipulated in the decision-making process.

Answer 1

A prototype is a preliminary model used to test and refine design choices, ensuring that the final product will meet the desired specifications and perform as expected. It ranges from simple to comprehensive representations of the product concept.

Step-by-step explanation:

A prototype is essentially a preliminary version of a product or concept that is built to test the design. The purpose of creating a prototype is to evaluate the functionality, discover flaws, and refine the design based on tests and feedback. Prototypes may range from very simple models that test a particular aspect of the design to comprehensive ones that represent the entire product. For instance, when designing a new type of solar-powered vehicle, a team may initially develop a prototype of just the electrical system before moving on to a full-scale model.

Using prototypes is a key step in the design process, which involves problem-solving strategy and a method for solving problems. A prototype serves as the best representation of a concept and is vital in the iterative process of design improvement. The testing of prototypes ensures that the design will meet specified constraints and performance criteria before final production.