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Many Prototypes Can be Created From Simple Materials.
By Ken Tarlow
Many proof of concept models can be made of paper board or "Foam Core" board. Art supply stores carry these materials. Paper board models are great to show size and shape and basic features. They can also be made quickly on your kitchen table with inexpensive tools.
Paper board should be stiff (about 1/16" thick) and be able to be scored (a method of cutting part way through the material with an exacto knife or mat knife so it will fold without cutting all the way through) and bent. I use "museum board" because it's the same color all the way through. So if I make a score, the exposed edge is a uniform color. You can actually sand museum board with 400 sandpaper to smooth the edges.
Foam core board is a sandwich construction with paper on the outside and white foam on the inside. It is strong and lightweight and easy to cut. Always use a sharp new knife blade for best results. Mark the area to be cut and use an aluminum straight edge ruler, and watch those fingers! You'll need them later on.
Use white glue for joining edges. Edges must be joined without gaps. You'll need very little glue for the process. More glue means longer dry time. Use drafting tape or push pins to hold glued joints in place while drying. Curves may be obtained by making multiple light scores and bending.
USEFUL SUPPLIES FOR PAPER BOARD MODELS
* Paper Board--Museum board for the same color all the way through. About 1/16" thick. Comes in black, gray or white.* Crescent Board--Comes in assorted colors for the top coat. Crescent board is white inside.
* Foam Core Board--Strong and light, with paper outside, foam inside. Varies in thickness from 1/16" to 1/2". I usually use 1/4 inch board.
* Straight Edge--A 36-inch or 48-inch aluminum ruler works well.
* Exacto or Mat Knife--Use #2 blades in Exacto Knife. Get plenty of blades--you'll need to replace them often to maintain a good, clean cut.
* Chipboard--Watch out not to cut the kitchen table.
* White Glue--Like Elmer's.
* Push Pins, Drafting Tape, a surface to work on.
Finished paper board models can be covered with an outer layer of colored (glazed) paper or metallic paper. Cut paper size and apply "3M Spray Ment" on the back of the paper. Then stick it to the model. Be careful in alignment--once it's stuck, it's hard to pick up again.
NEXT ISSUE: More on Prototypes
The above article was excerpted from Ken Tarlow's MIND TO MONEY, a cassette tape/workbook package that can help you develop a new product from the idea stage to the marketplace. MIND TO MONEY may be ordered from the Dream Merchant at $59.95 plus $4.95 CA sales tax and$5 shipping and handling ($69.90 total). Send orders to the Dream Merchant, 2309 Torrance Blvd., Suite 104, Torrance, CA 90501.
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