A prototype is an original model constructed to include all the technical and performance characteristics of the new product. For example, if a pump for corrosive liquids is being developed, several prototypes are needed for accelerated life tests with different chemicals. A feedback loop exists so that if the prototype tests are not successful, the results can be used for further development of the pump.
The design, construction and testing of prototypes normally falls within the scope of R&D. This applies whether only one or several prototypes are made and whether they are made consecutively or simultaneously. However, when any necessary modifications to the prototype(s) have been made and testing has been satisfactorily completed, the end-point of R&D has been reached. The construction of several copies of a prototype to meet a temporary commercial, military or medical need after successful testing of the original, even if undertaken by R&D staff, is not part of R&D. The virtualisation of prototyping could follow the same rules, and it will be included in R&D as far as the testing activity is part of an R&D project and is aimed at collecting evidence essential for achieving the objectives of the project.
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