I have an idea for an electrical product. Anyone have any advice on how to develop a prototype, search to see if the product already exists, patents etc?
You can get rapid prototyping done, which is basicly getting somebody to design a part on 3D CAD and you send the CAD file off to somebody to make a fullsize or scaled 3D component. There are lots of companies out there who offer various levels of quality etc., google rapid prototyping.
I used the product team in Cork (www.theproductteam.com) for my electrical product; [broken link removed]
They developed the prototype and carried out feasibility studies etc and now they are manufacturing for me. They were a great help at the start of the project and I highly recommend them.
I use Amtech in the UK a lot www.amtech-rp.co.uk (ask for Ian) Great service, very quick and reliable. I am a product designer so if you need any help, or have any questions just PM me. Will be happy to advise.