Some of the high schools now have tech programs with 3D printers who will print out your item for the cost of material…in my area about one dollar per square inch.

try protomold they are pretty good
.

Is this something that can be drawn in pieces in two dimensions then laser-cut and assembled? I’ve done this multiple times for very little cost. I draw the parts on Autocad, then give it to my local laser guy here in SoCal. Let me know if interested and I can send contact info.

There are quite a few good companies out there that can help you make a prototype for plastic parts but it depends on what you are looking for. If you can provide more details I can tell you the places that I use for the different processes. If you want something inexpensive and be close to the actual shape I would suggest a rapid prototyping process rather than a rapid injection molding.

You must be careful though in choosing the right process. Some processes work better than others depending on the size of the part and the detail needed. Here is a good overview on wikipedia of the main processes:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rapid_prototyping#Technologies

Remember that for any of the processes you will need CAD drawings of the part. A good engineer should be able to provide you with these for a fee.

Mark
Mechanical Engineer
Gensenius Engineering Services
gensenius.com

I have a mechanical bent and a welder so I make mine

Check your local community college

I make my own prototypes out of materials like PVC piping, plexiglass, plastic bottles…etc. You may be surprised what you can do using heat to form and hot glue to join. PVC piping and fittings from your local hardware using the the corresponding cement to fuse parts togethar is great for prototyping. Although you won’t get a perfectly formed part it could be enough to get your point across for adequate demo of your product.

I also posted quite a bit of information on prototype creation. Use the green search button top right of this page and hopefully you will find what you need. Keep in mind most, if not all, prototype makers require a 3D drawing of your item usually in .STL format to proceed. If you only have hand drawings prepare to pay more to get those into a usuable format. RedEye online is one of the 3D Printer services I mentioned before and they allow you to upload your .STL file, and get an instant quote. You should be able to get a part made for less than $250-300 most places depending on size. Good Luck!

Thread link- http://www.edisonnation.com/forums/manufacturin...

patrick, check out my past response under PRICE topic for making a prototype,give me a call and i will be happy to give you a quote. Cleve Smith