A prototype is an early, tangible model or sample of a product created to test, evaluate, or demonstrate its design, functionality, or concept before full-scale production. It serves as a working representation to validate ideas, identify issues, or gather feedback, often used in industries like manufacturing, engineering, or software development. For a company like Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd., prototypes might be made using CNC machining, 3D printing, or other methods to refine products for sectors like aerospace or automotive.