At the Chair of Product Development, the Prototyping Lab brings ideas to life, enables the experimental investigation of development processes, and supports the systematic testing of innovative solutions. As a research and development facility, the lab combines modern manufacturing technologies with systematic prototyping methods and empirical research into product development processes.

The extensive range of equipment includes conventional tools, laser cutters and various 3D printing technologies such as SLA, FDM and SLS. This enables concepts to be realised quickly, different variants to be developed iteratively, and technical questions to be investigated experimentally. The integrated test rig also allows for more demanding experimental and testing setups.

A key focus of our research is the planning, execution and evaluation of prototyping processes. The lab also provides an infrastructure for collaboration with industry. In particular, SMEs can benefit from the combination of modern manufacturing technologies and scientific expertise to test new concepts and technologies, investigate development challenges experimentally, or make their prototyping processes more systematic and efficient.

An integrated Makerspace provides a flexible environment for workshops, teaching and collaborative development activities. In addition to a wide range of tools and equipment, it offers mobile workstations and an 85-inch Smartboard, supporting collaborative and hands-on approaches to product development.

• Dr.-Ing. Stefan Pakusa