This is where the Mr Beam laser cutter comes in: a revolutionary solution that is reshaping the landscape of prototyping. Thanks to its precision, flexibility and ease of use, Mr Beam allows you to create high-quality prototypes quickly and easily. Whether it's complex geometric shapes or fine details, Mr Beam is capable of bringing your vision to life with unparalleled accuracy.
Prototype construction with the Mr Beam
With our laser cutter, you can easily develop and build your own prototypes. Arrange a demo appointment to have Mr Beam explained to you.
The vision becomes reality - develop your prototype
Prototype construction plays a crucial role in numerous industries, from innovative orthopaedic technology to detailed architecture to creative model making. It enables developers, designers and engineers to quickly and efficiently transform their ideas into physical models to test and improve function, design and user experience. But the path from the idea to a tangible prototype is often filled with challenges. Traditional manufacturing methods can be time-consuming and costly, limiting the complexity of desired designs and preventing rapid iteration. In addition, there are specific requirements of different application areas that require a flexible and precise machining method to meet a wide variety of materials and design requirements.
The future of prototyping
Precision meets flexibility
“Precision meets flexibility” – this motto embodies the essence of the Mr Beam laser cutter and is translated into reality through our specially developed Mr Beam software and the impressive variety of materials that can be processed. The intuitive software is one of the essential elements of our desktop laser cutter. It allows you to design your prototypes with ease, as the user interface is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Whether it's implementing complex designs or the attention to detail in fine engravings - the software ensures that your vision is realized with the highest precision. Simply load your laser file into the workspace, select existing material settings and start your laser job!
From wood to acrylic: Mr Beam can do it all
In addition, the Mr Beam laser cutter offers the flexibility to process a wide range of materials. From wood, leather and felt to paper and acrylic and many others, it enables cutting and engraving with unparalleled accuracy. This variety of materials opens up unlimited possibilities for applications in various areas. The Mr Beam laser cutter is therefore not only a tool for precision and flexibility, but also a creative partner that helps to redefine the limits of what is possible in prototype construction.
Your advantages when building prototypes
When building prototypes, there are several key factors that can determine the success of the entire development process. The Mr Beam supports you optimally in this process.
Safety first
The Mr Beam belongs to laser class 1.
Large work surface
Work surface 500mm x 390mm x 38mm. Can be extended up to 68mm thanks to Height Extension.
Efficient laser
Strong & highly efficient shortwave laser with up to 10 W (450nm).
Low follow-up costs
Little maintenance and continuous software updates.
Smart security case
The case is made of metal with a transparent protective cover.
Can be used indoors (with air filter)
No construction work is necessary for indoor operation.
Plug & play software
Browser-based plug & play software for Mac, Windows, Linux and tablets (without installation).
Made in Germany
Quality made in Germany.
"They slow us down to speed us up. By taking time to prototype our ideas, we avoid costly mistakes like becoming too complex soon and holding on to a weak idea for too long."
Tim Brown (CEO of international design and innovation company IDEO) - While preliminary considerations are important, they do not constitute the entire process. Although immersing yourself in user needs, delving deeper into the problem, and innovating through brainstorming sessions can create the appearance of a best-in-class solution, prototyping remains essential to success.
Mr Beam - Smart tool for prototype building
Suitable tools are essential for the realization of complex prototypes. Typically, tools such as scissors, cutting rulers, fine saws or CNC milling machines are used. However, using these traditional prototyping tools can present various challenges. Processing materials often takes a lot of time and can cause disappointment, especially if the result falls short of expectations. This often leads to increased material consumption due to necessary corrections. Milling in particular can result in frayed edges that require additional finishing to ensure a clean finish. Using milling and grinding machines also requires a suitable work area, which not everyone has at home or in the office. The Mr Beam laser cutter offers the ideal solution to these problems. It makes it possible to cut materials with the highest precision, while you can already plan the next steps of your project. The edges usually do not require any further processing after cutting - this makes prototype construction child's play!
Find the right material for your prototype
We provide creative people with smart tools to make their work easier. That's why we make sure that you can use the Mr Beam to process a variety of materials in order to optimally develop your prototype.
laser plastic
Plastics can represent attractive solutions, especially for prototype construction. Process foam, polypropylene or acrylic and complete your prototype.
Laser wood
Lasering wood is a true classic with the Mr Beam. It doesn't matter whether you're working with poplar plywood, balsa wood or solid wood. The results are always convincing!
Laser paper
Do you want to cut paper or cardboard precisely? This is also possible with the Mr Beam without any problems. Adjust the settings to your needs and laser away!
Lasering textiles
Textile finishing is also a popular application. Upcycle your old denim jacket and create a real eye-catcher!
Case Study: Stefan builds prototypes with the Mr Beam
In our #beamies series, we have a case study for you of how Stefan builds a prototype using the Mr Beam laser cutter. He presents his special project and talks about his experiences, how Mr Beam supported him and accelerated the process.
Mr Beam Community - as diverse as prototype construction!
With Mr Beam you not only get an all-in-one tool for prototyping , but also access to a vibrant community that shares their projects and offers each other support. The Mr Beam Community is the heart and motivation of our work. We regularly accept feedback on our software and device to make continuous improvements. The exchange within the community is an essential part of what defines Mr Beam. You can find inspiration directly from our users on Instagram using the hashtag #madewithmrbeam. The variety of laser cut results reflects the wide range of topics in prototype construction. Become part of our community and create your prototypes with the Mr Beam laser cutter!
Our Mr Beam laser cutters
Mr Beam II dreamcut [S] Laser Head + Air Filter System
The Mr Beam II dreamcut [S] is particularly suitable for particularly filigree and precise engravings! It is of course also possible to cut materials
Mr Beam II with dreamcut [x] laser head + air filter system
If the focus is more on cutting materials, we recommend this Mr Beam. This allows you to double your output when lasering.
Known from:
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The Mr Beam is really super easy to use, even without a lot of technical knowledge.
Natalia Fercho
It's incredibly fun to work with. -
Purchasing Mr Beam got me back into working with wood and is just what I was fortunately missing.
Dagmar Rohweder -
The delivery was quick and if you have any questions, you will get an answer within a very short time. We can only recommend Mr Beam and his team :-).
Michael Mueller -
I bought my Mr Beam 2 months ago and made a very personal dream of a small business possible. I'm excited!
Ruta Völker
Mr Beam Blog - Get inspired
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With imaginative decoration trends for summer 2024, you can beautify your balcony and terrace in particular. ☀️ Find out more now! more -
by Mr Beam Lasers
#beamies - Mr Beam at RWTH Aachen
In this #beamies article, we would like to give you an insight into how the Mr Beam is used by students at RWTH Aachen. ➡️ Find out more now! more -
by Mr Beam Lasers
What is beech wood? Mr Beam explains
Beech wood is a versatile raw material with special advantages. ➡️ Find out more in our guide to beech wood! more
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What is a Prototype?
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A prototype is an early, functional model of a product that is developed to test and evaluate design concepts, technical feasibility, functionality, and user interaction. It is used to put ideas and assumptions into a physical form to collect feedback from users, identify problems and make improvements before a product goes into mass production.
Prototypes can be created at various stages of development, from very simple models that only illustrate the basic idea ( low-fidelity prototypes ), to highly sophisticated versions that very accurately represent the final product ( high-fidelity prototypes). The use of prototypes is common in many fields such as product development, engineering, software development and design to save time and costs and improve the quality and usability of the final product.
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How do I build a prototype?
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You can divide the construction of a prototype into several basic steps. Here is a general guide that can help you:
- Clearly define the idea : Start with a clear idea of what you want to create. What is the goal of your prototype? What should he demonstrate or test?
- Research and Planning : Research existing solutions and gather information about your target audience. Plan what features your prototype should have and what problems it will solve.
- Design and sketching : Design your product. This can range from simple paper sketches to detailed digital designs, depending on what makes the most sense for your prototype.
- Choice of materials and tools : Decide on the materials and tools you need to create your prototype. Consider functionality, appearance and cost.
Creating an initial prototype (low-fidelity prototype) : Start with a simple model that represents the basic idea of your product. This step is used to visualize the concept quickly and cost-effectively and to receive initial feedback.- Collect and analyze feedback : Present your prototype to potential users or stakeholders and collect feedback. Pay attention to both positive feedback and criticism.
- Iterate and improve : Use the feedback you collect to revise and improve your prototype. This process can be repeated several times until you achieve a satisfactory result.
- Create a more detailed prototype (high-fidelity prototype) : Once the basic design and features are established, create a more detailed and functional prototype that is closer to the final product.
Final testing : Conduct comprehensive testing on your high-fidelity prototype to ensure all features work as intended and the product is user-friendly.- Preparing for Production : Once your prototype is completed and tested, you can begin preparing for mass production. This includes optimizing the design for manufacturing, selecting appropriate manufacturing processes and calculating production costs.
Remember that the prototyping process is flexible and should be customized to meet the needs of your specific project.
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What materials do I use when building prototypes?
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The choice of materials when building prototypes depends largely on the type of prototype, the stage of development, the functional requirements and the available budget. Here are some common materials used in various phases of prototyping:
Early stages (low-fidelity prototypes)
Paper and Cardboard : Ideal for very early, simple models to visualize the design concept.
Foam and Styrofoam : Good for slightly more detailed, but still inexpensive and quick modelling.
Wood : For slightly more robust models that allow for some processing, but are still relatively simple and inexpensive.
Plasticine or modeling clay : Allows quick shape changes and is ideal for ergonomic studies.
Later stages (high-fidelity prototypes)
Plastics (such as ABS, PLA, PETG) : Widely used in 3D printing technology and for detailed, functional prototypes that are close to the final product.- Metals (such as aluminum or steel) : For parts requiring high strength or thermal conductivity, often used in mechanical components or for end-user testing.
- Silicone and Rubber : For flexible parts or components intended to provide seals or grips.
- Resins : Used in stereolithography (SLA) or digital light processing (DLP) for prototypes with very high levels of detail.
Specialized materials
- Electronic components : For prototypes that contain electronic functions, including LEDs, microcontrollers (such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi), sensors, and circuits.
Glass or Ceramic : Specific to industries where these materials are key, although less common in general prototyping.- Composites and Composites : For special applications that require a combination of lightness and high strength, such as in aerospace or automotive manufacturing.
Deciding on specific materials should also take into account the methods used to make the prototype, such as CNC milling, laser cutting, 3D printing or handcrafting, as not all materials are suitable for every technique. It is also important to think about the entire life cycle of the prototype, including aspects such as durability, cost, availability and environmental impact. The Mr Beam can definitely support you in both phases of prototype construction, depending on the material. You are also welcome to send us materials for testing. Simply contact our sales team.
Frequently asked questions about prototyping
Interesting prototype applications
Laser applications
Here you can get an overview of all applications with our laser cutter. Find out more now and discover further possibilities in prototype construction!
Engraving metal
With the Mr Beam and the marksolid laser marking spray, it is possible to engrave metal. This way you can refine or label metal cladding for your prototypes.
Wood laser
With the Mr Beam you can cut and engrave many different types of wood. Get an overview here to find out more. Ideal for prototype construction!
Cutting plastic
Do you need to cut plastic for your prototype projects? This is also partially possible with the Mr Beam laser cutter. Find out more now!