Можно ли раскрасить модели-прототипы, и как это сделать?

Прототип модели—used for design validation, Клиентские презентации, or functional testing—often need coloring to mimic final products, enhance visual appeal, or highlight design details. The answer to “Can prototype model be colored?” is a resounding yes—but success depends on choosing the right timing (до, в течение, or after lamination) and method. This article breaks down three core coloring stages, ключевые методы, Совместимость материала, and practical tips to help you achieve consistent, Высококачественные результаты.

1. Coloring Before Lamination: Lay a Precise Color Foundation

Coloring before lamination focuses on prepping the prototype’s base surface, ensuring the final color aligns with design requirements (НАПРИМЕР., Pantone standards). Two main methods dominate this stage, each ideal for specific prototype types.

1.1 Ink Blending for Patterned/Printed Prototypes

Принцип:

If the prototype’s surface needs patterns (НАПРИМЕР., логотипы, текстуры) or a uniform color base, adjust ink colors до printing or applying the pattern. This uses standard color references to mix inks to the exact tone, avoiding post-lamination color mismatches.

Пошаговый процесс:

1. Reference a color standard (НАПРИМЕР., Pantone Color Chart) to confirm the target hue, saturation, and brightness.
2. Mix base inks (НАПРИМЕР., голубой, пурпурный, yellow for CMYK systems) in precise proportions (НАПРИМЕР., 60% синий + 30% белый + 10% black for light blue).
3. Conduct trial printing on a small sample of the prototype material (НАПРИМЕР., АБС, смола) and compare it to the target color.
4. Adjust the ink ratio (НАПРИМЕР., добавлять 5% more white for a softer tone) and retest until the match is perfect.

Лучше всего для:

Prototypes with detailed patterns (НАПРИМЕР., consumer electronics housings with brand logos), architectural models with texture, or parts requiring brand-specific colors.

1.2 Primer Color Adjustment for Base Tone Alignment

Принцип:

For prototypes that need lamination (НАПРИМЕР., palm lamination), spray a primer first and add color toners (НАПРИМЕР., color essence) to the primer to match the final desired base color. This creates a uniform underlayer that enhances lamination color vibrancy.

Практический пример:

To make a wood-grain prototype:

• Начните с прозрачной или светло-бежевой грунтовки..
• Добавьте эссенцию коричневого цвета (1–2 капли на 100мл праймера) чтобы соответствовать теплому тону натурального дуба.
• Равномерно распылите грунтовку на прототип., отсутствие полос — эта основа обеспечивает плавное смешивание последующей ламинирующей пленки с текстурой древесины..

Лучше всего для:

Текстурированные прототипы (НАПРИМЕР., модели мебели под дерево, архитектурные элементы под камень) или части, где ламинационная пленка нуждается в дополнительной основе.

2. Coloring During Lamination: Simplify with Pre-Colored Materials

Coloring during lamination leverages pre-colored or composite lamination films to skip complex pre-painting steps. Этот метод быстр, рентабельный, and ideal for prototypes needing consistent color across large batches.

2.1 Choose Pre-Colored Lamination Films

Key Material Options:

The market offers a wide range of colored lamination films, each with unique properties to match prototype needs. The table below compares common options:

Применение:

For a light blue consumer electronics prototype, skip pre-painting and directly apply a light blue PET film—this cuts coloring time by 50% and ensures uniform color across all parts.

2.2 Composite Color Mixing for Fine Tones

Принцип:

For prototypes needing nuanced colors (НАПРИМЕР., soft pastels, gradient effects), layer multiple films to blend tones. The base film provides the main color, while additional transparent or tinted films adjust depth and gloss.

Пример:

To create a gradient pink prototype:

1. Apply a thin layer of light pink PET film as the base.
2. Add a transparent gloss film with a subtle pink tint on top—this deepens the color slightly and adds shine.
3. For a gradient effect, trim the top film to cover only 70% of the prototype, blending the light pink base with the enhanced top layer.

Лучше всего для:

Design-focused prototypes (НАПРИМЕР., модные аксессуары, игрушечные модели) where color depth and texture matter.

3. Coloring After Lamination: Fix Defects & Adjust Tones

Even with careful pre- and during-lamination coloring, prototypes may need touch-ups. This stage focuses on correcting flaws and modifying colors without damaging the lamination.

3.1 Local Repair & Color Correction

Общие проблемы & Решения:

Кончик:

Test the pigment/repair pen on a hidden area of the prototype first to ensure it doesn’t peel or discolor the lamination.

3.2 Overall Recoloring (For Major Adjustments)

When to Use:

If the prototype’s color is drastically off (НАПРИМЕР., too dark vs. the design) or needs a full color change (НАПРИМЕР., from red to black), remove the existing lamination and restart the coloring process.

Пошаговый процесс:

1. Gently peel off the old lamination film (use a heat gun on low setting to soften adhesive, if needed—avoid temperatures above 80°C to prevent prototype damage).
2. Clean the prototype surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove residual adhesive.
3. Reapply primer (При необходимости) and choose a new coloring method (НАПРИМЕР., pre-colored film, ink blending) to achieve the target color.

Осторожность:

This method is time-consuming (adds 2–3 hours to the process) and risks damaging delicate prototypes (НАПРИМЕР., resin models). Use it only as a last resort.

4. Yigu Technology’s Perspective on Prototype Coloring

В Yigu Technology, we believe prototype coloring should align with the prototype’s purpose—don’t overcomplicate it. For functional test prototypes, we recommend pre-colored PET film (быстрый, бюджетный, и долговечный). For client presentation prototypes, we combine ink blending (for precise brand colors) with composite film layers (for texture). Many clients waste time on overall recoloring when local repairs would suffice—our team always tests color samples first to avoid major adjustments. We also match coloring methods to materials: for resin prototypes, we use photosensitive inks before lamination; for ABS prototypes, we prefer PET film during lamination. В конечном счете, the best coloring strategy balances speed, расходы, and visual/functional needs—not just achieving the “perfect” color.

Часто задаваемые вопросы: Common Questions About Coloring Prototype Models

1. Q.: Can I use regular spray paint to color a laminated prototype?

А: Нет. Regular spray paint won’t adhere to lamination films (НАПРИМЕР., ДОМАШНИЙ ПИТОМЕЦ, ПВХ) and may peel off. Use only pigment or repair pens designed for the specific film material—check the manufacturer’s recommendations first.

2. Q.: Is it better to color before or during lamination for large-batch prototypes?

А: During lamination (pre-colored films) лучше. It’s faster (no individual painting), ensures uniform color across all parts, and reduces labor costs—critical for batches of 50+ прототипы.

3. Q.: Могу ли я добиться цветов, соответствующих Pantone, с помощью слоев композитной пленки??

А: Да, но это требует точности. Начните с базовой пленки, близкой к цвету Pantone., затем добавьте тонкие тонированные пленки для регулировки. Проверьте каждый слой с помощью цветометра Pantone, чтобы убедиться в выравнивании — лучше всего это работает для сплошных цветов., не градиенты.