A prototype is a preliminary model of something. Projects that offer physical products need to show backers documentation of a working prototype. This gallery features photos, videos, and other visual documentation that will give backers a sense of what’s been accomplished so far and what’s left to do. Though the development process can vary for each project, these are the stages we typically see:
Proof of Concept
Explorations that test ideas and functionality.
Functional Prototype
Demonstrates the functionality of the final product, but looks different.
Appearance Prototype
Looks like the final product, but is not functional.
Design Prototype
Appearance and function match the final product, but is made with different manufacturing methods.
Production Prototype
Appearance, function, and manufacturing methods match the final product.
Prototype Gallery
These photos and videos provide a detailed look at this project’s development.
Guitar picks are the bridge between you and your instrument. Like most of us, you surely spent a lot of time choosing your guitar, your favourite pedals, amps, and even the strings or the jack cable. But, what about your pick? You probably didn’t think much about it and you are using the same pick you used early in your career. The sound of an instrument depends highly on the kind of pick you are using.
At ROMBO, we want to rethink this idea and innovate to create a new generation of picks: eco-conscious, functional and stylish.
We want to give you the possibility to spark some creativity testing something new: A family of picks designed for very specific uses that will bring inspiration that might have been missing.
We started from the very beginning and went back to the roots, back to the meaning and the definition of a pick. As a result of the study of the physical properties of a pick, we defined four parameters to precisely describe the pick: attack, flexibility, tone and technique. Changing the form, dimensions and material we can directly influence these parameters:
We spent many months researching the relation between geometrical characteristics, material, and sound. With the help of 3D Modeling software and some engineering and simulations, we adapted these essential properties to create the personality of our picks.
The combination of the following structures was the favourite among our testers. The research in the area of surface finish helped us to find the perfect balance between grip, ergonomics and function.
We selected the best materials for our picks:
The designs of our picks are unique and beautiful. With the help of some basic design rules, we've adapted the surfaces of our guitar picks to create the best ergonomic experience possible.
There is no engraved logo in the hold area and the structure we chose is made of micro-patterns that fit between your fingerprint grooves, creating an extraordinary and comfortable grip. This creates an excellent balance between ergonomics and grip, which is also improved through the different geometries on the hold area.
So far, we manufactured the mould for Rombo Origami (picture above) and the prototypes for the rest of the guitar picks. With this campaign, we want to be able to manufacture the rest of the picks we present you in the next chapter.
Replay with sound
Play with sound
Replay with sound
Play with sound
STRETCH GOAL 1: Stone-Paper DIY pick case - 8.050€ Every pledge gets a DIY guitar pick case made out of Stone-Paper: A very durable and high-quality material that resists everything!
STRETCH GOAL 2: Guitar pick holder - 11.000€ We do not want you to lose your picks! With this goal, we will be able to manufacture a rubber guitar holder. You will get one for free!
STRETCH GOAL 3: Free random pick for every backer - 16.000€ An extra pick for everyone! Additional to your reward, we will send you one surprise pick.
Your support is a huge guiding force for us and only with your help will we be able to make our project happen! However, even if you can't fund our project right now, we will be grateful if you'll tell your friends and followers about us.
Are you a journalist or a blogger? Or do you simply want these images for yourself? If you have any other inquiries please send us an e-mail to: info@rombopicks.com
We have worked very hard and have high confidence that this project will succeed and move forward as planned. However, experience teaches that not everything can be planned for. Here are some risks and challenges associated with this project:
The colours of the picks could differ from the displayed pictures. We are working hard to reach precise colour tolerances that will allow us a stable colour in the manufacturing.
An unexpected high volume of offers (let’s say over 20.000 picks) could affect the delivery time.
The sampling submission process (The process in which we decide, whether the supplier can provide the quality we want or not) can also affect the delivery time. We selected very good injection moulding manufacturers that we already know and don’t expect any problems here.
The shipping: the challenge to undertake is to satisfy 100% of our backers. We will follow closely and answer any claims making sure your guitar picks reach your fingers. All the packages will be tracked so you can see where on earth your picks are.
Carlos Díez Maciá is an engineer and designer living and working in Stuttgart who has worked many years as a product developer. Judith Heindorf is a product manager with a technical background and a business degree. Santi Díez Maciá is an engineer with experience in the area of logistics and industrial organization.
For more information about the project and the process go to www.rombopicks.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. We explain the manufacturing process, show the original sketches, we post short videos testing the prototypes and some insight pictures of the process.