What role has the computer played in the history of the prototyping process?

Much of the prototyping, especially of complex systems and objects is now done through the use of CAD Programs (computer aided design and drafting) and Modeling software. Advanced CAD allows the designer to analyze an object which does not yet physically exist and find potential flaws in order to refine the design. Once the design is fabricated (usually from the CAD model) or built then it can undergo additional tests to ensure that it is of high quality.