Polywell update from May - sounds like things are going really well!

[OKIsItJustMe]

25. Which brings us to the definitions of words

First, does “they claimed” include Nebel? (I assumed, in this context, that it does. i.e. Nebel was intimately involved in the effort at the time.)

Second, what is a prototype? How is the word used in the context of an invention?
http://www.startupnation.com/steps/97/9053/3/1/invention-prototype-design-development.htm

[font face=Serif][font size=5]Step 3: Prototype Design & Development[/font]

[font size=4]The value of making a prototype[/font]

[font size=3]A prototype is an original model on which something is patterned. A prototype can range from a crude mock-up developed by the inventor to professionally designed virtual prototypes and/or fully-functioning working samples.

The process of taking your idea and turning it into a tangible product is called “reducing the invention to practice” and the first step in this process is the development of a prototype.

When it comes to prototype development, the inventor can utilize a professional prototype company, virtual designer, model maker or construct it on his own. I have seen many prototypes from inventors ranging from cardboard and tape to professionally designed and constructed working samples.

Keep in mind that the prototype process is evolutionary, meaning that you may start with cardboard and evolve the prototype through several iterations over time as you refine your invention.

…[/font][/font]

I would say that WB-8 (and WB-8.1) if they produce controlled fusion, are working prototypes, even though they are not expected to have net energy gain.