Ask HN: How to kickstart a product idea?

Most of the ideas I've worked on have been web sites or applications, it's a lifecycle I know well.

Yet I keep coming back to a product idea, an electronics device that I really want to develop. I'm unfamiliar with how to develop a proper prototype & find manufacturers etc. Even just to refine the idea first with experts.

I have read a lot of case studies where people have used mfg.com or found suppliers on Alibaba.com

I was wondering if anyone had any other suggestions or experience in building an electronics device.

So far I've had product designs produced (not technical drawings, just aesthetics) I've made a scrappy working prototype from random parts.

I've also done product validation with several groups and have gathered really important feedback.

I'm just wondering what the next step is!

Thanks!