Is there a word for the tangible equivalent of visualization?

Solution 1:

To make something tangible is to make it real; realize is the usual term for this process, so realization would describe making an abstract dataset into something real.

A 3D printer allows the realization of abstract mathematical surfaces in polycarbonate.

Solution 2:

Some words usually adduced for such meaning are:
• embodiment (“a physical entity typifying an abstraction”),
• incarnation (“A person or thing regarded as embodying or exhibiting some quality, idea, or the like”),
• manifestation (“”The embodiment of an intangible, or variable thing), and
• reification, of which wikipedia says: “Reification generally refers to making something real, bringing it into being, or making something concrete. ...” Note, some people are allergic to the word reification (ie, will harshly criticize its use in almost any context) so do not use it widely or generally.

Solution 3:

Corporealization - to give physical form to. Not very often used, but it is a real word.

Solution 4:

That is usually called a prototype. It is still not a finished product and very much a part of the visualisation process. It may or may not be tangible depending upon the delivery medium of the product, cost of the project and is usually made for the sake of usability studies in order to refine the product more before finally entering the development phase.

Solution 5:

In the teaching profession where the use of tangible objects as teaching aids is common these are often referred to as manipulables