Ask HN: Right Time for Crowdfunding

I've started a company to build a mobile, consumer robot to do your laundry. The vision is that you'll be able to put your dirty clothes in a hamper, and when you get back from work, the robot will have washed, folded, and put your clothes away.

My parents have provided seed funding. At my current burn rate, I should have an additional 12 months to build out the prototype. I'll obviously need more cash at that point to either (1) continue prototype development or (2) start manufacturing.

Is there an ideal time for crowdfunding a product like this? I'd hate to waste time on a crowdfunding campaign if my chances of funding an unfinished prototype are slim, but even just a handful of preorders would add months of runway. Or should I wait until the prototype is complete?