subject: Rapid Prototyping Is A Valuable Method With Lots Of Advantages To Offer [print this page] Rapid prototyping or RP is an advanced method for the fast production of a prototype. There is a specialized RP machine used to be able to do this function. True to its name, it is able to create prototypes quite rapidly depending on how complex and how big the design is. Another terms for rapid prototyping is computer automated manufacturing, layered manufacturing and solid free-form fabrication.
Having prototypes will help with the communication of the designer and the user for they will be able to visualize the final outcome a lot better. They would be able to test the functionality of the product and assess whether it is already fit for mass production. It will also avoid manufacturing mistakes in the future thereby saving on unnecessary costs.
Aside from the use of verifying and testing, rapid prototyping can also produce short run parts. This method is now known as rapid manufacturing. To be able to produce the prototypes, a computer aided design (CAD) model is needed aside from the machine itself. The virtual design is then created into the actual piece layer by layer. Materials that can be used in this method includes plastic, was, metal and resin.
Here is a more detailed description of the entire process. First, the CAD model is created and then converted into an STL file format. Note that the RP machine can only read files in this format. Next, the machine will then read the file and make cross sections of it. When the first layer is finished, the layering begins again until the desired thickness is achieved. The completed model is shown to the stakeholders for testing. Rapid prototyping manufacturing is repeated if the result is unsatisfactory.
Rapid prototyping manufacturers are called for when there is a need to have a prototype created to be tested by designers and users. There are often barriers between a 2D drawing and the actual model so it is quite hard to depend only on the former. Prototypes are also an effective tool to attract investors.
The cost of Rapid prototyping manufacturing will depend on the complexity and size of the invention. There are rapid prototyping services over the internet which companies can ask for quotes. Do not choose the service based on price alone. Evaluate also the quality of service they offer.
