subject: The User Of Rapid Tooling And Rapid Prototyping In Architecture [print this page] Rapid tooling, just as the name suggests, promises to be a faster solution in developing new products. To start off the discussion, you first have to know what rapid tooling really is. As a definition, rapid tooling a 3D CAD-driven process that creates tooling inserts through a layer-by-layer process. A simple definition would be; a means to build or create tool using rapid prototyping process.
As the process progress and innovations of it became apparent, its definition became more and more unclear. Today, some would say that rapid tooling can refer to any process that is significantly faster than the original in terms of manufacturing a tool for the production of components for end-use materials.
If you want to join the bandwagon and try rapid tooling, all you have to do is to refer to the traditional tooling method. From there, think of a way where you can cut back on the process and produce an outcome that is faster and more cost-effective than the original method. However, it is not unknown to many that rapid tooling has its limitations. It is limited in terms of accuracy, resin selection, tool life, surface finish, tool configuration, part size and cycle time.
In every rapid tooling solution, there are at least two limitations present. Sometimes, if you list down the advantage and disadvantages of using rapid tooling compared to the traditional method, you will find out that the latter is more beneficial, even if it requires more time. It would really be advantages for many if rapid tooling is perfected in the future.
If building a house is as cost effective as other products, it would be a different scenario. People can choose the designer house they want not minding the cost of it because of a perfected rapid tooling. As of now, designers are working on mock-up models with the use of prototyping rapid. They do this to identify possible innovations and corrections before building the actual scale.
Full size components of a building are not yet under production in terms of rapid tooling, but the concept has moved to the probable instead of impossible. It would be an exciting notion indeed if house can be made using rapid prototyping. Just think you can build your dream house within a matter of days in less the cost.
