What is Rapid Prototyping?
Rapid prototyping is the rapid production of a physical part, model, or assembly using 3D computer-aided design (CAD). The creation of a part, model, or subassembly is usually completed using additive manufacturing, or more commonly known as 3D printing.
Rapid prototyping using selective laser melting In cases where the design closely matches the proposed finished product, one speaks of a high-precision prototype, as opposed to a low-precision prototype, where there is a noticeable difference between the prototype and the final product.
How does rapid prototyping work?
Rapid prototyping (RP) includes various manufacturing techniques, although in most cases layer-by-layer additive manufacturing is used. However, other technologies used for RP include high speed machining, injection molding, molding and extrusion.
Although additive manufacturing is the most common rapid prototyping process, other more traditional processes can be used to create prototypes.
These processes include:
Subtractive - in which a block of material is cut into the desired shape by milling, grinding, or turning.
Compression - when a semi-solid or liquid material is shaped into a desired shape before solidification, such as in casting, compression sintering, or moulding.