Rapid Prototyping - Processes & Materials in Manufacturing

Using CAD it is possible to create several parts to study and test in a short time period.
Most rapid prototyping is not used in high or moderate volumes.


Methods include:

• stereolithography(SLA): based on UV light source, thermoset.
  
• 3-D printing: newer process, similar to an ink jet printer.
  
• rapid casting
• laminated layers
• optical fabrication
• solid base curing
• fused deposition modeling(FDM): plastics model made in minuets, layer upon layer to build the desired shape, thermoplastic.

Full Scale Functional Prototype(FSFP): based on 3-D printing, creates very complex molds and parts, CAD data to casting in hours.

• functional prototype parts
• jewelry
• die casting dies
• forging dies
• dental restorations
• sand casting molds
• series production
• injection molding tooling