The process of creating physical models and solid objects from computer aided design (CAD), stereolithography or other specifications. It normally uses a series of layers to build a physical object, and aims to reduce design cycle time and enable multiple test iterations at lower cost before moving to volume production.
A layer-by-layer interactive, iterative process that integrates ongoing evaluation and feedback.
A structured software requirements discovery technique which emphasizes generating prototypes early in the development process to permit early feedback and analysis in support of the development process. Contrast with incremental development, spiral model, waterfall model. See: prototyping.
(n) A broad term used to describe several related processes that create physical models directly from a CAD database. Prototyping systems use a variety of techniques, including stereolithography and fused deposition modeling (FDM). Rapid prototyping is used to create prototypes for concept modeling, injection molds, and investment casting.
The speedy fabrication of sample parts for demonstration, evaluation, or testing. It typically utilizes advanced layer manufacturing technologies that can quickly generate complex three-dimensional objects directly from computer-based models devised by Computer Aided Design (CAD). This computer representation is sliced into two-dimensional layers, whose descriptions are sent to the fabrication equipment to build the part layer by layer. Rapid prototyping includes many different fabrication technologies. Stereolithography (SL), selective laser sintering (SLS), laminated object manufacturing (LOM), and fused deposition modeling (FDM) are a few examples.
Rapid-prototyping is a type of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). CAD files are sent to a machine and used to create accurate 3D models which can be used for testing.
In a design process, early development of a small-scale prototype used to test out certain key features of the design. Most useful for large-scale or projects.
1) The transformation of product designs into physical prototypes. Rapid prototyping relies on techniques such as cross-functional teams, data sharing, and advanced computer and communication technology (e.g., CAD, CAM, stereolithography, data links). Rapid prototyping involves producing the prototype on production equipment as often as possible. It improves product development times and allows for cheaper and faster product testing, assessment of the ease of assembly and costs, and validation before actual production tooling. 2) The transformation of system designs into computer system prototypes with which the users can experiment to determine the adequacy of the design to address their needs.
The creation of a working model of a software module to demonstrate the feasibility of the function. The prototype is later refined for inclusion in a final product.
The process of quickly turning product designs into physical samples. It typically entails CAD, PDF, cross-functional teams, and integration with highly flexible production equipment.
A series of approaches to obtaining an initial or prototype of a part or assembly quickly. See, for example, stereolithograpy
solid freeform fabrication is the automatic construction of physical objects with 3D printers, stereolithography machines or selective laser sintering systems. It is a type of computer-aided manufacturing enabling prototypes and products to be rapidly produced.
The production of a limited number of components originating directly from a CAD definition in a time-compressed manner
Computer-controlled additive fabrication. Commonly used synonyms for RP are: 3-Dimensional Printing, additive fabrication, freeform fabrication, solid freeform fabrication, stereolithography. Note that most of these synonyms are imprecise.
an additive manufacturing process that creates a model of an object directly from a CAD model by building it in layers.
Process in which product or service developers work closely with target audience representatives to create and update drafts or models on which subsequent versions will be based
Using one of many machine processes to create a single prototype directly from data (usually .stl format). The proceses include 3D Printing, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Multi Jet Modeling (MJM - variously Thermojet Modeling) StereoLithography (SLA), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS).
A variety of techniques for quick conversion of CAD-generated product designs into useful, accurate physical models, typically using computer-controlled systems.
A computer-based process that fabricates 3D parts from a CAD (STL) file by depositing metal, wax or polymers layer by layer on a substrate. Sometimes referred to as 3D printing or stereolithography.
Any of a variety of processes which avoids tooling time in producing prototypes or prototype parts and therefore allows (generally non-functioning) prototypes to be produced within hours or days rather than weeks. These prototypes are frequently used to test quickly the product's technical feasibility or consumer interest. See: Prototype, Appearance Model.
Creating a nonfunctional prototype system.
This includes a number of rapidly evolving techniques for making prototypes and models quickly thus allowing designers to check their designs and make any necessary changes before investing in expensive tooling. A CAD model of the part is required and the model is usually built layer by layer.