What is Rapid Prototyping?

The art of Rapid Prototyping allows inventors, entrepreneurs and business the ability to hold their product in a matter of a few hours in most cases.  The majority of RP equipment use STL file formats, which are a version of your 3D CAD file.  The 3D STL file is electronically transmitted, basically like attaching a file to an e-mail and is uploaded into the RP machine. The RP machine then takes the CAD data and slices it into thousands of layers before the build process begins.  Once you start the machine, it works very similar to an inkjet printer, where the heads of most machines move around a flat platform to build the parts from scratch.  RP is one of the neatest and fastest ways of getting a form, fit and function model to verify the design before moving into full-scale production.  There are several companies who make a variety of different RP machines, and can be referred to as: SLA, SLS, FDM, 3D Printing, etc.  Each machine typically uses its own software and proprietary materials.  Some of the materials are more for aesthetics than function, and some materials such as ABS can be used in real product applications for functional testing.  Our Engineers can work with you on any prototype process or material you may need.  It’s also a very important note that just because a 3D CAD has been done on your product and the machine can build it, doesn’t necessarily mean that product will be 100% manufacturable.  We always recommend doing Concept Design Engineering by either a Plastic Part Design or Mechanical Engineer prior to building a functional prototype.  The RP world will continue to evolve with new technology and materials, and will always remain a critical tool in the product development process.