Rapid prototyping is the process of developing products from computer-aided design. It is an accurate process where the quality of the product is determined before even the production process starts. It can begin at any stage of the product. Almost every modern product is made from rapid prototyping and even the ones that have been using other kinds of manufacturing processes are changing to rapid prototyping. Why has this method become so common? Below are some of the reasons.
Reduced Design and Development Timeline
When it comes to product design, it is very easy using CAD. This is because you see the product outlook before you even proceed to manufacture. With a computer, it is easy because you just enter the dimensions you want and after a very short time, you can the product design you want. From there you can then allow the production process to continue.
rapid protoyping services, *picture from interestingengineering.com
Reduced Costs and Wastes
With perfect design, a clear definition of materials to be used, and other parameters, you can be sure that every resource would be put into proper utilization. The design is not just for the shape but also the size and the material used to make the product. You know the number of raw materials to use and the amount to spend. You, therefore, have the best kind of resource utilization from the start to the end.
Ability to Examine User Involvement and Satisfaction
When designing these tools, the end-user must be put into consideration to see the practicality of the final product. During the designing stage, the manufacturer can always test how the product is going to be effective to the final user. You, therefore, know where to change and rectify before the product is in the final stages.
Testing of Human Ergonomics
You also can evaluate human factors such as weight, flexibility, and other aspects. An example is when designing office chairs. The ergonomics need to be top-notch to ensure the chair can offer satisfactory services to the end-user. You are therefore able to enjoy excellent outcomes at all times when using rapid prototyping. It is at this stage that functionality testing is also done to ensure the product is used within the specified limits. This is the best way to ensure you don’t incur any kind of uncertainty on the final product after the production process is over.
Conclusion
This method of manufacturing is common in almost all kinds of industries because it is economical and saves a lot of resources. The fact that consumer aspects can be put into consideration in the designing process is what has led to the manufacture of satisfactory products. This is why the majority of people are always following rapid prototyping because they know they will get what they want within the specified time frames. Combined with other production types like machining, you can be sure to have even the most complex designs produced. From designing to processing everything remains very perfect.