Rapid prototyping, otherwise known as desktop
manufacturing, additive fabrication, solid freeform fabrication, three
dimensional printing or layered manufacturing, has always been in the
forefront of development and design.
By quickly creating
prototypes that are similar to form and function as the actual
production unit, developers are able to create a product that meets the
expectations of consumers and project sponsors.
Through a
combination of rapid prototyping methods and traditional model making,
high quality prototypes can be created with less the expense and
quicker turnaround times.
Compared to traditional fabrication
methods like milling and turning, rapid prototyping is way better in
terms of accuracy, speed and quality. By using rapid prototyping
techniques complex and intricate shapes can be formed without any
complicated machine setup, prototypes can be created from different
types of materials or composites, and the process simplifies the whole
process of creating a prototype.
Because of the advantage it
brings, rapid prototyping services are being offered by companies to
engineers and system developers to better understand their product and
communicate better with their target clientele. Not only does the
technique used by designers, developers and manufacturers, but
professions like surgeons, architects, artists and even mere
individuals regularly utilize the technology.
Among the services
being offered are stereolithography, selective laser sintering or SLS,
fused deposition modeling of FDM, laminated object manufacturing or
LOM, inkjet-based systems and three dimensional printing or 3DP.
SLS
is one of the most used tools in rapid prototyping techniques. In SLS
rapid prototyping, a CO2 laser is used to melt powdered thermoplastic
materials to create layers. A scanner guides the laser and melts
specific areas and materials based on the information fed by the 3D CAD.
Prototypes
created from SLS processes are strong and more tolerant to stress.
Materials used in the market include DuraForm, CastForm, Somos 201,
FR85A and LaserForm. Most of the prototypes created from these
materials are usually ready to be used and only require minimal clean
up and finishing.
Stereolithography or SLA creates prototype part
layers through the use of a solid-state laser. The 3D CAD data guides
the laser as it cuts through the surface of a container which normally
contains liquid photopolymer material.
In LOM, on the other hand,
uses a paper sheet with one side laminated with adhesive. The laser
cuts the outline on the paper sheet. This process does not involve any
chemical reaction which makes it cheaper and large parts can be made.
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