Rapid Prototyping can be defined as the process of constructing
physical objects automatically by making use of ‘solid freeform
fabrication’. The initial techniques regarding prototyping came into
being in late 1980s. They were then used for producing prototype parts
and models. In today’s world, they are being used for much wider
applications. For instance- manufacture of quality parts. This
technology is used by certain sculptors for producing complex shapes in
order to display them in ‘fine arts exhibitions’.
Origin: Rapid prototyping has taken virtual designs through
‘animation modeling software’ or ‘computer aided design (CAD)’.
Thereafter, transformation into virtual, thin, horizontal
cross-sections takes place. Each cross-section then gets created in the
physical space. This process goes on till the model gets completed. It
is better known as WYSIWYG process. Let's understand this process in
detail.
WYSIWYG: WYSIWYG as the abbreviation for ‘What You See Is What You
Get’. It is used in ‘computing’ for describing a system wherein
content looks similar to final product at the time of editing. It is
generally used in word processors. However, this use is in the form of
HTML (Web) authoring. The popularization of this phrase was carried out
by the comedian ‘Flip Wilson’. His character ‘Geraldine’ used
to say this very often to give an excuse against her idiosyncratic
behavior.
This expression came to be applied later to computer-based applications
as practicality in technology arrived. At times, it is phonetically
spelt as ‘Wizzywig’ or ‘Wizywig’. It has also been used as a
brand name for a ‘lighting design tool’ utilized in theatre
industry to pre-visualize the shows and 3D CAD.
The process further : The additional fabrication causes the machine to
read data from CAD drawing. After that, consecutive layers of powder,
sheet material, or liquid are laid down. Likewise, a model gets
built-up from a chain of cross-sections. Such layers, corresponding to
CAD model’s virtual cross section, are then fused automatically or
joined together for creating the ultimate shape. The basic advantage of
additive fabrication goes to state that any geometric feature or shape
can be created through this.
The CAD software and machines are interfaced by the ‘standard data
interface’ in the ‘STL file format’. The function of STL file is
approximating the shape of an assembly or a part by making use of
triangular facets. Surfaces of higher quality are produced by smaller
facets.
The word ‘rapid’ can be used relatively. The construction of models
using present-day methods could take time ranging from a few hours to a
few days. This depends on the technique used, along with the complexity
and size of the model. The additive systems take less time. They can
produce models within some hours. Some techniques such as ‘solid
freedom fabrication’ make use of two materials for construction of
parts. The 1st material is known as ‘part material’ and the 2nd one
as ‘support material’. The removal of support material takes place
by heat. It might also be dissolved with water or any other solvent.
When it comes to manufacture of plastic products, that too in large
quantities, injection molding proves to be a cheaper alternative.
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