ABSTRACT
Rapid prototyping (RP) is a modern method of producing physical prototypes using digital data from CAD programs downloaded to digital manufacturing devices using computer-aided manufacturing software. The 3D physical models can be used to communicate style, shape, as well as to test the function of a model. They may be a simple approximation of the product focusing on only one or two features as a proof of concept, or they may include more complex details of features. Several prototypes may be produced for comparison in the early design stage. Prototypes may be made of tooling as well as of the product. Sometimes “soft tooling” may be used for pilot production to test tooling concepts before “hard” tooling is produced for mass production.
