Rapid Prototyping(RP) is a good way to make a sample without mould. If you are developing a new product, but think that opening a new mould is too expensive, you can try rapid prototyping. The cost of using RP can be 10 times cheaper than making an actual mould cost.
What is Rapid Prototyping?
Rapid prototyping is the most common name given to a host of related technologies that are used to fabricate physical objects directly from Computer Assistant Design (CAD) data sources. These methods are unique because they add and bond materials in layers to form objects.
Things to note:
- Functions cannot be the same as the real one
- Not very economical for mass production
Advantages of prototyping:
- Test appearance without mould
- Test structure without mould
- Reduce risk for making new mould
- Shorter sample lead time
Product Development Process is a very important aspect for inventors where sample making cost and time are to be kept as low as possible. In addition, almost all types of products can make use of rapid prototyping to make samples – from pens, keychains, cellphones to cars and helicopters.
You can search for more inspiration on Inventions, New Innovations, Manufacturing Ideas to start off your brainstorming. Our engineering team will be more than happy to help refine the designs before moving to rapid prototyping.
