If you work in the product
manufacturing industry, you may have heard of the concept called rapid
prototyping. It has become one of the biggest trends in the manufacturing and
prototyping industry.
Rapid prototyping enables
you to create multiple scale models of your product idea to simplify the
manufacturing process.
What
is Rapid Prototyping?
Rapid
prototyping in China is a set of methods you can utilize to create a scale
model of your product assembly using CAD data. Today, the term 3D printing and
rapid prototyping are used interchangeably.
It uses an additive
manufacturing approach as it is the fastest way to create a visual replica
several times. 3D printing machines follow 3-D design commands from CAD systems
and create a product replica by adding layers of liquid plastic, rubber, or
other synthetic materials. A few 3D printing technologies can also create
intricate inner mechanical parts for products with attention to detail.
Here
is how you make the most out of Rapid Prototyping:
1. Know your Product Needs
Before choosing the right rapid prototyping approach, it is essential to know your prototyping requirements. You can opt for rapid prototyping tools according to the following factors:
· Shape and dimension of your product
· Attention to detail
· Surface finish
· Rework time needed for the prototype
· Production approach
2. Select the Best 3D Printer
3D printers come in different shapes, sizes, and functionality. The major 3D printing machine that is used today is Stereolithography (SLA).
SLA is the first-ever 3D printing machine – introduced in 1980. It employs a laser to treat liquid raisins into hardened plastic. SLA offers several material options in 3D printing, making it the most commonly used 3D printing machine for industries worldwide. Prototypes from Stereolithography have fine attention to detail and a cleaner surface finish.
3. Outsource the Rapid Prototyping Services
Prototyping should be done by professional, experienced, and creative staff that understands their way around. Product designing is a creative process and requires an innovative mindset for successful outcomes.
If you have the budget, it is always better to outsource the rapid prototyping services to a competent product design company in China. Not only will they offer valuable expertise in prototyping but assist in focusing on other essential business activities as well.
The
Bottom Line
Rapid prototyping has
changed the product manufacturing/designing industry. With the assistance of
the state-of-the-art technology and expertise, you will be able to create
numerous models of new product designs to get the perfect final product and
streamline your product designing process.
The three essential factors
mentioned above can help you make a better decision for choosing the right
rapid prototyping strategy for your business.