Rapid prototyping as an integrated product/process development tool an overview of issues and economics

An overview of issues concerning current methods of rapid prototyping (RP) processes is presented. This paper establishes a basis for categorizing the models developed by both commercial RP systems and conventional means, in particular, CNC machining. Model accuracy in both representation and testing capability is described based on a set of three defining levels, Form, Fit, and Function. This classification system divides models into distinct categories based mainly on dimensional control and the build material used for model construction. The implication is that the accuracy of the model will determine its viability for a specific application. The current popular RP systems and CNC machining are reviewed with respect to these categories. Furthermore, an economic overview provides a second basis for deciding on a particular system for prototype development.