Rapid prototyping has gained a lot of traction in the last decade due to the accessibility of 3D printers. Essentially, this method can quickly and accurately create prototypes for one to analyze the visual design and function of an engineering product.
Types of Prototypes
There are a few types of prototypes and it depends on which stage the product development cycle one is on. Most prototypes don’t resemble the final product up until the latter stages of the design process. Rapid prototyping is categorized in terms of “fidelity” or accuracy. The level of accuracy can range from low fidelity to high fidelity in appearance, functionality, size, and user interface.
Low fidelity types can be manufactured easily. Prototypes using paper sketches and cardboard mock-ups are commonly used to test the overall concept. In recent years, 3D printing has also added to this category with low-cost, low-resolution printing technologies. Product designers can get a quick idea of how their design works in the physical world.
High- fidelity prototypes function and look similar to the final product. They are usually interactive and highly functional. High fidelity prototyping is great for testing in the latter stages of product designing procedures. Designers can interact with a product in its near final configuration. They are usually used to verify the last design and unravel any minor issues with usability before manufacturing. The feedback obtained through high fidelity prototyping is generally used in the most critical stages of the design process.
Why Is Rapid Prototyping Crucial?
In the current manufacturing industry and market, firms need to manufacture and bring in new products quickly to maintain their competitive edge. Since speed is essential to success, rapid prototyping is a crucial part of product designing.
Rapid prototyping is essential in meeting these business objectives:
- New product development: Rapid prototyping ensures that new products are created quickly.
- Early-stage design/concept form validation: Verifies the function, form, and fit of the design.
- Final stage product verification: Verifies the final stage against business aims and technical requirements.
- Product functionality tests: Esnures the product does what it’s designed to do.
- Gain feedback: Rapid prototyping provides end-users a hands-on experience so that they can give quality feedback.
Types Of Rapid Prototyping Techniques
Depending on development stage, fidelity level, cost, material fit, and speed, some rapid prototyping methods include:
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
- Stereolithography (SLA)
- Binder Jet
- Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
- Poly Jet
- Vacuum Casting
- CNC Machining Prototyping
- Investment Casting
Rapid Prototyping Advantages
- Lowers overall product development expenses
- Shortens development and design duration
- Lowers risks
- Provides testing for functionality
- Boosts user involvement
- Analyzes ergonomics and human factors
Rapid Prototyping Disadvantages
- Increased initial costs
- Occasional inaccuracies
- Uneven strength and surface finish
- Need skilled personnel
- Limited material availability
- Some key features cannot be prototyped
Wondering if your product can be subject to rapid prototyping? Contact Kemperle Industries for help today!
