Rapid prototyping is the use of various processes in order to create a physical object or assembled group of objects quickly. There are many techniques which design engineers use to create rapid prototypes – such as 3D printing, Vac Casting and more traditional methods to name a few.
3D printing is now one of the most commonly used engineering prototyping techniques. The basic process of 3D printing is the joining a of material that is under the control of a system, in order to create a three-dimensional part. 3D printing is a fantastic way for design engineers, mechanical engineers and product designers, of being able to show your idea in a physical form. 3D printing allows for quick development of ideas with minimal costs compared to traditional prototyping methods- however- it is not suitable for all prototyping.
There are many 3D printing processes – SLA, SLS and FDM are but a few.
