What is Rapid Prototyping? Advantages, Methods and Applications

Rapid prototyping represents one of the most important technological advancements of the modern age. From SLA rapid prototyping to CNC machining, on-demand manufacturing services have changed product availability and the way engineers approach the design process.

What is rapid prototyping?

Rapid prototyping can be defined as any process that is capable of turning a digital design - usually in the form of a CAD file - into a scale replica. Many different rapid prototyping processes are available, and engineers can choose from a wide array of materials.Rapid prototyping is typically associated with 3D printing. This additive manufacturing method creates objects out of layers of fused, sintered, or jetted material. Thermoplastic and resin are the most common materials, but metal 3D printing is possible as well.

Rapid prototyping can also make use of negative manufacturing methods like CNC machining. These methods create objects by selectively removing material from a block of metal, wood, resin, or plastic. CNC machining is often preferred over 3D printing for durable metal parts or objects with less detailed designs.

Why engineers choose rapid prototyping

Rapid prototyping is known for being extremely affordable and having amazingly short lead times. As online rapid prototyping has become more accessible, many engineers have made it a regular part of their design cycle.

Prototypes are an essential part of the design process. Unfortunately, traditional manufacturing methods were not designed for the creation of individual or easily modified parts. Start-up costs were the most detrimental since unique tooling was only viable for large products with hundreds or even thousands of units.

Luckily, rapid prototyping methods like 3D printing and CNC machining have a level price per unit. Because each part is manufactured individually, engineers can order as few or as many parts as they need without worrying about a scaling price.

Online manufacturing platforms like 3D Hubs have made rapid prototyping even more convenient by offering on-demand quotes and manufacturing. Engineers can get a price without talking to a salesperson, customize their design, and expect a short lead time from a nearby manufacturer. In some cases, products made with rapid prototyping are manufactured within a day and delivered within a week.

Common rapid prototyping applications

Rapid prototyping is a flexible manufacturing method that can be used for most engineering and manufacturing applications. However, there are a few industries that have greatly benefited from the unique features that on-demand manufacturing offers.

Rapid prototyping is often used to create scale models, custom prosthetics, and single-use parts like ventilators. The industry relies on quick turnaround times and the availability of sterile materials to produce life-saving items for patients around the world. Because products are fully customizable, doctors can order products for individual situations without paying an exorbitant manufacturing fee.

Engineers frequently use rapid prototyping to create both working and cosmetic models for automotive designs. Additive manufacturing is also able to make uniquely complicated parts that would not be viable with other manufacturing methods.

Manufacturing

Thanks to rapid prototyping, all members of the manufacturing industry can order trial products without investing in expensive tooling. Depending on the size of the production run, rapid prototyping might be a more viable choice as a main manufacturing method.

3D Hubs is the world's leading provider of rapid prototyping services. From SLS rapid prototyping service to rapid CNC prototyping, you can generate an instant quote for any design on the 3D Hubs online manufacturing platform. Simply upload a CAD file, choose a manufacturing method and a material, and see how quickly your design can become a reality.