A prototype is a model or sample of a particular product based on which, the final product is produced. Rapid prototyping is a method in which prototypes can be produced at a faster rate using technologies such as 3D printing which is also known as additive manufacturing. Rapid prototyping can also use some other technique such as casting and molding which is time and cost consuming process. CAD is the primary aid in the rapid prototyping process.
Rapid prototyping gives us final product which can help us in understanding the finish and quality with less time and effort required to produce the desired product as compared to conventional method. Also, once the prototype is manufactured, one can understand whether the prototype resembles the desired product or not and the necessary changes can be incorporated in the initial phase itself and the revised prototype can be produced again. Also, the prototype can be tested considering the functionality, accuracy, finish and design of part and changes can be made accordingly to improve the product.
The prototype may need to be revised several times until desired functional properties match the requirements. Rapid prototyping can be very useful in this process. The biggest advantage of rapid prototyping is that prototypes can be produced at a much faster rate than other methods. However, the initial design phase does take some time and the benefit of rapid prototyping can be availed only when the prototype production process is initiated. But once the design is finalized, the prototype can be produced rapidly. This process is only suitable for small batch production and once the component is finalized and approved than it can be manufactured as per requirement.
If some parts are functional and there is breakdown in machine these parts can be 3d printed rapidly and machine can work smoothly. One more significant advantage in such case is there is scope of design changes in existing functional part to make it more efficient to serve the purpose.
Making the necessary changes and implementing them in the prototyping phase in economical and less time-consuming. If other methods of prototyping are used, it may be difficult to make several changes in the prototyping process which could, in turn, increase the cost of the production process. The ‘trial and error method’ may prove to be costly if traditional methods of prototyping are implemented. Thus the total product development time and cost are decreased and the entire process is made much easier because of rapid prototyping, especially if it is done with the help of 3D printing or additive manufacturing. Rapid prototyping makes you cut down the production time drastically as in Research and development, projects has to be completed in stipulated time .The saved time also reduces costs and increases profitability. Thus, the product can be manufactured in a lesser amount of time and can be made available in the market faster. In today’s competitive world, bringing new and better products to the markets before your competitor does so, determines whether the company can be profitable or not.
Conclusion:
Rapid prototyping has several advantages and this blog outlines a few of them. 3D printing or additive manufacturing is the best technology with the help of which rapid prototyping can be carried out. Incredible AM Pvt. Ltd., is a leading additive manufacturing company in India having an experienced and skilled workforce. If your industry has any kind of rapid prototyping requirement then you can collaborate with Incredible AM Pvt. Ltd. and be assured of the best results.
