Rapid technology prototyping, alternately referred to as rapid prototyping (RP), is currently the most advanced method for quickly creating a prototype. This technology is accomplished by using a rapid prototyping machine. Rapid prototype machines can produce prototypes in mere hours. Depending on the complexity of the prototype, it may take anywhere from just a few hours to a few days for its completion.

Rapid technology prototyping is also commonly called solid free-form fabrication, layered manufacturing, or computer automated manufacturing.

The benefits of using rapid technology prototyping are…

»Any object of any complexity can be formed fairly easily and quickly without the need for machine setup or assembly.

»Objects are made from multiple materials or as composites.

»Since usually only a single unit is produced, the costs can be kept down to a bare minimum.

Basically, rapid technology prototyping takes traditional 2 dimensional printing and adds a third dimension to it. Therefore, rapid prototyping machines are fondly called 3 dimensional printers. Rapid technology prototyping takes a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model and using a laser, creates a physical model out of a variety of media. The media types include paper, ceramic material, wax, or even plastic.

In contrast with most machining processes, rapid technology prototyping is an “additive” technique. This means layers of media (whether paper, ceramic, wax or plastic) are combined to create a 3-D solid object. Most machining processes, such as drilling and grinding, are “subtractive” techniques, where material is removed from a solid block. The exact process of rapid technology prototyping is listed out below …

»First, you need a CAD model of your invention.

»Next, the CAD model must be converted to STL (stereolithography) format. This file represents your invention as a series of triangles like that of a cut diamond. STL does not represent curved surfaces, only cut surfaces. However, you can create what appear to be curved surfaces by increasing the number of triangles.

»The STL file will need to be sliced into layers from 0.01 mm to 0.07 mm thick, depending on the build technique you choose.

»Construction of the object takes place layer by layer. The rapid technology prototyping machine builds the layers from the selected media.

»The final step is to clean and finish the prototype. In many instances, it will be sanded, polished or painted.

What does it cost?
Of course, costs range due to the complexity and size of your invention. They can also increase if you need additional design work such as painting done. Smaller prototypes can be made using rapid technology prototyping for about $250. You can gain an estimate by calling several companies.

There are limitations to rapid technology prototyping, but it truly is revolutionary. In the past, inventors had to wait weeks, up to months and pay much higher fees to have a single prototype made.

It is also possible to use rapid technology prototyping for making tools. This technique is known as rapid tooling. In addition, it can even be used for the production of parts and manufactures, known as rapid manufacturing.