RP Methods
Automation technology of creation three-dimensional model of any physical objects by means of prototyping machines like stereo lithography apparatuses, SLS systems (selective laser sintering) or three-dimensional printing is called rapid prototyping or RP. Being the part of rapid production tooling, the process of rapid prototyping is assisted by a computer that is why it is also called CAD manufacturing. Rapid prototyping can divided into several types, or methods. The first method called additive is based on the layered technology. Any CAD graphical program creates an image of a future object and divides it into cross sections, being cut off gradually during the prototyping process. A prototyping machine casts an object from such materials as metal powder, prototyping wax, different prototyping liquids, etc., the same way as the object is segmented by a computer – layer by layer. Layers are joined by means of glue usage, shaping the exact copy of the virtual prototyping model. This RP process looks the same as ancient ceramic mold casting. One of the greatest advantages of rapid prototyping is that an object of practically any geometrical form can be produced. The only minus characterizing RP is that produced parts can be sometimes smaller than actual parts or details of mechanisms.
The second RP method is a subtractive one. The essence of the process lies in following. The RP machine uses special tool not to build up but to cut off the layers of materials, such as prototyping wax, in order to create the exact copy of the source object. CNC or computer numerical control is similar to this RP method. Subtractive technology is much more reliable and tried than any other rapid prototyping technology. It has much in common with sculpture, where extra material is usually carved off by means of special tools in order to get forms that are more accurate. Considering disadvantages of subtractive method, it is necessary to admit that this method is usually applied for creation of simple details. This method is great for big-scale projects, but taking into account that subtractive method is good for production of small parts, details must be combined to get the accomplished product.
Combining of materials is very important in the rapid prototyping technology. Mixing is usually done to get more solid and reliable model. For example, the outer shell of the model may consist of some soft prototyping material melting at high temperatures, whereas the inner filling is done from temperature resistant material. When a model is subjected to heat treatment the outer layer melts and the finished model has accurate shape and incredible solidness.
Here are machines including either both mentioned technologies, or one of them, making it possible to create prototyping models fast and qualitative.
Over the recent decades rapid prototype services coped up with solving lots of tech problems. And rapid prototype might help you to. Please make sure to read more about the rapid prototype industry and how it helps.
