Rapid Prototyping Flashcards
The definition of rapid prototyping?
Fast fabrication of a physical part,component, model or assembly using 3D CAD. The creation is normally produced using an additive CAM process.
What additive CAM processes are used in rapid prototyping?
3D printing
Selective laser sintering (SLS)
Stereo Lithography (SLA)
The definition of 3D printing?
Making a physical object from a 3D digital model by layering down thin layers in succession to build up the outcome using ABS or PLA.
Why would you use a 3D printer?
Fast production
High quality
Complex shapes
Cost-effective
Tangible design and product testing
The definition of a selective laser sintering (SLS) machine?
A machine that uses a high powered laser to solidify powdered polymers.
Advantages of using a selective laser sintering (SLS) machine ?
Can design complex internal components
High productivity
Can colour or dye the product
Good chemical resistance
Disadvantages of using a selective laser sintering (SLS) machine ?
Fewer materials can be used
Low impact strength
High shrink rate
Higher waste than other additive manufacturing
The definition of a stereo lithography (SLA) machine?
A technique used for creating 3D objects using a laser beam to build up layers of liquid polymers that harden with the laser light .
Advantages of using a stereo lithography (SLA) machine?
A quick method
Complex shapes can be built
Disadvantages of using a stereo lithography (SLA) machine?
Machinery is expensive
Outcomes can be fragile
Disadvantages of rapid prototyping?
Lack of accuracy
Added initial costs
Some rapid prototyping processes are expensive
Materials are limited
Requires skilled labour
Key features can be missed as they cannot be prototyped
What are the benefits of rapid prototyping in a large scale production?
Allows functionality testing
Improved and increased user involvement
Ability to evaluate human factors and ergonomics
Elimination or reduction in risks/faults
Reduces overall production development costs
Why are the drawbacks of rapid prototyping in a large scale production?
Costly to install the automated machine required
Time-consuming
Creates delays in the getting the product on the market
Delays in sales and profits
Negative publicity, loss of brand loyalty
Competitors products can secure an increased market share due o5 the delays
