Rapid prototyping consists of many processes that are used to create prototypes from a mold or a product design. Prototype shops are there to provide solutions for your business if you need a product made for you. Their product development takes a short time, and the certainty of having realistic parts for reliable testing is high. In this extract, we discuss the rapid prototyping process selection.
How to Choose a Rapid Prototyping Process
Selecting the right rapid prototyping process is vital as it determines whether your product will succeed or fail. Different kinds of prototypes are made from various products and design components, and each type goes through a separate process from the other. Consider the following factors before choosing a particular method.
1. Aim of Product
The purpose of a product changes as it goes through the New Product Development Stages. Four stages exist, each with functionality necessities for risk elimination, conceptual designing, task clarification, design embodiment, and the last stage, which is a detailed design.
The first stage requires concept model proof, demonstration units, and design models. The second stage requires a user interface and a design assemble that’s up to scale. Embodiment design is the third step where prototypes are explored to ensure all details are okay. When a prototype reaches the last stage, its means it is fit for testing before its given to the consumer.
2. Quantity of Products
Seek the assistance of a designer after identifying how many products you need. Product development varies depending on the amount and technique used. Some methods are cheaper when used to produce a small number of products, while others are expensive and vice versa. Also, the volume influence the time needed to finish the process.
3. Product Quality
Products have different quality levels depending on the prototype. Prototypes with a high-fidelity level are of good quality, while low-fidelity prototypes have poor quality. The prototype can be completely similar to the final product or have a distinct difference. The technologies used during and after the process differ in both cases, so it is important to know the prototype quality you want. In addition, the cost determines the quality in most cases. High-quality products tend to be more expensive than those with low-quality.
4. The complexity of Product Parts
Rapid prototyping processes have different uses based on how a design looks. Some can be used to produce complex designs, while others cannot. Ask the designer to explain the complexity of your design to you and guide you through the best manufacturing method to use. Additive manufacturing is ideal for simple designs, and huge parts with a bit of complexity can be worked on using subtractive manufacturing.
Conclusion
Rapid prototyping selection process is vital for every product developer and the products too. The process will determine if your products are worth introducing into the market and how they will perform. Go for high-quality prototypes as the final product will be more durable and has a high chance of succeeding. Seek assistance from the manufacturer to make the process easy and quick.
