Rapid Prototyping for direct ManufactureStudent: Francis TienClass: GCP 12Date: 3/4

Background: To use rapid prototyping (RP) as a way to manufacture end products, replacing the current injection molding method. Costs, use of materials, quality control, and suitable applications are covered in the paper.

Method: Internet based conference from November 2000 – January 2001Compare and contrast the difference on how rapid prototyping and injection molding manufacture products with the same function. Data and information are gathered from Boeing’s Rocketdyne propulsion and power section and NASA’s Jet Propulsion lab.

Results: The cost of RP when compared to the cost of injection molding is lower when manufacturing products in smaller quantities because RP can build up more parts in less time. However, the actual number which the two crosses are much higher than what is expected.

Conclusion: RP may be a suitable way of manufacturing for small quantities for now, but it is expected to reach a lower cost per part in the future as the machines for RP will improve and be more common in industries.

References:Hopkinson, N., & Dickens, P. (n.d.). Rapid Prototyping for direct Manufacture. Loughborough University’s Institutional Repository.