Rapid prototyping refers to creating layered 3D prototypes through CAD (Computer Aided Design) designing technology. The technology facilitates low-risk product designing and convenient product functionality assessment. It’s been around for a while, but it may be a completely new game for beginners. Here’s a rundown of how rapid prototyping services can help your product development process.
Customize a Mockup.
To develop a product through rapid prototyping, decide which product your brand would offer users. Once you have a plan in mind, it’s time you scan it on the computer. Here’s where CAD comes in. Computer aided design allows you to use computers to model a product from scratch. AutoCAD and TinkerCAD are more frequently used CAD tools in the manufacturing industry.
Take a 3D Printout of Your Design
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, allows you to have a 3D printout of your CAD design. Based on your product and its specific market, you can choose your printing material. As of now, plastic continues to be one of the most used materials in 3D printing. However, you could use materials like metals or PLA (Poly Lactic Acid) depending on your cost, construction-time allocation, and the industry your product is meant to serve.
Testing
You now have a prototype for the product you were trying to design! It’s time you thoroughly review your product before it’s sent for mass production. You’ve got a basic model of your product that you could run through tests without having to invest large chunks of money on product manufacturing plants. You could also have experts test your product.
Review
You’ll find testing a product’s functionality much easier when working with prototypes. Now you can readily make changes to the product by simply modifying the CAD design you made initially. Your design +print +review +design cycle would continue until you have a finished product prototype in hand. Mind you, rapid prototyping does not only help you design prototypes, it also allows for you to experience the feel of the product and how it might appeal to the customer.
Engage an Expert!
CAD manufacturing has gained immense popularity ever since it was introduced in the engineering industry. Even when you know your product, you might not be familiar with the process of CAD designing and how to gauge product technicalities through its visual mockup. Knowing CAD and knowing your product are two different things. Consider calling in expert manufacturing designers if you find yourself struggling with CAD technology.
Mechanical Designing Services in Auburn are easy to find. Our company, Connekt.LLC has been a long-term FEA consulting service in Auburn. We excel in product designing, rapid prototyping, and 3D printing. Along with professional affiliations, our vast experience can guide you through your product designing and manufacturing process. Give us a call at 530-575-6528 or write to us at: scott@connektllc.com.