RP applications

1)Visualisation: The ability to feel and see a product before it goes into manufacturing is priceless. Rapid prototypes can be used as visual aids for engineers, designers, and manufacturers. It allows for increased communication between all parties and helps determine the cost of a good.

2)Form-fit and function testing: Component sizes and functionality can be verified to ensure they work their intended purpose.

3)Functional models: Allows for components to be physically tested.

4)Presentation models are important for organisations to win contracts and business.

5)Casting models: Casting moulds can be made in order to build full-scale replicas of the part.

6)Rapid tooling: A Rapid Prototype model is used to quickly make a mould, or uses the Rapid Prototyping process directly to fabricate a tool for a limited volume of prototypes.

7)Products for designers and jewellers: Some high fashion designers (e.g. Assa Ashuach) are using Rapid Prototyping to produce intricate shaped objects as fashion accessories.

8)Scaffolds for biomedical industry: Rapid prototyping is showing signs that it will be able to produce scaffolds for the biomedical industry. This could mean the end of the tedious process of trying to mould these scaffolds.

9)Visualisation tool for surgeon: 3D models can be made of parts of the human body. These models can even be personalised for the person being operated on. 3D scanners can replicate the exact break or fracture obtained by the person. Surgeons can then use these models to prepare for operations.

10)Rapid Manufacturing: Direct production of products using Rapid Prototyping technologies.

11)Ergonomic studies: Build the basic shape of the object and see how it feels in your hand.