| Rapid Prototyping (RP) refers to
the physical modeling of a design using a special class of machine technology.
RP systems quickly produce models and prototype parts from 3D computer-aided
design (CAD) model data, CT and MRI scan data, and data created from 3D digitizing
systems. Using an additive approach to building shapes, RP systems join
liquid, powder, or sheet materials to form physical objects. Layer by layer, RP machines fabricate plastic, wood, ceramic, and metal parts using thin, horizontal cross sections of the computer model. Some argue that the term freefom fabrication (FFF) more accrately desc ribes this class of technology, particularly as its applications expand beyond fast prototyping. |