From rapid prototyping to rapid manufacturing

Rapid Prototyping is now a well introduced technique to convert CAD and other unique geometry data into physical models by an automatic process. This paper describes the basic principles and the most widely used commercial processes, which build parts by adding material layer by layer with an imaging method. Some features which distinguish these techniques are discussed, as well as the materials which can be used. The last section describes the emerging use of RP machines and materials for digital fabrication (or Rapid Manufacturing) with some practical examples.