A Multimedia Approach to Teaching Rapid Prototyping Systems

Rapid prototyping (RP) is an emerging technology which is having a significant impact on product development cycle time and management. This technology enables the making of objects directly from computer models within the time and cost parameters needed by engineers to develop new products and prepare them for manufacture in quantities. RP is a multidisciplinary as well as fast evolving technology. The problem with presenting this technology for learning is the difficulty in covering the wide area of knowledge in a coherent manner. This paper presents a multimedia approach, which, with its visuals, animation and sound, is able to present the RP material in a more cohesive and interactive manner.