Introduction to Rapid Prototyping
Global Product Developement
having the different processes in the development cycle happening not only at different department but also different companies.
Customer needs survey
Product Definition
Idea Conceptualization Define the key feature of the product
Select Concept
Detail Drawing
Prototyping
Testing/ Validation
Manufacturing
Marketing
Then it goes back to Customer needs Survey
Types of prototypes
Physical
Analytical Using CAD software to calculate weakest point
Focus
Rough estimation of the product
Use for the initial stages of developement
Comprehensive 3D or more informative on the product
Planning of Prototypes
Step 1. Define the prupose of the Prototype
Step 2. Establish the level of approximation of the prototype
Step 3. Outline an Experimental Plan
Step 4. Create a schedule for Procurement, Construction and Test
CAD Data Exchange Format
STL - (STereoLithography) IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification STEP (Internation standard for product data exchange)
AMF (Additive Manufacturing File)
Purpose of Prototype
Uses Of Prototype
Learning
Communication
Integration
Milestone
Answering questioning about the design (a proof of concept)
The prototype focus on certain areas (known as Focus type)
New idea can be explored during prototyping stage to enhance product performance
Demonstration of product for feedback
Ensure customer's needs are understood correctly
Test Market demand
Plan production methods and cost
Combination of sub-system into system model (Beta version)
Assemble electronic devices to the parts
Almost a complete version (or known as Comprehensive Prototype)
Goal for development team's schedule
Can be in different forms at different phase of development. it must be quick to make so that decisions can be made quickly
It will reduce design errors before planning for production
Prototype VS Actual Product
Not made form actual material. Made of soft material that is quickly shaped by hand
It may not have all the features in a product. Made to test or focus on certain aspect of the design
It may be shaped closed to actual product but no economical for mass production