Opps…I just got around to opening some old mail and found free passes for a Florida Rapid Prototyping show for May 20 - 22nd in Coronado Springs Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fl…
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You know, I’ve been in the mfg industry for many years and have no idea what rapid prototyping is? Unless it is speaking of computer software like SolidWorks that allows you to digitally create prototypes and test them on screen.
it’s basicly taking a digital model (could be made in solidworks) then having a machine either fuse plastic together in one of 4 popular ways or remove plastic from a block. I’m familiar with the processes and results, i’ve had it done myself with a few different processes. If you ever wanted something done I could help you out with the modeling and get it made with the right process. These processes are fot small parts usually and is roughly a few hundred per part.
That is the high end of the industry but they also use silicone casting materials and those types of material (latex too) for making temp molds too.
You can look up sintering as well. One method is taking a laser, and zapping pixels in a bed of powdered material (or liquid), which solidifies it. It passes another layer of powder or liquid over the last layer, and does it again. This way, one can put a 3D model into the system, and it will create it in a solid model.
You can create things like, gears inside gears, inside a cage that was done in one step, and one piece.
I think they are refining the process and equipment to produce MANY more materials, along with almost perfect finishes, and speeds so you can sell the parts.