Rapid prototyping

FASTEST DEVELOPMENT AT LOW COSTS

Plastic prototype with the HP Multi Jet Fusion

Rapid prototyping with 3D printing

Rapid prototyping mostly uses additive manufacturing processes, such as selective laser sintering (SLS), which allow the production of your parts directly from the existing 3D data. In this way, problem areas in geometries can be identified during the development phase and the functionality and design can be adapted or improved accordingly at an early stage. This can significantly reduce errors in the development phase of a product. Which in turn avoids high ramp-up, market launch and complaint costs.

MOST FLEXIBLE TO USE

SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING

The SLS process offers a wide range of options for producing high-quality and functional prototypes. It is the all-rounder among the additive manufacturing processes. The pure white parts, e.g. made of PA12 material, provide an excellent basis for a wide range of finishing methods. In addition, the surface can be smoothed and colored in numerous colors.

More about the SLS process

FOR INEXPENSIVE PROTOTYPES

Fused layer (FDM)

This process is ideal for early and low-cost design samples to check the shape or fit of a part. Comparatively large prototypes (up to 1,000 mm edge length) can be produced in one piece. The disadvantage of this process is the somewhat poorer surface quality, which, however, is not decisive for many rapid prototyping applications.

More about the FDM process

The advantages of rapid prototyping

With rapid prototyping, prototypes and functional models can be physically implemented extremely quickly. Additive manufacturing can create products of a salable quality here in order to come as close as possible to the end product. The production of these parts is based directly on the existing 3D files. For example, parts that you have designed on your PC can often be in your hands the very next day. The additive manufacturing processes also allow undisputed freedom of design. Tool-less production means that there are virtually no process-related restrictions, such as those imposed by the necessary production tools.

Speed

Freedom of design

Tool-free production

Low
costs

Application areas of rapid prototyping

Even during the planning phase, rapid prototyping is used to detect and eliminate errors and weak points in the subsequent end product. Already after the first design it is useful to check the proportions of a new product. A physical model allows conclusions to be drawn about sources of error more often than a virtual model. Based on the correct form, the function can now be tackled. In the case of successful product development, tests with functional samples are often used, which ensure the accuracy of fit and the functionality of the individual parts. If the new development is presented to the public - through the first salable samples or at trade fairs - parts are required that come as close as possible to the end product. This is also possible with rapid prototyping methods. Subsequently, a first, 3D printed small batch is often aimed for. This allows you to check the market's response to the new product, so that you can then invest in an expensive injection molding tool with little risk and a good feeling.

filigree structures with the HP Multi Jet Fusion

Lightweight construction with 3D printing — Source: HP

Dense parts with the HP MJF — Source: HP

Function integration Rapid prototyping — Source: HP

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ANSWERS TO MANY QUESTIONS
Interesting facts about 3D printing

You are new to additive manufacturing or 3D printing and want to find out more about basic topics? No problem, you will find numerous explanations and aids in our knowledge database. With just a few clicks, the database can be sorted into various subject areas, such as "saving costs". Should you still require further and personal advice, please contact us.

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Rapid prototyping