You have options for prototyping, and you’re in the best hands when working with experienced professionals. They will be able to handle different ways of building prototypes and recommend the best course of action at the same time.
A prototype is really about building a physical proof of concept, sample or model of a product to later be refined and manufactured. It’s all about testing an idea or getting feedback on a potential design and vision to see if it’s ready to go into full production mode. It’s a critical step in a design process and can help shape the direction to proceed. Three techniques can produce the best results and this depends on what type of product one is looking for.
Prototyping doesn’t have to be a long and arduous process either and can happen quite quickly, maintain accuracy and not be a high-cost ticket item.
Let’s take a closer look at what each option entails and, ultimately, the route you will take for prototype manufacturing. Here are the top 3 rapid prototyping manufacturing techniques:
CNC stands for computer numeric control and it means that a computer is handling multiple calculations at once to perform the most accurate creation possible. It is equipped to turn a block of raw material into exactly and precisely what you are looking for. It can handle the most complex geometries, and nothing can stop it except the laws of math itself.
It’s an excellent option for those that are looking for rapid prototype manufacturing with materials that are made out of plastic or metal. It’s also a great option to make products that are quite durable. This is because the CNC machinery will create the necessary level of thickness and durability based on what is input into the machine.
The new option on the block is 3D printing, which has transitioned over to the manufacturing process. 3D printing helps to bring three-dimensional concepts to life and even has functional applications in the prototyping stage. It is an extremely accurate and rapid option, and it requires computational input before any type of creation can be done.
It’s excellent if you’re looking to create a prototype in plastic at the moment and can be quite an inexpensive option due to the material composition and the overall process required to create the prototype. Remember that this type of prototyping may not be as durable as CNC machining. However, it can still provide an unparalleled level of accuracy and early functionality that can help take the design process to the next level.
Another option is using what is known as vacuum casting for your prototype manufacturing. This is where a mould is created from some type of pattern (it can also be made with a 3D printer). The mould is durable enough to be filled with molten plastic or metal, and then once it solidifies through cooling, the prototype is ready. It’s yet another accurate option that allows the prototype to be much more solid and dense and closer to the real object that may need to be created.
It’s a great option not only for prototyping but also for an initial limited run. However, due to the requirements of material and heating elements, as well as the qualified expertise, it could be a more expensive option when looking at your choices. This is something to bear in mind.
With rapid prototyping, the best option would be what your prototype manufacturer recommends. That’s where we come in with 15 over years of experience specifically related to this industry. We have all the necessary equipment on top of the experience to know exactly which approach to take.
We’re also able to handle all three types of prototype manufacturing mentioned above and have a variety of techniques and materials to get you the best possible option fast and at a low cost. When you’re ready to get your prototype built please feel free to get an estimate from us here.
