Rapid Tooling

The aim of new techniques of rapid prototyping, tooling and manufacturing is to take a new product from the Computer Aided Design (CAD) stage into instant production of the prototype, or even the end use part. In this report the different methods available, the material choice, accuracy and model build size are described. An additional indexed section containing several hundred abstracts from the Rapra Polymer Library database gives useful references for further reading.

A discussion of the rapid tooling (RT) technologies under development and in use for the timely production of moulds and manufacturing tools. It describes applications within various leading companies and guides product and manufacturing process development groups on ways to reduce investments of money and time.

Rapid prototyping is an exciting new technology used to create physical models and functional prototypes directly from CAD models. Rapid tooling concerns the production of tooling using parts manufactured by rapid prototyping. The book describes the characteristics and capabilities of the main known rapid prototyping processes. It covers in detail various commercially available processes such as: Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and others. The text places a strong emphasis on practical applications and contains an abundance of photographs and diagrams to illustrate clearly the principles of the machines and processes involved.

Rapid Tooling Guidelines for Sand Casting describes the guidelines for the sand casting industry in using rapid tooling processes. Topics in the seven chapters include sand casting processes, tool design and construction, fast freeform fabrication processes, rapid tooling processes, sand casting dimension control, rapid tooling evaluation methods and decision making processes. Twelve case studies will also be examined in the book.

This book discusses the general concept and applications of rapid tooling technologies and introduces the use of incremental forming for the development of rapid sheet tools. Methods and techniques for tool design and development are discussed, considering their manufacture using incremental forming and complementary processes. The mechanical and thermal performance of sheet metal tools is analyzed. Finally, possible applications are introduced, with the description of some case study examples.

Rapid prototyping (RP) has revolutionized how prototypes are made and small batch manufacturing is carried out. With rapid prototyping, The strategies used to produce a part change a number of important considerations and limitations previously faced by tool designers and engineers. Now in its third edition, this textbook is still the definitive text on RP. it covers the key RP processes, The available models and specifications, and their principles, materials, advantages and disadvantages. Examples of application areas in design, planning, manufacturing, biomedical engineering, art and architecture are also given. The book includes several related problems so that the reader can test his or her understanding of the topics. New to this edition, The included CD-ROM presents animated illustrations of the working principles of today's key RP processes.

Time compression technologies such as rapid prototyping and manufacturing offer enormous potential benefits. Where time can be saved in the development of new or modified products, expenditure can also be reduced. Swifter development can also give a competitive edge to those using these techniques. However there are a number of different systems and processes that can be used. Ensuring that the most appropriate rapid prototyping and manufacturing technology is applied to a problem is vital to the success of a project. The case studies, compiled by the experienced team of the Warwick Manufacturing Group at the University of Warwick in the UK, represent a range of different real experiences drawn from a variety of industries, using a range of materials and processes. CONTENTS INCLUDE: Overview of product design and development Computer-aided design and rapid prototyping The introduction of CAD/CAM in the ceramics industry Product design and development – reverse engineering Reducing the risk of new product development by utilizing rapid prototyping technologies Stress analysis using rapid prototyping techniques Case studies in rapid prototyping and manufacturing techniques–flow visualization using rapid prototype models Overview of utilizing bureau facilities Using bureau services Running an internal rapid prototyping bureau Overview of rapid casting techniques An alternative route to metal components for prototype and low-volume production Rapid prototyping in pattern making and foundry applications Rapid prototyping – enhancing product development at Parker Hannifin Cast tooling with rapid prototype patterns Overview of rapid tooling The role of rapid immediate production tooling (IPT) in new product development Rapid tooling – cast resin and sprayed metal tooling.