Automation technology of creation three-dimensional model of any physical objects by means of prototyping machines like stereo lithography apparatuses, SLS systems (selective laser sintering) or three-dimensional printing is called rapid prototyping or RP. Being the part of rapid production tooling, the process of rapid prototyping is assisted by a computer that is why it is also called CAD manufacturing. Rapid prototyping can divided into several types, or methods. The first method called additive is based on the layered technology. Any CAD graphical program creates an image of a future object and divides it into cross sections, being cut off gradually during the prototyping process. A prototyping machine casts an object from such materials as metal powder, prototyping wax, different prototyping liquids, etc., the same way as the object is segmented by a computer

Tags: prototyping, rapid prototype