Rapid prototype machines are definitely considered high technology machining. The process that is required and that a rapid prototype machine does is absolutely amazing. Computer generated and laid out, then sent to the machine to develop by constructing layers upon layers of materials until a final product is developed is definitely amazing.

So, how does all of this work? To begin with, you have to develop some kind of graphic, model, etc by using a computer program such as CAD (computer aided drafting). In this program you will design your “idea” and then the program will take cross sections, little by little, until the “idea” has been deconstructed. The program will then send the information to the machine, where the machine reconstructs the “idea” layer by layer until a final plastic mould is formed. Yes, this all is definitely confusing, but actually simple if you put it into layman’s terms.

In layman’s terms, imagine that you have an item (any item will work) and you have a 3D image of this on a computer program. You then use the program and show all of the cross sections of the image (lines going everywhere) and then each section is removed beginning at the top, going all the way down until nothing is left. The program then shoots the information over to the plastic mould machine where it begins to build the item back up, layer by layer.

The rapid prototyping machine uses materials such as liquid, powder or a sheet material and then lays this material down, layer by layer, cross section by cross section, all the way back up, until there is an actual model of the item that you had on your machine. You have literally taken an image on your computer screen and through technology you have now created the actual item itself, even though it may not be construction out of the right material. Basically, it is just a model of the item.

“Rapid” may not be the case. Depending upon what item you are creating, it can actually take several hours to several days to complete. Whatever the case maybe, this is just absolutely amazing technology.

Rapid prototyping machines are now being studied for the next new plastic mold technology, and that is rapid manufacturing. Can you imagine what rapid manufacturing could create? Where will technology such as this take us next?

Rapid prototyping machines do cost a very pretty “penny”, so to speak. But this type of technology does not come cheap and the possibilities of what can be created from it are unthinkable.

There are several manufacturers who offer plastic mold machines. To learn more about these amazing machines and the technology that is involved, contact one of the manufacturers. They can help to explain what this process really does consist of and can possibly even give you a demonstration of the machine. If this is something that you are very interested in adding to your shop then do contact a manufacturer and learn how you too, can take advantage of this technology.