Rapid Prototyping Technique formative techniques

In principle, prototypes or patterns that in turn enable the manufacture of prototypes and small batches in combination with casting processes can be produced directly by means of rapid prototyping techniques. Rapid prototyping can also be applied to manufacturing primary shaping and forming tools to be used for the fabrication of prototypes. 

There are three main ways to create a rapid prototype. Formative techniques use machines to make raw materials into the desired shape. Subtractive processes start with a large solid, then remove material to make the shape desired. Additive processes rely on layering material over and over until the part or product reaches its final position and shape. 

Rapid prototyping (RP) or solid freeform fabrication (SFF) is a relatively recent approach to forming ceramic components. There are various forms of RP techniques, but they are based on a common principle a computer directly controls the shaping process by accessing computer-aided design (CAD) files. We can thus use RP to form a 3D component without the use of a die or a mold. RP techniques are used commercially for fabrication of parts from polymers for design verification and form-and-fit applications these techniques have more recently been applied to forming parts out of ceramics. 

The fast polymerization reaction that forms polyurethane at the surface opens a new route for rapid prototyping, as well as the use of ink-jet as a technique for handling moisture-sensitive reactions. 

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