Rapid Prototyping can be defined as the process of constructing physical objects automatically by making use of ’solid freeform fabrication’. The initial techniques regarding prototyping came into being in late 1980s. They were then used for producing prototype parts and models. In today’s world, they are being used for much wider applications. For instance- manufacture of quality parts. This technology is used by certain sculptors for producing complex shapes in order to display them in ‘fine arts exhibitions’.
Origin: Rapid prototyping has taken virtual designs through ‘animation modeling software’ or ‘computer aided design (CAD)’. Thereafter, transformation into virtual, thin, horizontal cross-sections takes place. Each cross-section then gets created in the physical space. This process goes on till the model gets completed. It is better known as WYSIWYG process. Let’s understand this process in detail.
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For people outside the fields of engineering and technology, there can be some confusion regarding the terms “3D printers” and “rapid prototype machines.” This conundrum is to be expected since there are even engineers who are not aware that these machines exist.
Nonetheless, both these machines are used in fabricating scale models used in engineering, automation, manufacturing and mechanics. In recent years, however, the use of these machines has expanded beyond the confines of engineering to medicine, education, and even the arts. But what makes these machines different from each other?
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Having the ability to reconstruct items using rapid prototyping has made a difference in many ways. One example would be the Buddha of Infinite Light, Amida. This is a carved figure made of wood and lacquered. Believed to have originated in the 13th century, it is a wonderful piece of art that tells us much about the earlier cultures. However, the Buddha is believed to have originally been adorned with a necklace, topknot and crown.
The Buddha was the inspiration it took to build another one using rapid prototyping. Adding the missing adornments was one of the purposes for doing this. The reconstructed Buddha was made using 0.1 mm layers and was based on 3D scanning at close range. In addition, digital modeling was used and the end result was the Buddha with the accessories that were believed to be missing.
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