The term Rapid Tooling (RT) is used to describe a process which either uses a Rapid Prototyping (RP) technique as a medium to create a mold quickly or uses the Rapid Prototyping process directly to fabricate a tool for a limited volume of prototypes. RT takes less tooling time and cost than a conventional tool. It can be used to make multiple parts out of alternative materials. The rapid tooling processes include the following:
* Composite Injection
* Kirksite Injection
* Silicone Vacuum Cast
* Zinc and Aluminum Plaster Cast
* Spray Metal Injection
* Sand Cast
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Rapid prototyping (RP) and rapid tooling (RT) technologies, processes and developments have changed over the years, but there is one thing that has remained constant: the challenge to get functional prototypes and a method to obtain low-volume production parts fast, without breaking the bank.
The race in rapid tooling to get either functional prototypes or low-volume production parts has created many methods of rapid tooling, which have worked well and not so well. The downside to each of these methods has been the consistency and the lack of broad use from application to application.
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Rapid Tooling prototypes are often made using FDM technology. The part was made from extruded black ABS and was used for some functional testing.
Initial Prototyping
3M began this phase by creating stereolithography (SLA) patterns with its in-house SLA equipment. Overflow SLA work was sourced to Vista Technologies. The SLA prototypes were used by engineers and industrial designers to check fit and form. The same prototypes were used by 3M packaging engineers to create conceptual mock-ups of product packaging. They also made excellent tools for ergonomic and usability studies.
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