Computer

7 Pages 1747 Words

ng would not have been possible with out the existence of these areas. Over the years, prototyping has gone through three phases. The first phase is manual prototyping. In this phase, prototypes are not very complex and fabrication of prototypes take on average about four weeks. The second phase is virtual prototyping. This phase is when computer models can be stressed, tested, analyzed and modeled as if they were physical prototypes. The third phase is rapid prototyping (RP). This is the creation of 3D objects directly from CAD files. A CAD file is inputted and within a few hours a model is produced. Unlike CNC machines, the model is created by adding material instead or cutting it away from a solid block. This makes producing complex shapes quite simple. Prototypes are an important part of the design cycle. They are an aesthetic visualization. This is especially important for a consumer item that must look appealing when painted and packaged. They are also a type of form-fit-and function testing. They are used to make sure the part fits into and works with the other parts it is intended to be attached. They can also be used as casting models. If test of the model leads to design changes, then a new model is needed for further tests. Conventional model-making methods can require weeks or months. ...