Hopefully this is not too wonky but here's a primer for rapid prototyping. Guess any fast model maker could be good in 'rapid prototyping'.
http://www.prm.ucl.ac.be/cours/meca2...rototyping.pdf
The cliche CNC 5 axis machining & milling is a dance of the workpiece & cutter precisely controlled via digital automation. Design studios' most favorite tool on metal, wood, clay, foam, etc. workpiece prototypes.