Quote:
Originally Posted by anthonye81
Cd's point is that the term "rapid prototyping" refers to a specific practice of model making with all the 3D CAD and resin moulding equipment. Using this term for something else can be confusing.
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Okay,how about that it is rapid,in the context of do-it-yourselfers as the forum implies.
There was a time when cement plaster supplanted all-wood prototypes,and it was more "rapid."
Then came clay which was faster.
Then body-filler over foam.
Sure,stereo-lithography is an amazing process although you've got to have your design fixed,pre-digitized, and all the vectors established before you even begin to build up laminations.Okay for an engine block,but a car maker would never do a body this way.They'd use their 5-axis router/mill to cut down clay.And again,the "virtual" vehicle must already fully designed.
Again,it's all great but certainly beyond the scope of the backyard shop or garage.
The foam/wood/fiberglass is low tech,can be modified instantaneously,and designed on the fly.
CAD/CAM is today's state -of -the-art,although for a knuckle-dragger like me,born before dirt,this home-brewed tech has been one way to see things come together and on the road before the engine wears out.