27.2. What Is Rapid Prototyping?
By definition, rapid prototyping (RP) is a computer-aided technology used to fabricate physical models from CAD (computer-aided design) programs. Quite simply, rapid prototyping creates a 3-D model of whatever the design program dictates.
NOTE
Holding a 3-D model evokes emotions, ideas, and issues that may not occur when viewing a 2-D model.
But rapid prototyping is more than just a technological process. Rapid prototyping allows one to include the tactile process—to actually hold the result—soon after computer generation. The tactile process evokes emotion, ideas, issues, and new thoughts that may not have come to the surface as readily as with a two-dimensional model, if at all.
Rapid prototyping allows the "what if thought processes, as well as general problem solving, to occur earlier in the product development process and at a lower cost. What manager wouldn't want to benefit from this technology?
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