FUSION OF DIGITAL PHOTOELASTICITY RAPID PROTOTYPING AND RAPID TOOLING TECHNOLOGIES

Abstract

The recent advances in rapid prototyping (RP) [1–5] have made it possible to produce prototypes of very complicated parts directly from three-dimensional computer aided design (CAD) models without using part specific tooling. Application of these techniques for producing prototypes leads to considerable reduction in the total cycle time. There are a number of RP techniques developed so far, such as stereolithography (STL), fused deposition modelling (FDM), solid ground curing (SGC), selective laser sintering (SLS) etc. This technology has emerged in response to the need for reducing the lead-time to produce physical prototypes. These models could be directly used for checking form, fit and function, getting management approval for detailed design and development, conducting market research, submitting for price negotiations and as models for wind tunnel testing.