Rapid tooling: A major shift in tooling practice

Abstract

<p>To solve the tool-making bottleneck, it is fundamental to integrate rapid manufacturing methodologies for rapid tooling, which reduces the lead-time to manufacture the tools while improving their quality. Rapid tooling (RT) is a progression of rapid prototyping (RP). RT is the art of producing tooling directly from CAD models of the part. RT technology plays a major role in increasing the pace of tooling development. This paper describes the role of RT according to the current market situation. An ample review of examples of rapid tooling indicates a new trend of tooling practice. This trend in manufacturing based on rapid prototyping and rapid tooling has already had a dynamic impact on the engineering environment.</p>