Different Types of Prototype Methods – Invention Steps
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Different Types of Prototype Methods
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Different Types of Prototype
Methods
Published by  Invention Steps at  March 3, 2015 Tags  Categories 

INVENTION
As with general manufacturing, there are different types of rapid prototype methods you can choose from REVIEW
during the process of seeing your invention to production.
Our Invention Review will save
To choose your preferred prototype method, consider what you you time and money ensuring
want from your prototype: you understand all the steps
and challenges of your
1. An exact replica of the final product particular idea
2. Identical in colour and texture
3. Opportunity to test for form and fit
The following are a few different types of prototype methods you Disclaimer
might encounter:
All information on this website
• Wax Printing has been written by Invention
Steps. These Resource Tools
• Silicone Soft Tooling
are intended as general
• SLM – Selective Laser Melting
information for people who
• Rapid Casting need support during the
invention process. Invention
• Incremental Sheet Forming
Steps claim no responsibility if
• Bridge Tooling you take steps based on
information provided without
• SLS – Selective Laser Sintering
confirmation that the
• LOM – Laminated Object Manufacturing information is aimed at your
particular circumstances. Do
• Solid Ground Curing
not act on any information
• FDM – Fused Deposition Modeling provided without contacting
us.
• Vacuum Casting
• Thermo Forming
• SLA – Stereolithography
Although there are many different types of prototype methods to choose from, I have made a list of six of the
most commonly used methods. These methods are those that you will probably need to familiarize yourself
with in order to fully understand and engage in dialogue with your suppliers.
FDM
Also known as Fused Deposition Modeling, FDM is a process that generates final 3D parts using a layering
process. This process is completed by layering a molten bead of plastic extruded from a thin tube controlled
by a machine which mimics the final 3D design. Generally this prototype method is used to create parts for
form, fit and function tests and is an excellent process to approve the concept design.
1/6/2018
Different Types of Prototype Methods – Invention Steps Page 2 of 2

SLA
Typically known as Stereolithography, this process provides an accurate and excellent surface finish. SLS
works by curing photopolymers when exposed to ultraviolet light, turning the polymer into a solid part. SLA
is limited to its selection of materials but is an excellent tool for concept designs, pattern making, testing for
form and fit and generally verifying your product.

SLS
Typically referred to as Selective Laser Sintering, this process produces parts layer by layer using a laser that
accurately “welds” the powdered material together resulting in a 3D part. With the ability to use a number of
different materials, this process is suitable for functional analysis.

CNC
CNC is a process that uses a machine to directly machine the 3D part out of a solid billet of metal or plastic.
The term CNC means “Computer Numerical Control” and is highly accurate and is serves as a good tool for
repetitive parts. Once the initial program is written for the first part, the file can then be stored and used over
and over.

Vacuum Casting
Vacuum Casting (VC) is excellent for producing repetitive parts if more than one is required. A range of
polyurethanes and polymers can be used in this process. During this process, a highly accurate master
model is created which can be generated using any of the previous mentioned processes. The model is
carefully placed in a box and covered with liquid silicone rubber. Once set, the silicon is cut along a split line
(in half) and the master model is removed. What is remaining in the form of silicone can be used to recreate
the master part by pouring in and casting a large variety of polyurethane or epoxy materials to your required
shape.

Once you make the initial molds, it is then capable of producing a small volume of identical parts.

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