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Rapid Manufacturing; What RP will be when it grows up... (C) Copyright Castle Island Co., All Rights Reserved.
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TransportationAutomotiveIf it follows that developments which first appear on the race track eventually find their way into the commercial automobile population, then there should be a great future for rapid manufacturing in automotive and motorcycle applications. For the last several years, Formula 1 racing has had a steadily-increasing flirtation with rapid prototyping, and it’s probably safe to say at this point that the fields have pretty much consummated the marriage. This highly competitive field thrives on minute modifications and variations that make the difference between winning and losing. Wind tunnel and prototype components were quickly followed by race-useable parts made by rapid manufacturing, and there are now several joint ventures between auto makers and RP technology companies. This business segment will continue to expand considerably if RM-equipped racing teams steadily collect more trophies. While not many of us need the same components and rapid turnaround of racing teams, custom seats, steering wheels, gear knobs and hand brakes built to individual requirements are thought to be of enough interest to give rise to the Foresight Vehicle Initiative in Europe. This effort involves more than 400 companies and universities and will explore the possibilities of automotive customization. For example, it's thought that seats designed to individual requirements will increase comfort, reduce fatigue and be safer. Dashboard air-ducts could be designed by drivers and built to order at a local dealership. Of course, if another person drives your car, he or she may be less comfortable and less safe in your custom seat - and your personally designed air-duct may stifle him or her, and make his or her hair look like a wet rat. In short, there may be a few kinks to work out and some unexpected consequences of highly personalizing automobiles. Nevertheless, if there are enough people to buy Hummers, there are enough people to make this a market segment that needs exploration. While many individuals in the minority luxury segment of the automobile market may well be willing to pay the freight for customization, it may be that the vast majority of the population will benefit the most from rapid manufacturing without even being aware of it. The ability to economically fabricate complex structures using multiple materials means that it will be possible make parts with previously unattainable functionality. Such parts may provide improved fuel savings and engine life, or lower assembly costs. For example, metal matrix composites may provide extraordinarily durable, low-inertia valves, and Sprayforming (TM) is being explored to make motors, actuators, generators and permanent magnets as integral assemblies. These sorts of prosaic and invisible improvements may provide greater customer benefits and have larger economic consequences than product personalization. But they're not as sexy.
Arguments Against Mass-customization...
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RP Digest / Case Studies.
Rapid Tooling & Mfg. Technology Tables.
RP Technology, Brief Tutorial.
RP's Frequently Asked Questions.
