Time-Compression Technologies Magazine Archive 2002 (and backfills for previous years)
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Author Todd Grimm and Terry Wohlers
Source Time Compression Technologies. v6 n4 May, 2001, pp 40-2
Abstract For nearly a decade there has been a great debate in rapid prototyping. The discussion is not about the best systems, materials or processes, or even the best ways to apply the technology; the debate is over its name and definition. With so many disparate processes using the term, rapid prototyping has become diluted and is losing a sense of clarity and meaning - especially to those new to the rapid prototyping industry. Past attempts at renaming the industry and its technologies demonstrate how difficult this change would be. Alternative names have included freeform fabrication, solid freeform fabrication, automated fabrication, solid imaging, additive manufacturing and layered manufacturing. Each of these alternatives was proposed and greeted with little support. Yet, within the realm of rapid prototyping, there has been some success with new names such as 3-D printers, concept modelers and direct metal deposition, which clearly illustrates the need and desire for clearly defined labels.No one k nows how these names and definitions will develop or if they will be accepted, but industry - led by the press and the media - will influence these names and definitions based on clarity, conciseness and ease of delivery. XX
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