Rapid prototyping refers to techniques used to quickly create scale models or functional prototypes of a physical part, assembly, or digital interface, often using computer-aided design (CAD). It's widely applied in product development, software design, and manufacturing to test ideas, validate designs, and iterate rapidly with minimal resources. The choice depends on the domain (e.g., hardware vs. software) and requirements like material, speed, and cost.
Common Tools and Methods
Based on established practices, here are key tools and methods that can be used for rapid prototyping. I've categorized them for clarity: