Rapid Prototyping

Due to a canceled trip to the engineering department at KU, we learned about rapid prototyping in our classroom instead.  Rapid prototyping is a quick and easy way that uses 3D printing to make full scale models of any design.  The different methods to rapid prototyping consists of  Steriolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS),  Fused Deposition Modeling(FDM), and Laminated Object Manufacturing(LOM). SLA uses an ultraviolet laser to form and harden each layer of plastic until it forms the model you have created in just a matter of hours. SLS has almost the same process as SLA, except it uses a C02 laser that forms and hardens each layer until it creates your model. FDM uses plastic to lay down layers and can move horizontally or vertically, and the material hardens immediately after being diffused. FOM glues together adhesive-coated paper, plastic, or metal laminates, and once that is finished, the shape of your model is cut out with a laser.