"Rapid prototyping" refers to a pre-manufacturing process in which designers create digital models of objects such as medical devices and consumer products, and then output the data files from 3D printers. The resulting sculptural forms serve as "draft" objects that help in testing the designs and iteratively refining them. Ultimately the prototypes lead to commercially viable solutions that are worth manufacturing in large quantities.

Download a brochure about CDI's rapid prototyping projects.

Connect to the Idea Exchange about rapid prototyping and 3D modeling.

We have some large pieces of the equipment at CDI to help with iterative design and modeling, rapid prototyping, and special output capabilities:

Z Corporation Spectrum Z 510 color 3D printer
This is a powder-based printer that can build parts up to 10”W x 14”D x 8”H, with a layer thickness of only 0.0035”. The printer uses a plaster-like powder that is held together with a color-infused liquid binding agent, to produce full-color sculptural outputs.

Dimension SST 1200es 3D printer
This printer has a build chamber capable of printing parts up to 10”W x 10”D x 12”H, with a layer thickness of 0.01”. It uses an ABS plastic material that is available in a variety of colors. The printing capability is monochrome, but separate parts can be printed in different colors and then assembled into complete multi-colored objects.

Epson Stylus Pro 9800 2D printer
This large-scale paper printer can output prints up to 44” wide for as long as the roll of paper or ink cartridges will last, at a resolution of 2,880 x 1,440 dpi. If you have ever wanted to print a life-sized image of the largest anaconda… you'd love this machine.