In via recta celeriter (in the right way quickly)

Abstract

Provides a short history of the biggest collaborative research project on rapid prototyping in Europe – Computer‐Aided Rapid Prototyping (CARP) – which is concerned with the concept of design and manufacture “right first time”. Introduces the organizations involved with the project, and discusses some of the results, including the manufacture of functional components from rapid prototype models. Discusses some of the issues relating to data transfer and the limitations of CAD. Finishes with a view of how the technology is evolving and how and where it might be applied in the near future.