Rapid prototyping
To help develop this article, click 'Edit this article' above.
A recent technology, since the 1980s this has been an important asset for countless industries and projects that need an extra level of rendering to enhance work done.
An additive process – rapid prototyping uses materials such as adhesives and photopolymers – by joining particles and layers of raw materials together to create the desired shape. It differs from more traditional processes, which typically compress and subtract rather than add.
First, a virtual 3D model must be created using CAD software. This digital rendering is a simulation of the final product. The design is then converted so that the prototype can be printed as efficiently and accurately as possible – allowing the printer to interpret the design in a language it understands. Checks are needed throughout the process to ensure no mistakes are made during printing.
There are a number of benefits of rapid prototyping:
- Short turnarounds.
- Accuracy ensured before the final product is constructed.
- Cost-efficient.
- High-quality product.
- It can produce small parts and cavities.
- It allows issues to be corrected at the beginning of the process rather than carrying them into the final product.
- It is 'eco-friendly' as it generates less waste.
See also additive manufacturing.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Safety Wiki Interviews
Chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.