Rapid prototyping is a faster, more cost-effective method for building prototypes from three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) drawings. Rapid Prototyping provides a fundamental overview of the general manufacturing process and presents the principles and applications of designing and fabricating parts in a format that makes learning easy. This user-friendly text clearly covers the rapid prototyping process for students and can also be used as a reference in a new product design and process development. Packed with real-world problems and case studies, Rapid Prototyping features: * Basic information on layered manufacturing processes, the essential vocabulary to be conversant in nomenclature and widely recognized acronyms, and numerous review exercises * A full section of applications to stimulate both discussion and outside research on the ever-expanding arena of rapid prototyping applications * Essential information for potential users of the rapid prototyping technology in an academic or industrial setting, including helpful material for further study and applications to real-world problems Rapid Prototyping is the perfect introductory book for design engineers in manufacturing, government organizations, and associations; researchers at universities and government labs; and students.