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EnglishShort definitionA prototype is an early version of a final product in which the functionalities and design of the end product can be tested and simulated. Prototypes are usually created in the development process shortly before series production and are used to optimize the product. It is not uncommon for several prototypes to be created, which are adapted on the basis of feedback and evaluation. Prototypes can be produced using various manufacturing processes. The creation of digital models using CAD software is also suitable for pure design optimization.
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CAD (Computer-Aided Design) softwareCAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is best suited for creating technical drawings. This software helps with the creation, modification, and optimization of drawings and can display models in 3D. CAD software is particularly helpful for standardizing drawings, as it significantly improves accuracy and efficiency and facilitates functional simulation.
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FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)A special form of 3D printing is the FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) process. In this process, thermoplastic materials are extruded layer by layer and deposited on top of one another to create a 3D object. This 3D printing method is primarily used when prototypes and small series need to be produced cost-effectively and without great demands on surface quality. Plastics such as ABS, PLA or nylon are usually used for production; these are melted through a nozzle and then precisely applied. The layer-by-layer production makes it possible to depict complex geometries and shapes. This allows design features to be precisely represented and optimized, especially during the development phase of a product.
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Injection molding is a manufacturing process in which molten material - usually plastic or metal - is injected into a mould or tool under high pressure. This process is mainly used in plastics and metal processing to produce precise and complex components in large quantities. Injection allows detailed shapes to be produced with tight tolerances and consistent quality, which is essential for series production. The technology enables efficient production processes, reduced material waste and quick changeover between different product variants. In industry, injection plays a central role in the production of components for the automotive, electronics, consumer goods and many other sectors. The optimization of the injection process contributes significantly to the competitiveness and innovative capacity of manufacturing companies.
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CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) softwareCAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software is a digital aid for the manufacturing process. By programming machines and tools, CAD models are translated into instructions that enable the machines to perform highly precise and efficient machining operations. CAM software is particularly important for metal and plastics processing because it automates manufacturing processes, reduces human errors, and improves product quality. Examples of CAM programs include Mastercam and SolidCAM.
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SLA (stereolithography)The SLA (stereolithography) process is a special 3D printing process in which 3D models are created by curing liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer with a UV laser. The advantage of this process is that very smooth surfaces can be produced thanks to the high precision. The process is useful for detailed parts in prototype construction or for small parts. In contrast to other 3D printing processes, SLA is one of the slower ones, which is due to the superior level of detail. Depending on the resin, the product from SLA printing can differ in terms of flexibility, strength or temperature resistance.
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Nesting (optimization)Nesting is a type of optimization in sheet metal processing. Nesting involves arranging multiple parts on a single sheet as closely as possible in order to minimize material waste and thus the waste of resources. By using special nesting software, DXF files can be created to maximize the use of material. When arranging the parts on a single sheet, many parameters such as part geometry, cutting paths and machine thickness must be taken into account in order to achieve a real difference in resource utilization and costs.
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