Software solutions for rapid prototyping

This book presents the state of the art in rapid prototyping (RP) software, discusses current problems, and determines directions for new research. Chapters describe different aspects of software systems and attempt to solve associated problems, covering commercial RP operating systems, an RP database, benchmarking, management of RP technology, and optimization through simulation. Other subjects covered are designing parts with variable material properties, reverse engineering, and virtual prototyping. Readers should have experience with RP and tools and methods used in software design. Material originated at a workshop held at The University of Hong Kong, and is of interest to those involved in RP technologies in industry and in academia. Gibson has been working in rapid prototyping for 10 years. The book is distributed in the US by ASME. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.

Ch. 1. Advanced pre-processor functionality for layered manufacturing -- Ch. 2. A web-based database system for RP machines, processes, and materials selection -- Ch. 3. Rapid prototyping and manufacturing (RP&M) benchmarking -- Ch. 4. Decision support and system selection for RP -- Ch. 5. Adaptive slicing for rapid prototyping -- Ch. 6. Multi-material representation and design issues -- Ch. 7. Feature methodologies for heterogeneous object realization -- Ch. 8. CAD modelling and slicing of heterogeneous objects for layered manufacturing -- Ch. 9. Reverse engineering and rapid prototyping -- Ch. 10. Virtual prototyping: a step before physical prototyping -- Ch. 11. Open issues