Rapid prototyping or rapid production? 3D printing processes move industry towards the latter

Rapid manufacturing - defined as the direct production of finished goods from a rapid prototyping device - remains at present more a goal than reality for industry. The application of 3D printing technologies, however, promises to merge rapid prototyping capabilities with the high-volume throughput of conventional manufacturing. Proponents believe that these processes may soon lead to the tooless production of finished goods and the mass production of individually customized parts.