(1) Design Engineering Research Centre, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, Western Avenue, Cardiff, Wales, CF5 2YB, UK;(2) Department of Design, Brunel University, Englefield Green, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0JZ, UK
Abstract:
This paper describes the initial development of a computer based Rapid Prototyping Design Advice System. The system is intended to assist the designer or project manager, particularly those in small and medium sized companies, in planning the prototyping stage of product development. It provides the user with an efficient and user friendly development aid which uses information obtained from the user and Computer Aided Design data to recommend suitable rapid prototyping solutions.