Rapid prototyping has several important features:

l) It is possible to manufacture arbitrarily complex three-dimensional geometric entities. Due to the principle of discrete / stacked forming. It simplifies a very complex 3D manufacturing process into a superposition of 2D processes, enabling the machining of arbitrarily complex shaped parts. The more complex the part, the better the RP technology is. In addition, the RP technology is especially suitable for parts that are difficult to manufacture or even impossible to manufacture by conventional methods such as complex cavities and complex profiles.

2) Rapidity. Design and processing information for a new part can be obtained by modifying or reorganizing a CAD model. Parts can be manufactured from hours to tens of hours, with outstanding features for rapid manufacturing.

3) Highly flexible. Complete complex manufacturing processes without the need for any special fixtures or tools to quickly manufacture tooling, prototypes or parts

4) Rapid prototyping technology has achieved two advanced goals pursued by the mechanical engineering discipline for many years. That is, the extraction of materials (gas, liquid solid phase) process and manufacturing process integration and design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) integration

5) Combine with Reverse Engineering, CAD technology, network technology, virtual reality, etc., and become a powerful tool for product development.

Therefore, rapid prototyping technology plays an increasingly important role in the manufacturing field and will have an important impact on the manufacturing industry.