Current technology of manufacturing and its applicability for prototyping: a study of manufacturing methods
Westerlund, Samuel (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024060922412
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024060922412
Tiivistelmä
This thesis investigates modern manufacturing methods from a prototyping perspective to understand their selection process. Prototype building is a complex process, with the optimal method varying based on the product's specific physical requirements. This varying part complexity can be addressed by working backwards from the manufacturing method to the potential needs of a hypothetical end product. Therefore, this thesis focuses on researching the manufacturing methods to build knowledge of their universal application to prototyping.
The research is conducted through a literature review covering commonly used manufacturing methods across various metal, plastic, and composite processing subcategories. It includes a wide range of materials to gather sufficient data for comparing and reviewing the suitability of different prototyping methods. By analyzing the literature, we aim to identify common factors among these methods to compare them effectively against each other.
The study finds that traditional metal processing methods like casting and machining can manage a broader range of production volumes. In contrast, additive manufacturing methods are more suited for producing complex geometries at low volumes. The research also highlights a clear divide between methods suitable for metals and those for plastics and composites.
Ultimately, this research seeks to define the methods most applicable for prototyping and develop an understanding of the selection criteria for manufacturing prototypes. This thesis is expected to aid in making informed decisions and balancing factors like material suitability, production volume, and geometric complexity.
The research is conducted through a literature review covering commonly used manufacturing methods across various metal, plastic, and composite processing subcategories. It includes a wide range of materials to gather sufficient data for comparing and reviewing the suitability of different prototyping methods. By analyzing the literature, we aim to identify common factors among these methods to compare them effectively against each other.
The study finds that traditional metal processing methods like casting and machining can manage a broader range of production volumes. In contrast, additive manufacturing methods are more suited for producing complex geometries at low volumes. The research also highlights a clear divide between methods suitable for metals and those for plastics and composites.
Ultimately, this research seeks to define the methods most applicable for prototyping and develop an understanding of the selection criteria for manufacturing prototypes. This thesis is expected to aid in making informed decisions and balancing factors like material suitability, production volume, and geometric complexity.