Laser–Induced Materials and Processes for Rapid Prototyping

Rapid Prototyping (RP) and tooling (RT) technologies have attracted tremendous R&D interests from both academia and industry in the past decade. More recent interests in RP technologies are towards functional applications of the fabricated parts, such as in rapid tooling applications and replacements of damaged components. Many RP processes and materials have been commercialized but are yet to be able to fulfill the functional requirements because of limited mechanical strengths of fabricated parts. This book thus focuses on the fundamental issues of the laser–induced RP materials and processes. The remedies and possible solutions to RP/RT pertaining to materials and processes are included. The highlighted research issues and presented results are not only informative, but will also be very useful for future commercial developments.