Throwback Thursday: Rapid Tooling

Since launching MMT back in 1998, we have been covering additive manufacturing. Well, rapid prototyping, rapid tooling, rapid manufacturing ... or whatever it was being called a the time. Here is a look at an article from 2000 examining rapid tooling. It's amazing how far we've come.  

Back then, author Todd Grimm, who is still very involved in the AM industry, said, "Rapid tooling is not about the process, it's about how fast results can be achieved and success is not gained solely from employing a leading-edge technology, it's the combination of tools, methods, processes and people that makes the solution rapid. To be prepared for tomorrow, a three-step strategic plan is required: (1) work the flow to eliminate inefficiencies in the process, (2) incorporate the latest, proven technological advances and (3) be aware of the current and future capabilities of the 3-D CAD-driven, additive process labeled "rapid tooling."

Read entire article here. And for current technology, trends and news in the world of additive manufacturing, visit Additive Manufacturing magazine.