Selection and evaluation of rapid tooling process chains with Protool

Abstract

The article describes a two‐step decision support methodology for selecting and evaluating manufacturing process chains and its application in the software system Protool. Special attention is paid to the production of models, prototypes, moulds, and dies using new and innovative technologies such as rapid prototyping or high speed cutting (HSC). One of the main goals is the comparison of rapid prototyping process chains among one another as well as conventional manufacturing technologies (e.g. NC‐milling) to rapid prototyping/rapid tooling. Furthermore the methodology allows the selection of suitable process chains considering the criteria quality, time, cost, and ecology for given manufacturing tasks. The different features of Protool will be demonstrated in a planning session for the production of an injection mould.

Citation

Kaschka, U. and Auerbach, P. (2000), "Selection and evaluation of rapid tooling process chains with Protool", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 6 No. 1, pp. 60-66. https://doi.org/10.1108/13552540010309886