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To illustrate the benefits of using the empirical similitude method when creating scale models with rapid prototyping processes, particularly in the context of evolutionary product design.

Apply the empirical similitude method in two experimental examples. Utilize rapid prototyping processes to create scale models. Both examples are based on the context of evolutionary product design. For one example, evaluate accuracy of empirical similitude results as compared to traditional similitude.

The first experimental example showed improved accuracy in the empirical similitude results as compared with traditional similitude. The second experimental example illustrated an effective approach for applying the empirical similitude method to a realistic product evolution.

Limited to two experimental examples. Examples involve a single prototyping process (selective laser sintering). Does not cover limitations of the empirical similitude method.

The approach provides for an effective way of utilizing rapid prototypes to predict the functional behavior of an evolutionary product. Rapid prototypes are readily available, but are rarely used in evaluating product function, due to limitations in part sizes and material properties.

This paper provides a practical way of utilizing rapid prototypes to predict the functional behavior of a product through scale models. It also illustrates the proposed method with two experimental examples.

Functional testing of rapid prototypes (RP) represents an exciting area of research in solid freeform fabrication. One approach to functional testing is to use similitude techniques to correlate the behavior of an RP model and a product. Previous research at UT, Austin has resulted in the development of an empirical similitude technique for correlating the behavior of parts with different material properties. Advances in the empirical similitude technique are presented in this paper. Sources of coupling between material properties and geometric shape that produce distortions in the current empirical similitude technique are outlined. A modified approach that corrects such distortions is presented. Numerical examples are used to illustrate both the current and the advanced empirical similitude methods.