Rapid Prototyping: A Global View

Abstract

Rapid prototyping technology is advancing at a tremendous rate. Much of this progress is due to research being conducted within academic institutions and industry throughout the world. The USA is leading the research community in this field but a significant contribution is coming from Europe, Japan and elsewhere. The primary aim of this paper is to give a worldwide overview of current research activity and initiatives. Hopefully, this will enable researchers to see where their own work fits into the global picture. If this leads to increased co-operation and a reduction in duplication of effort, then an even faster rate of advance should be attainable.