Rapid prototyping process selection using graph theory and matrix approach

This paper presents a methodology for selection of a rapid prototyping (RP) process that best suits the end use of a given product or part using graph theory and matrix approach. A ‘rapid prototyping process selection index’ is proposed to evaluate and rank the RP processes for producing a given product or part. The index is obtained from a RP process selection attributes function, obtained from the RP process selection attributes digraph. The digraph is developed considering RP process selection attributes and their relative importance for the considered application. An example is included to illustrate the approach.