TABLE OF CONTENTS This manufacturing approach integrates computer-aided design (CAD) with rapid forming techniques to rapidly create a prototype (sometimes with embedded sensors) that can be used to visualize or test the part before making the investment in tooling required for a production run. Originally, the prototypes were made of plastic or ceramic materials and were not functional models, but now the capability exists to make a functional part, e.g., out of titanium. See, for example, the discussion of reverse-engineered bones in the section on biomedical engineering.
As discussed above, agile manufacturing systems are envisioned that can connect the customer to the product throughout its life cycle and enable global business enterprises. An order would be processed using a computer-aided design, the manufacturing system would be configured in real time for the specific product (e.g., model, style, color, and options), raw materials and components would be acquired just in time, and the product would be delivered and tracked throughout its life cycle (including maintenance and recycling with identification of the customer).
Components of the business enterprise could be dynamically based in the most cost-effective locations with all networked together globally. The growth of this type of business enterprise could accelerate business globalization.
