Anthony Venus
CAMM, The Industry Centre, University of Sunderland, Hylton Riverside West, Wessington Way, Sunderland, SR5 3XB
Amerdeep Riat
CAMM, The Industry Centre, University of Sunderland, Hylton Riverside West, Wessington Way, Sunderland, SR5 3XB
Time compression techniques such as 3D CAD, computer analysis (product functionality and process simulation), and Rapid Prototyping and Tooling (RPT) provide significant opportunities for improving product development and manufacturing strategy. The current research investigates wider issues of manufacturing strategy in addition to the application and use of time compression technologies. This paper describes the infrastructural requirements of RPT with emphasis on the North East of England and investigates the manufacturing business drivers that are influencing further development of RPT time compression technologies.