Functional prototyping in 3D Printing - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is functional prototyping in 3D printing?

Functional prototyping is creating 3D printed models that are designed to test and demonstrate how a product will work in real life, not just how it looks.

beginner

Why is functional prototyping important?

It helps find design problems early, saves money by avoiding costly mistakes, and allows testing of the product's performance before full production.

intermediate

Name two common materials used in functional prototyping with 3D printing.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and Nylon are common materials because they are strong and durable for testing real-world use.

beginner

How does functional prototyping differ from visual prototyping?

Functional prototyping focuses on testing how a product works, while visual prototyping focuses only on how it looks without testing function.

intermediate

What is one limitation of functional prototyping using 3D printing?

3D printed prototypes may not perfectly match the strength or finish of the final product made with other manufacturing methods.

What is the main goal of functional prototyping?

A To make a product look shiny

B To create a colorful model

C To reduce the size of a product

D To test how a product works

Functional prototyping is about testing the product's function, not just its appearance.

Which material is commonly used for functional prototypes due to its strength?

A ABS

B PLA

C Wax

D Paper

ABS is strong and durable, making it suitable for functional prototypes.

Functional prototyping helps to:

A Make the product heavier

B Only improve the product's color

C Find design problems early

D Avoid testing the product

It helps identify issues before full production.

Which is NOT a focus of functional prototyping?

A Checking product fit

B Evaluating product aesthetics only

C Testing product durability

D Verifying product function

Functional prototyping is about function, not just looks.

A limitation of 3D printed functional prototypes is:

A They may not perfectly match final product strength

B They cannot be tested

C They cannot be made in color

D They always cost more than final products

3D printed prototypes might differ in strength compared to final manufacturing methods.

Explain what functional prototyping is and why it is useful in product development.

Think about how prototypes help before making the final product.

Describe the difference between functional prototyping and visual prototyping.

One tests function, the other tests looks.