Relationship marketing, Marketing research, Customer relations, Customer loyalty, Database marketing, and Commercial products

As relationship marketing research evolved, a number of key constructs emerged. Some scholars have argued that these constructs are not conceptually or empirically distinct. We investigate this phenomenon based on the premise that sustained research effort towards studying conceptually overlapping/redundant constructs, while treating them as independent, can hamper the development of the field. We use prototyping, a method adopted from psychology, to examine consumers’ views of these constructs, and then identify relationship contexts where constructs are distinct or redundant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systems engineering, Rapid prototyping, Defense industries, Manufacturing processes, and Likelihood ratio tests

In 2007, John Young, then-Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, mandated the use of "competitive prototyping" strategies in defense acquisition. Further, Department of Defense Instruction 5000.02 includes considerations for prototyping in the acquisition strategy. A 2017 memorandum circulated by Young lists five prototyping benefits, which are expected to "reduce technical risk, validate designs, validate cost estimates, evaluate manufacturing processes, and refine requirements." However, a process to assess whether, and to what extent, a prototype will be or has been successful in achieving these benefits is not currently in use by the Department of Defense. Because cost increases and schedule extension downsides are inherent in prototyping, such an assessment is critical. This research proposes an approach for assessing the likelihood of achieving expected prototyping benefits based on identifying the factors yielding these benefits as well as their relative weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Customer cocreation, Business enterprises, and Value chains

We develop a conceptual framework that examines the behavior of the solutions-oriented-firm from initial solutions generation, through the "sale" and delivery to an initial customer, and its potential dissemination to the broader marketplace as a more standardized product/service offering. Particular attention is paid to the emerging discussion of value co-creation and Service-Dominant logic. Key tenets of the Austrian School of Economics are leveraged to identify how the selling firm, sales employee, and buying firm co-create value, and the "solution" itself. Thus, providing a deeper understanding of the "end-to-end" value chain of activities and drivers of firm performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information resources management, Rapid prototyping, Industrial surveys, Computer software developers, Systems design, Organization, Contingency theory (Management), Management science, Systems development, Empirical research, Prototypes, and Computer systems

Many proposed contingencies regarding the conditions when the use of prototyping will lead to successful system development appear in the literature. Using an industry survey, this exploratory study empirically investigates the effect of certain contingencies on system success. Overall, results indicate that five variables, when combined with prototyping, affect system success (as indicated by user satisfaction): innovativeness of the project, impact of the system on the organization, user participation, number of users, and developer experience with prototyping. These results provide some insight into the proper uses of prototyping to improve system success. The results also indicate that several of the current contingencies, if followed, do not ensure high levels of system success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target costing, Prototypes, Product design, Rapid prototyping, and Suppliers

Prototyping allows firms to evaluate the technical feasibility of alternative product designs and to better estimate their costs. We study a collaborative prototyping scenario in which a manufacturer involves a supplier in the prototyping process by letting the supplier make detailed design choices for critical components and provide prototypes for testing. While the supplier can obtain private information about the costs, the manufacturer uses target costing to gain control over the design choice. We show that involving the supplier in the prototyping process has an important influence on the manufacturer's optimal decisions. The collaboration results in information asymmetry, which makes parallel prototyping less attractive and potentially reverses the optimal testing sequence under sequential prototyping: It may be optimal to test designs in increasing order of attractiveness to avoid that the supplier does not release technically and economically feasible prototypes for strategic reasons. We also find that the classical target costing approaches (cost‐ and market‐based) need to be adjusted in the presence of alternative designs: Due to the strategic behavior of suppliers, it is not always optimal to provide identical target costs for designs with similar cost and performance estimates, nor to provide different target costs for dissimilar designs. Furthermore, the timing is important: While committing upfront to carefully chosen target costs reduces the supplier's strategic behavior, in some circumstances, the manufacturer can take advantage of this behavior by remaining flexible and specifying the second prototype's target costs later. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid prototyping, Management information systems, Decision support systems, Prototypes, and Production engineering

A new method is proposed for selecting the most appropriate rapid prototyping process according to user's specific requirements by using the expert system and fuzzy synthetic evaluation. The selection process is divided into two stages. First, it is necessary to generate feasible alternatives, which are executed under the expert system environment. Second, given those feasible alternatives, the fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach is employed to produce a ranking order of the alternatives and to finalize the most suirapid prototyping system. One distinctive characteristic of this method is that quantitative as well as qualitative measures are employed, providing more accurate results. The decision system developed based on the proposed method is composed of four modules: a database to store the specifications of various rapid prototyping processes; a knowledge-based expert system for determining the feasible alternatives; a fuzzy synthetic evaluation model to select the most suitable rapid prototyping process; and a user interface and an expert interface to interact with the system. The fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach used in the system is illustrated in detail by a numerical example. Furthermore, a Java-enabled solution, together with web techniques, is employed for developing such a networked decision support system. Finally, two examples of rapid prototyping process selection are designed to demonstrate the application of the system. The system has been implemented and can run at a rapid prototyping and manufacturing networked service platform that the authors have developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application software, Rapid prototyping, Computer software, Computer-aided design, Manufacturing processes, and Interpolation

A direct-slicing approach might improve the accuracy and quality of small, complex parts produced with rapid prototyping technology. An application software based on direct slicing for rapid prototyping was used on the foundation of PowerSHAPE models. Lines, conic arcs and cubic bezier curves were adopted as the basic elements describing the direct-slicing contours. Moreover, a scheme to carry out subdivided software development was proposed. A picture (PIC) format file was selected as an interface for the slicing data, and a macro-AutoSection software, which collects the direct-slicing contour data of arbitrary complex computer-aided design models and provides power to produce the direct-slicing PIC files, was developed. On the above basis, an application software called PDSlice based on direct-slicing data processing was developed for the commercial selective laser sintering machine HRPS-III, which was made at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), P. R. China. The major input and output interfaces as well as the PIC model reconstruction method of the PDSlice are described. Furthermore, a batch of direct-slicing polymer parts were successfully fabricated with the selective laser sintering machine. The application example shows that the accuracy and surface finish of three-dimensional complex curvature surface parts fabricated with the application software system based on a direct-slicing format were better than the application software system based on a stereolithography (STL) format. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prototypes, Rapid prototyping, Computer integrated manufacturing systems, Industrial engineering, Mathematical models, Production planning, Computer-aided process planning, New product development, Concurrent engineering, Programming languages, C (Computer program language), Job analysis, and Manufacturing process automation

This paper presents a generative process planning system for parts produced by the rapid prototyping process (i.e. fused deposition modelling-FDM). The proposed process planning involves optimal selection of orientating the model with a proper support structure and then provides an intelligent slicing methodology, such as direct or adaptive, to minimise the built up time, keeping the geometry and cusp height errors in control. Pre- and post-slicing processes have been used to minimise the sliced data error. The Computer Aided Process Planning (CAPP) model has been arranged into five modules: orientation, support structure generation, slicing, path planning and Numerical Control (NC) program generation, and model build up. The CAPP model has been implemented in C language having a unique methodology consisting of 42 simplified steps. The CAPP model has been tested for several examples and shows satisfactory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid prototyping, Computer-aided design, Prototypes, Finite element method, CAD/CAM systems, and Lithography

Rapid prototyping (RP) is an emerging, non-traditional fabrication method and has been recognized as a valid tool to shorten the lead-time from design to manufacture effectively. Most of the current RP systems adopt the triangular meshes of stereolithoraphy (STL) as a standard format for data input. Thus, the construction of triangular meshes directly affects the quality of RP parts and their subsequent processes. Traditionally, STL data are output from 3D CAD models built using commercial 3D CAD/CAM software packages. This study, however, differs from the traditional way in that it generates the STL data directly from scanned 3D data points, thus preventing various problems associated with 3D CAD modelling from a large quantity of data points. Specific tasks involved in this study include: (1) development of the methodology to convert massive data points into numerous, connected triangular meshes, (2) determination of unit normal vector for each triangular mesh facet, (3) output of triangular meshes with normal vectors in STL format, and (4) slicing of triangular-mesh model into a series of 2D sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prototypes, Rapid prototyping, Industrial efficiency, Manufacturing processes, Industrial productivity, Industrial management, and Layer structure (Solids)

The geometric description used to represent solid objects significantly affects the accuracy and quality of the final parts produced with rapid prototyping (RP) technology. This paper discusses the alternative method of adaptive direct slicing for RP. Direct slicing generates precise contours for each layer from the solid model and avoids an intermediate representation. Adaptive slicing modifies the layer thickness to take into account the curvature of the surface of the solid model in the vertical direction, to alleviate the staircase effect, and to decrease the number of layers. Thereby, adaptive direct slicing potentially enables part fabrication with higher accuracy and production efficiency. This paper presents a new, practical approach to adaptive direct slicing based on the area deviation ratio. The slicing strategy and algorithm are also described. The corresponding procedure was implemented and tested on Windows 95/98 and NT 4.0 with AutoCAD R14. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CLOUD computing, THREE-dimensional printing, RAPID prototyping, MANUFACTURING processes, and RESEARCH & development

At present, some service platforms for 3D manufacturing encounter problems, including the low level of integration with digital design ability, the single character of cooperative printings, the uneven distribution of 3D printing resources, and the high 3D design requirements of users. To overcome these issues, a cloud service platform for the seamless integration of digital design and rapid prototyping manufacturing was established using ASP.NET, WebGL, WebSocket, and SQL Server in combination with C# language and JavaScript. The goals were to realize a design and rapid prototyping of mechanical equipment parts that are browser based and provide online digital design services, such as the parametric design of key parts, downloading of models, format conversion, and virtual assembly. The client application layer, server processing layer, database layer, and working machine end application layer of this cloud 3D printing platform were set up. The result of the design module could be printed remotely in 3D. Practical application showed that the platform could effectively improve the R&D and design speed of the parts and components of the mechanical equipment and reduce the effort of designers. In particular, this platform would be suitable for users without a 3D design background. The design and rapid prototyping parts of the platform satisfied the dimensional precision required by enterprises, which provides an important basis for the further verification of the design correctness for small- and medium-sized enterprises and has high application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

THERMAL insulation, RAPID prototyping, AERODYNAMIC heating, THERMAL conductivity, FREE convection, and TECHNOLOGY

Nowadays, 3-D printing technology is very often applied in industry due to design cycles shortening and surface quality improvement when comparing to conventional manufacturing technologies. In order to adapt 3-D printed materials as thermal barriers, it is necessary to determine its thermophysical properties. As far as thermal insulation is concerned, the lowest thermal conductivity is required and therefore the crucial parameter of the material is the porosity. This paper presents the results of experimental investigation of effective thermal conductivity of thermal barriers with variable porosity fabricated by the fused filament fabrication technology. Also the numerical study was presented. The commercial code - COMSOL multiphysics was used to model the coupled heat transfer. The model was than validated by comparing the numerical and experimental results. For each sample the density and thermal conductivity were determined experimentally. The influence of the size and shape of the cell on the formation of free convection was investigated in particular. The effect of the conduction and radiation on temperature and velocity profiles within the enclosure has been analyzed. In addition, the dominant heat transfer mechanisms as a function of density have been identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Government regulation, Company business management, Human services -- Laws, regulations and rules, Human services -- Psychological aspects, Pilot projects -- Management, Pilot projects -- Psychological aspects, Policy sciences -- Methods, Policy sciences -- Psychological aspects, and Prototypes (Psychology) -- Analysis

"I didn't know it would take this long, or what the next stepes were. I waited a long time and had to hurry to complete some forms before a deadline. [...]

RAPID prototyping, COMPUTED tomography, VETERINARY anatomy, SKULL, THREE-dimensional printing, and SKULL morphology

This study’s objective was to determine the accuracy of using current computed tomography (CT) scan and software techniques for rapid prototyping by quantifying the margin of error between CT models and laser scans of canine skull specimens. Twenty canine skulls of varying morphology were selected from an anatomy collection at a veterinary school. CT scans (bone and standard algorithms) were performed for each skull, and data segmented (testing two lower threshold settings of 226HU and -650HU) into 3-D CT models. Laser scans were then performed on each skull. The CT models were compared to the corresponding laser scan to determine the error generated from the different types of CT model parameters. This error was then compared between the different types of CT models to determine the most accurate parameters. The mean errors for the 226HU CT models, both bone and standard algorithms, were not significant from zero error (p = 0.1076 and p = 0.0580, respectively). The mean errors for both -650HU CT models were significant from zero error (p < 0.001). Significant differences were detected between CT models for 3 CT model comparisons: Bone (p < 0.0001); Standard (p < 0.0001); and -650HU (p < 0.0001). For 226HU CT models, a significant difference was not detected between CT models (p = 0.2268). Independent of the parameters tested, the 3-D models derived from CT imaging accurately represent the real skull dimensions, with CT models differing less than 0.42 mm from the real skull dimensions. The 226HU threshold was more accurate than the -650HU threshold. For the 226HU CT models, accuracy was not dependent on the CT algorithm. For the -650 CT models, bone was more accurate than standard algorithms. Knowing the inherent error of this procedure is important for use in 3-D printing for surgical planning and medical education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid prototyping, Production engineering, Manufacturing processes, Industrial engineering, Powder injection molding, Maraging steel, Sintering, Injection molding of metals, Materials, Research methodology, and Metallurgical research

In this research work, attempts have been made to design, develop and evaluate the performance of mould inserts for injection moulding by using a powder-sintering process. Maraging steel powder, sintering aid and binder are materials used in this proposed development process. Attempts have been made to perform in-depth studies and to apply the powder-sintering process, to eventually produce the final sintered components. In addition, an analysis of the dimensional accuracy of the respective stereolithography master models and an analysis of the sintered specimens during various stages of powder-sintering process have been carried out. The intelligent manufacturing systems (IMS) test part with minor modifications has been used in the evaluation of dimensional accuracy, tolerances, distortion and volumetric variations. The main reason for using this unique geometry is the suitability of its design for injection-moulding processes and tooling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid prototyping, Computer-aided design, CAD/CAM systems, Computer integrated manufacturing systems, and Reverse engineering

The reverse engineering and rapid prototyping, walking hand-in-hand exactly fulfill the task for which are suitable -- to help quickly construct and reconstruct the damaged components. Our goal is to find areas where the technologies are not yet widely available, or find the technologies that can be used for industrial purposes and for the everyday practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid prototyping, Manufacturing processes, New product development, Innovations in business, Industrial designers, Industrial design coordination, and Social media

The article discusses the rise of live prototyping in microbrands as part of the ongoing changes in product development and product innovation, focusing on how industrial designers participate in the industrial design process amidst the growth of social media tools. It explores the relationships between product designer, user and customers. Also discussed are software and industrial converge, corporate design, and in-market prototyping.

Rapid prototyping, Paraffin wax, Centrifugal casting, Tensile strength, and Grain size

Centrifugal casting is a technology used for manufacturing hybrid rocket paraffin grains. This technology helps avoiding voids formation inside the solid paraffin as it cools. Voids are formed because of air bubbles being entrapped while pouring and because the liquid wax shrinks by 17–19% upon cooling. In this work, the centrifugal casting process for the manufacturing of paraffin cylinders was prototyped at two different scales considering critical casting issues. The effects of process parameters (rotational speed, melt temperature, and flow rate) on the tensile properties of the manufactured grains were analyzed. The results of the optimization conducted at the lower scale (2.5 kg) were up scaled to manufacture 25 kg grains. The resulting mechanical properties complied with the design specifications, and they were better than those characterized from the gravity cast wax. A numerical model of growth and dissolution of bubbles during the process was then developed to predict the quality of the castings. The numerical results showed how increasing the mold rotational speed up to 1800 rpm reduced the removal time. However, compared to grains solidification time, the predicted removal times were much shorter, proving the advantage of centrifugal casting in counteracting voids formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Materials handling, Production scheduling, Queuing theory, Fuzzy logic, and Automated guided vehicle systems

This paper describes a Grid-like Material Transportation Network (GMTN) in which several heterogeneous means of transportation (Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), hoists, lifts, etc.) interact with each other via common shared workstations to provide a variety of demand-responsive material handling operations. Different material handling transport modes provide movement of workpieces between workstations along their manufacturing routes in the GMTN and they can be seen as processes realized with synergic utilization of various local periodically acting unimodal processes. The main contribution of this research is the solution of a constraint satisfaction problem addressing AGVs fleet match-up scheduling subject to GMTN and fuzzy operation time constraints. In the presented case both production rate (production takt) and operations execution time are described by imprecise (fuzzy) data. In other words, the research's objective concerns assessing grid-like networks of periodically acting local transportation modes from the perspective of possible mass-customized oriented requirements imposed on scheduling of multimodal flows of jobs assigned to certain technological routes passing through common shared workstations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid prototyping, Three-dimensional modeling (Computer graphics), Computer-aided design, Cost control, Composite structures, and Three-dimensional printing

Current methods for rapid prototyping of composite products, applied by a computer during manufacturing, allow for materializing even the most complex 3D objects created in a CAD application in a very short time and without any subsequent processing. After determining the validity of a designed prototype, it can be physically implemented using standard methods or tools for plastic injection molding. This paper presents application of commercial CAD programming packages in modelling 3D objects for rapid implementation of composite prototypes using layer-by-layer method. This specific method, in which the shape of the product is built by adding, instead of separation or deformation of materials, offers a number of advantages over other similar methods. Amongst the most prominent ones are producing parts directly from a file, reduced processing and operation planning time, process implementation without the use of tools, reduced production cost, increased product quality, improved design, faster audit and product review. This method slowly gives way to the process of 3D printing, which, according to some indicators, being current job in the next 20 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]