Design methods applied to the selection of a rapid prototyping resource

The article first introduces the problem in question and discusses the interest in implementing a concurrent engineering approach. It focuses on the relevant rapid prototyping techniques likely to be used in order to make the design and production processes more reliable. Next, the article describes in generic terms the advantages of using the QFD method as a decision making tool. The practical case study chosen is related to the selection of a prototyping resource. After identifying the functions to be fulfilled by the rapid prototyping resource, a technology deployment matrix is built and the principles leading to the results are commented upon.