Abstract :
Fiat ran an advertising campaign with the tag ´hand-built by robots´. Today, the tag ´hand-built by lasers´ could be applied to products made using rapid manufacturing techniques.Otherwise known as additive layer manufacturing (ALM) or direct freeform manufacturing, rapid manufacturing grows parts from elements to be precise unlike a subtractive manufacturing technique such as CNC machining. ALM allows a manufacturer to make something with a hole or even a matrix or latticework in it without using separate castings. The author mentions that additive manufacturing technologies are finding ready acceptance in a range of industries.
