09. What is 3D prototyping used for, and when do you use it?

3D prototyping enables us to quickly validate the geometry and feasibility of a part before committing to tooling, which significantly reduces design validation times compared with a traditional prototyping cycle. In some cases, depending on the material, it also enables us to produce a few functional units directly, without having to wait for mass production to begin. This is not a routine step: we use it when the complexity of the part or the importance of the project warrants it, in consultation with you.