Bitte wählen Sie ihr Lieferland und ihre Kundengruppe
A Delphi survey was carried out in Switzerland with the aim of finding out the actual use and benefits applying Layer Manufacturing technologies in a typical product development cycle. Nearly 50 users or potential users grouped in nine branches were questioned. The results indicate the main application frequencies of Rapid Prototyping (RP), Rapid Tooling (RT) and Rapid Manufacturing (RM) in the development phases from conception to the final production of the new products. Furthermore the processes used and advantages gained were analyzed. The target in using the techniques, the expectations and benefits gained are given. Additionally the degree of satisfaction is quantified. The survey concludes with future desideration of the users and future process chain option requirements. Research necessities were identified with user priority as a basis for future projects.