Bus In-Person: Intro to Rapid Prototyping

Rapid Prototyping: Idea to Reality … Rapidly!
Three In-Person Sessions
Mon., Apr. 21, 28, May 5, 2025, 6:30-8:30 pm MT

What is rapid prototyping? Why is it becoming popular in the world of business and beyond? And more importantly, how does it help you bring your own personal ideas to life? “Rapid prototyping typically refers to computer numerical control (CNC) technologies that interpret geometric code to make a prototype quickly,” says DU professor Michael Caston. “And there are two types of CNC technology: additive and subtractive.” He notes that, as the terms suggest, additive CNC technology builds objects by adding material layer by layer, and subtractive CNC technology removes materials to create objects. Join Caston as he shows you how to up your entrepreneurial game using the tools of rapid prototyping that include 2D and 3D computer-aided design, laser engraving and 3D printing manufacturing technologies. Caston says the course’s curriculum “gradually builds upon itself” presenting more challenging problems as the class progresses. “You work on solving simple design and prototyping exercises usually in groups of three,” he says. “And we discuss and demonstrate real-world problems.” And only about a fourth of the class is lecture time; the remainder is hands-on as you and your group design, build and launch a model rocket. Sign up early; this class is limited to 15 students. Note: Students are required to bring a laptop to this class.

Michael Caston is the professor of the practice in innovation and product design and development in the Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department within the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Denver. He teaches courses in product development, entrepreneurship, consumer insights and market feasibility.