Ford Takes 3D Prototyping in a new Direction with Computer-Controlled Sheetmetal Former

We’re all familiar with rapid-prototyping as it pertains to 3D printers and CNC machines, but car makers have had tougher challenges over the years because they need pieces stamped or pounded out of sheet metal to build their prototypes, which often takes a lot of time and outsourced effort. Now, Ford is showing off a new computer-controlled system for doing this complex task quickly and inexpensively, potentially reducing the time from concept to production dramatically.