# Computer-Aided Design and Additive Manufacturing for Automotive Prototypes: A Review
## 3 Results and Discussions
### Empirical Investigations and Original Contributions  
Our study conducted several empirical investigations into the application of CAD and AM in the prototyping of automotive components. These investigations included case studies where we applied these technologies to design and produce functional prototypes. For example, we utilized CAD and AM to create a prototype for an automotive bracket, which demonstrated a 30% reduction in production time and a 20% increase in design flexibility compared to traditional methods. These results showcase the practical benefits and efficiencies gained using CAD and AM in automotive prototyping. Furthermore, we present a detailed analysis of the surface finish and dimensional accuracy of parts produced \begin{table}
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**Framework Element** & **Contributions** \\ \hline Generative Design and Topology Optimization & Shift toward efficient design procedures, fostering innovation in AM [32]. \\ \hline Optimization of Material Properties and Structural Integrity & Emphasis on integrating material science and engineering principles into CAD/AM for enhanced performance and reliability [24]. \\ \hline Tailoring Applications to Specific Sectors & Customized strategies to meet industrial needs, enhancing acceptance and flexibility of CAD and AM applications [47]. \\ \hline Overcoming Barriers to Adoption & Tactics to address obstacles such as cost, standardization, and user-technology interfaces, enhancing adoption [34; 46; 49]. \\ \hline Customer-Centric Design and User Experience & Development of user-friendly CAD/AM tools responsive to customer inputs, improving design and manufacturing processes [16; 46; 47; 49]. \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
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Table 2: Main concepts of the five-element framework. using AM. Our findings indicate that AM can achieve tolerances within 0.1 mm, which are suitable for most automotive applications. These empirical results provide concrete evidence of the capabilities and advantages of using AM technologies in this context. Focusing on advancing technologies that cater to user needs will become essential in the coming years. These challenges can be overcome by utilizing AM technology, which implements cost strategies and creates user interfaces. Combining these technologies to evaluate the long-term effects of vehicle technology and promoting CAD and AM in prototype development is considered. This approach involves incorporating cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, in CAD and AM, which have the potential to transform prototyping by providing efficiency, precision, and innovative design and manufacturing capabilities. Overcoming these challenges could revolutionize prototype manufacturing in CAD and AM to support effective production methods. Future research should focus on creating integrated CAD and manufacturing technologies tailored for large-scale automobile production. This approach aims to enhance design flexibility, improve material and process efficiency, and incorporate AI advancements to optimize CAD and AM processes. Additionally, it is essential to address industry hurdles, particularly those related to implementing these technologies across automotive scenarios and advancing sustainable manufacturing practices. The main goal is to streamline the prototyping process, enhance the operational effectiveness, and reduce the environmental impact of the automotive industry. In the realm of research, AM should expand its reach beyond the automotive sector by focusing on sustainability and integrating digital technologies, such as AI into CAD and AM processes. This involves evaluating the scalability of CAD and AM for large-scale production, developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly AM methods, and exploring the economic effects of incorporating this technology into regional industries.