Abstract: In order to offer better support for the rapid product development of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) , a networked service system of rapid prototyping and manufacturing is researched and developed. A novel framework of networked service system is presented. Its workflow and detailed functional modules are discussed. The key technologies of implementing the system are described in detail. The service system that includes the technology information platform, E-commerce platform, and manufacturing service platform provides a collaborative production environment for users and service bureaus and enables the share of manufacturing resource. A number of case studies have shown that the system promises a high potential to speed up the product development of SMEs. As a result, the implementation of such a system will represent a fundamental shift of enterprise strategy and manufacturing paradigms in organization.

Key words: Networked manufacturing, Rapid product development, Rapid prototyping & manufacturing, Service system