RapidFit
A specialized provider of modular, 3D-printed tooling and high-precision inspection fixtures designed to optimize quality control and assembly for the automotive industry.
- CEO / Founder
- Bart Wilberts
- Team Size
- 11-50
- Stage
- Active
- Total Funding
- $3.98M
- Key Investors
- PMV (Flemish Investment Company), RapidFit Management Team
Technology & Products
Key Products
Modular Cubing Systems (Smart Cube for full vehicle body inspection), Custom Inspection Fixtures and Gauges, RapidLock (Patented quick-release system for modularity), Hybrid Manufacturing Services (Combining 3D printing with 5-axis CNC milling), CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) Holding Fixtures
Technological Advantage
Integrates large-format 5-axis CNC milling with additive manufacturing to achieve micron-level precision on lightweight, complex geometries that traditional manufacturing cannot produce efficiently.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Reduces tooling weight by up to 90% and lead times to 8–12 weeks by replacing traditional heavy steel fixtures with modular, 3D-printed, and carbon-fiber-reinforced solutions that are easily reconfigurable.
How They Differentiate
RapidFit differentiates through the use of additive manufacturing (3D printing) and carbon-fiber reinforcement to create custom, modular fixtures that are up to 90% lighter than traditional steel alternatives. Their patented RapidLock quick-release system allows for micron-level precision and repeatability while reducing lead times to 8–12 weeks.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Volvo and Aston Martin, and Tier 1 automotive suppliers and automation partners like Comau.
Industry Verticals
Automotive, Industrial Manufacturing, Aerospace (Secondary/Potential), Additive Manufacturing Services
Competitors
Witte Barskamp (Alufix), Zeiss (GOM Metrology), Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Transitioned from a Materialise business unit to an independent entity; maintains a global sales network and a dedicated US manufacturing footprint (Advanced Machining Ltd).
Major Milestones
Launched by Materialise in 2006 as a 3D-printed solution for automotive fixtures., Secured investment from PMV (Flemish Investment Company) in August 2013 to fuel international expansion., Acquired Advanced Machining Ltd in Michigan, USA, in October 2013 to establish a local manufacturing presence., Announced a management-led buyout (MBO) from Materialise in October 2024 to operate as an independent company.
Notable Customers
Volvo Car Gent, Aston Martin, Bentley, Comau