A rapid prototyping apparatus includes a construction platform, a movable platform, a printing module, a cleaning and maintenance module, a construction material spreading element, a heater and a heat shield. A construction chamber is formed in the construction platform. The movable platform and the construction platform are movable relative to each other. The printing module is installed on the movable platform, and includes at least one printhead unit. The cleaning and maintenance module is installed on the movable platform. The construction material spreading element is installed on the movable platform for spreading a ceramic construction material to the construction chamber. After the ceramic construction material is spread in the construction chamber, the construction material is heated by the heater. After the printhead unit performs a printing operation, the printhead unit is cleaned and maintained by the cleaning and maintenance module.