Rapid Prototyping with 3D printing
The need for rapid prototyping is ever increasing in today’s fast-paced world. Utilizing 3D printer technology, a complete prototype can be built in as little as a few hours.
3D printed models are extremely versatile. Just look at all the possibilities.
Design and Assembly testing
Form, Fit, and Function are very important in product design. Often a prototype is needed for verifying the design concept. Prototypes made on 3D printers help engineers validate their designs, reducing cost by improving design before reaching manufacturing.
Molds for RTV materials
Room Temperature Vulcanization (RTV) is when a rubber, silicone, or other polymer can cure or harden at room temperature. Molds can be made from the printed models. Even the mold itself can be built using 3D printers. These molds take advantage of RTV materials. RTV molds can be very useful when prototyping a part which utilizes a flexible material. RTV molds are also great for low quantity production.
Production
Tooling and molds can be expensive, especially when you want to make only a handful of parts. Low quantity or small volume production runs can be completed using rapid prototyping and 3D printing techniques.
When you need parts but can’t wait for the tooling or molds to be completed, rapid prototyping can help. Since 3D printing does not require hours of setup and CNC machined tooling, parts can be made quickly without the excessive lead time.
Marketing
Clients, shareholders, and potential clients enjoy seeing and handling new products. 3D printed models are great for showing others your product. Small scale models are especially great when your product is too big to carry with you. Want to show off the internal workings of your assembly? Parts with cut-aways are easily constructed on 3D printers without the hassle of actually cutting any parts while still providing a functional model.
Architectural Models
The use of Architectural Models are an important part of displaying and communicating an architectural design to clients. Detailed models help to visualize the finished product which can be useful for presentations and demonstrations. From your CAD model a scaled model can easily be made on a 3D printer. Models can even be made to be disassembled showing the layout and design of the interior. Because the 3D printed model can be painted and finished you can make your model really stand out so the observer takes in the intricacies of your design.
Post Processing and Hardware
How a model is used and presented is very important. Post Processing and finishing techniques can make your 3D printed model stand out. Models can be sanded, glued, machined, metal coated, polished, and painted.
For more applications and durability, hardware such as pins, bushings, and threaded inserts can be installed on 3D printed parts making them very versatile.