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Benefits of 3d Prototyping in the Design & Manufacturing Process

Author: Dan P. Author Ranking Blue | Posted: 08-06-2008 | Comments: 0 | Views: 34 | Rating:  (102) Article Popularity - Blue (?) Got a Question? Ask.
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3D printers allow companies to make crucial decisions and detect unforeseen design, fit and function flaws very early in the 3D prototyping design process. Design partners and prospective customers are able to understand complicated concepts faster and easier. Product suppliers and partners are able to participate earlier in the prototyping development process. Product focus groups see their conceptual models literally overnight. Sales are closed much earlier, in fact sales are made that likely would not have been made at all if it were not for the lightning-speed of rapid 3D prototyping.

Prototype Revisions

3D printing designers, viewing and touching design prototype revisions, dramatically reduces time-to-market. Companies that have switched from hand-made prototypes to 3D printing have seen drastic reductions in prototype cost and creation time from weeks to only hours!

Companies, who have previously outsourced 3D prototyping projects, are now using affordable in-house 3D printers. Affordability, speed and size are crucial factors for implementing in-house prototyping.

3D Prototype Functionality

Prototypes can be very strong as well as flexible. 3D models may be sanded, plated, or drilled, making them extremely versatile and useful in the creative design process.

3D Prototype Composite Build

One of the biggest advantages of 3D printing is the ability to print in many materials and colors. Previously, this was a laborious process, manually gluing together different materials and painting to represent differing composite materials. This is as monumental as compared to the moment in history when inkjet printers added full-color print. This 3D design improvement enhances communication, as it provides a superior understanding final product production before the commitment to mass production stage, a no-return enormous expense.

3D Prototyping Coloring & Labeling

Color 3D printing enables quick and easy mark up. Prototypes can easily be marked with color or patterns to communicate previous versions, signify parts/areas that require special treatment, like drilling or assembly. Labeling and coloring allow designers to be creative and impart instructions in the assembly and 3D production process. The design possibilities are unlimited.

3D Models easily Demonstrate Pros and Cons

3D printing provides a means for designers to engage others in the decision-making process, clearly demonstrating the pros and cons of alternative 3D model design solutions. Layman, clients, skeptical planning deciders and executives become enthusiastic contributors in the prototyping process. Presenting two or three variations, passing around the prototype models, encourages a lively and fruitful discussion, ultimately arriving at the final 3D prototype product much faster.

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About the Author:

Dan P. is a writer for Objet Geometries, Ltd., the innovation leader in 3D printing technology. Objet has been recognized with the 2008 RadTech USA Emerging Technologies award.

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