3D Printing
3D printing is also known as additive manufacturing, a method were a three dimensional object is created using a CAD design. The object is created adding material layer by layer to built the 3D part.
Dimensioal accuracy makes this method suitable for presentrations and assembly testing.
CNC Machining
Rapid prototyping by CNC machining creates CNC machined parts by removing material from a thermoplastic block. Offers part high precision and extremeley fast delivery.
A variety of most materials is available, such as PP, ABS, PA and materials with GF or even clear transparent materials such is PMMA, or PC. This makes it look alike the finshed product, especially when it is painted with the desired color. This is suitable for presentation to potential customers or Sale Departments.
The machined parts can be tested in real operating conditions such as tensile strength or applying pressure.
Functional Prototypes
In this stage the drawings are finalized in order to build the operational prototype which may also include a functional prototype PCB. Despite the detailed part and assembly design and the available applications that validate the design, is always critical to build a prototype. It allows the presentation of a real object, the aesthetic evaluation and dimensional confirmation. The product can also be tested under real operational conditions, such as exposure to UV light, humidity and high temperatures validating that design and material selection are the best for the application. It reduces the total product development cost, since revisions can be done with no cost before the tooling is started. The available prototyping processes and materials are the following:
Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technology and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Silicone moulds
CNC machining
A wide range of materials such as PMMA, ABS, POM, PC, NYLON and NYLON with GF
Colors at any PANTONE number
