Rapid prototyping is a series of techniques that allows us to create working physical models of your product in a very short time. Prototyping allows you test important design assumptions like fit, aesthetics and ergonomics before investing in tooling.
Being able to touch, examine and evaluate a real working version of your component has massive advantages over 3D computer images alone.
- Quickly evaluate multiple design permutations
- Validate design functionality
- Reduce chances of design flaws and get a better end product
- Use a physical product to test sales markets and potential investors
Low cost and fast turnaround
Using 3D printing, making a prototype or multiple variations of a prototype is fast and cost-effective. Making a single prototype takes just a few hours and can be produced using existing 3D computer designs. Print multiple variations and compare them in real world scenarios for fit and function.
Get the final design right
Tooling is an expensive part of the manufacturing process. Allowing even a minor design flaw to slip through to the final tool can lead to expensive re-tooling, wasted material and lost production time. Quick, inexpensive prototyping can prevent these losses from happening.
3D Printing
Whilst it is not a new technology (it has been around since the 1980s), the previously high cost meant it was the reserve of aerospace and other high engineering industries. Recent developments have reduced the cost of 3D printing; making it a viable option for prototyping new components for most companies.
3D Printing is now an excellent choice for prototyping components large and small before final designs are submitted to tooling. 3D printers can create working, 1:1 scale versions of your design in just a few hours and can use your existing CAD designs.
Fused Deposition Modelling
Our 3D printing process uses a recently developed technique known as Fused Deposition Modelling. A computer controlled nozzle deposits layers of material on top of each other to build a real 3D product. Various materials can be used in the process including ABS, a popular material for injection moulded products.
Contact us today to find out how easy and cost-effective it is to create a prototype of your design. Whether you've got a final CAD design or if you need some help getting it finished we can help.