Appliance Design - October 2007 - (Page 43)

PROTOTYPING This part was created as a test to show off the build size (25 x 29 x 21 in.) of Tangible Express’ Viper Pro. are made to be looked at and to undergo only simple testing, a concept-modeling machine — generically called 3D printers — might be a good choice. These are relatively less expensive devices than conventional RP machines. The modelers are also easy-to-use and their capabilities are improving. This choice is especially important if the designer needs a simple prototype fast; these machines can typically make a part in a few hours. But, size might be an issue because these machines can generally only handle small sized parts. While build size differs between the available machines, they are typically in the 8-in. range. Even at this early stage, durability, accuracy and resolution of parts produced on these machines may not be high enough for the purpose. When prototypes require more robustness and utility, then a more sophisticated prototyping system might be the answer. Options include stereolithography apparatus (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS) or a fused-deposition modeling (FDM) machines that use a process patented by Stratasys of Eden Prairie, Minn. These technologies are generally slower then a 3D printer, depending on the part’s size, but will typically allow for a wider variety of material choices, can produce a bigger and more accurate piece and have better detail. More functional testing is also possible. However, these machines are more expensive, and if the prototype part volume is low it might not be cost effective to bring a high-end prototyping system in-house. Another point to consider. At costs ranging up to a half a million dollars, how many machines can be realistically purchased? Service bureau executives warn that if an OEM has a limited number of machines in house, a bottleneck in the design cycle may occur and some parts may still need to be outsourced. Another issue to examine is that, by purchasing a particular RP method, the user may be locked into using a single technology that may not be optimal for all the company’s prototyping applications. Tom Mueller, a partner at the Vernon Hills, Ill.-based service bureau, Express Pattern, says that bringing higher end technology in-house, especially when producing functional parts would be a challenge for manufacturers. “Some (OEM) companies choose to do that, but I think www.applianceDESIGN.com Be a Part Owner If a company is thinking about owning an SLA, SLS or FDM machine, but does not have the capital, another option may be available. One service bureau will now allow a company to buy a portion of a rapid prototyping (RP) machine. Tangible Express, Springville, Utah, now offers a fractional ownership program that allows a company to “own” a machine much like someone can own a timeshare at a vacation resort. The owner buys time on a machine and is guaranteed access to it whenever the company needs to create parts. They continue to have access to the machine until the amount of time purchased is used up. The machines reside at Tangible Express’ Utah facility, and are operated and maintained by experienced personnel, says Ben Stier, the company’s director of marketing. The program allows the owner access to the different technologies offered by Tangible Express. If a company becomes a fractional owner of one type of RP machine, but needs the services of another type of RP machine, they can have access to that technology. “This allows the owners to stay ahead of the curve,” says Stier. “As new technologies become available, we will upgrade our equipment.” < For more information, enter: Tangible Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .308 Or email: john@tangibleexpress.com A Tangible Express technician showing off the rubber-like qualities of 3D Systems SLS DuraForm Flex material. Three of the 4 Sinterstation HiQ SLS systems housed at Tangible Express. Five of the seven dual vat SLA Viper Pro Systems housed at Tangible Express. applianceDESIGN October 2007 43 http://www.appliancedesign.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Appliance Design - October 2007

Contents Editorial Shipments/Forecasts News Watch Applying Powder Coatings to Plastic Parts is No Longer a Pipe Dream New Technology Platform Provides the Ability for a single IC to Control Two- Motors in a Single Appliance, Simplifying Motor Control Design Advanced Motor-Control Techniques have Become More Accessible to a Wider Array of Appliances, Helping to Improve Efficiency and Reduce Noise Adding USB Host Capability to Appliances Permits In-Field Programming and Acquisition of Test Data ZigBee Modules Make it Easier to Design Wireless Connectivity into Applications New Concepts such as Rapid Tooling and Rapid Injection Molding Provide Stepping Stones Between Prototyping and Full Scale Production A Number of Factors and New Developments Affect the Decision on Whether to Build Prototypes In-House or Outsource to a Service Bureau DesignMart Advertiser’s Index Association Report: CEA

Appliance Design - October 2007

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