Compared to the manual production of prototypes, prototyping using 3D printing offers numerous advantages. The time- and material-saving production method opens up new possibilities in terms of design and further development.
Prototypes for the successful iteration process
An important step in a development process is the production of a prototype in order to gain an impression of the look, feel and functionality of the respective component. Any weaknesses can also be identified in this way and corrected at an early stage. Time is an essential factor here. Rapid product development can determine the success or failure of a market launch.
Prototyping in additive manufacturing
Traditionally, the production of samples and prototypes is subject to a high planning and production effort, as manufacturing cannot always be automated and often requires subsequent adjustments. With the help of additive manufacturing, the planning and production phases for prototypes can be significantly shortened.
3D data for prototyping
The creation of 3D data already gives designers an early visual impression of the model to be produced. Powerful CAD programs can simulate the function of the component and provide information on whether the design is feasible. Adjustments and corrections can be made to a 3D CAD file much more quickly and easily than to the finished object.
3D scanning and reverse engineering of prototypes
Your prototype is already created? Using 3D scanning and reverse engineering, we create 3D data of your finished object for further machining and future production.
Compared to the classic production method, additive manufacturing of prototypes is a reasonable form of manufacturing that offers numerous advantages:
Additive manufacturing requires a minimum amount of material.
Corrections to the 3D file can be transferred directly to the component to be manufactured.
Prototypes are produced within a few days, saving valuable development time.
No expensive or complex tools are required.
Functional prototypes, samples and serial parts made of plastics
In additive manufacturing using selective laser sintering, mechanically resilient components are produced from technical plastics. Typical objects in this area are, for example, housing parts and devices, which can even have functional elements such as film hinges and latching hooks.
Lightweight structures by selective laser melting
Components for industry have to meet ever more diverse requirements while becoming increasingly smaller and lighter wherever possible. This results in geometrically complex structures that feature honeycombs, struts and related structural support geometries. In addition, the complexity of a component increases due to the integration of additional functions, such as cooling channels close to the contour or a stress-optimized, organic design. Additive manufacturing by means of selective laser melting allows these components to be made from innovative lightweight metals, while at the same time offering very good mechanical properties.
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