Rapid Prototyping using the 3D Printer – Part 2

For this part, we will focus on the manufacturing sequence of the rapid prototyping using the 3D printer.

A good example of a rapid prototyping machine is the Z310 3D printer from Z-Corporation. This uses data from computer software called ZPRINT to produce physical models. Machines such as 3D printers are essential for modern high - tech industry, in order that new ideas and concepts can be tested and evaluated before expensive manufacturing begins. Prototype modelling has been shown to reduce the time required to design and manufacture a new product. The basic design and manufacturing sequence for a prototype mobile phone is shown below.

Before manufacturing the 3D model powder is added to the powder feed box and a water based binder/resin is poured into the resin reservoir. These are the essential ingredients to manufacture the model.

The CAD file is opened in ZPRINT software. The software then controls the printer building the model one layer at a time, gluing together the cross sections of the model being built.

A typical hand held model can be manufactured in less than an hour, at the fraction of the cost of manufacturing it by hand.