Introduction to 3D Printing and Concept Modeling

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3D Printers are part of a new generation of concept modeling technology that has emerged in the last few years. Taking geometry data straight from traditional CAD modeling software, the machines are capable of producing solid, highly detailed, self supporting, functional prototypes.

If you are in the design business it allows concept development to occur far earlier in the design cycle, maximising efficiency and lowering production costs. If you are an architect it allows you to create scale models of your designs, however complicated, quickly and repeatably if needs require.

	scale architectural print

How 3D Printers Work

3D Printing, sometimes known as solid imaging or Multi-Jet Modeling (MJM), utilises the recent advances in plastic photo polymer technology to create a physical model layer by layer. Working with the same principles as the average desktop inkjet printer, the system sprays a thin layer of plastic, cures it with UV light and then surrounds it in a layer of support wax. This process is then repeated until the parts are completed. The outcome is a structure capable of intricate detail while still containing the strong, durable properties of its constituent plastic material.

Models produced on 3D systems InVision SR and HR 3-D printers are built with wax supports. To complete the model, the supports must be removed. This can either be done manually, cleaning the part with hot water; or automatically using a standard workshop oven.

The finisher oven provides a high duty cycle, precision-automated support removal capability to the InVision 3-D printer. Remove the parts from the InVision printer, separate the parts from the platform, and place the parts into the Finisher. The oven's precisely controlled thermal environment ensures that the support wax drips off the part, leaving the finished part. Drained support material may be disposed of as ordinary office waste in any receptacle after cooling to a solid.

3D print without and with wax support

How do 3D Printers fit into the world of Rapid Prototyping?

This class of machine is targeted at the design engineer for concept modeling and early design review. The equipment builds a physical model -think of it as a rough draft- that helps designers more quickly iterate and advance the design before going to more expensive development options.

How 3D Printing fits into the Design cycle

Which 3D Printing system fits my needs?

Size, cost and resolution varies between systems. The InVision LD is cheap, fast and clean to run. With a maximum model size of 160 x 210 x 135mm the LD is capable of printing medium size objects at a resolution of 0.15mm. The cost of an average part is as little as five GPB.

The InVision SR (standard resolution) is a step up in terms of model quality and size. The maximum build volume is 298 x 185 x 203mm - roughly the size of a shoe box. Resolution is higher, equivalent to over 300dpi. Of course this costs a little more to run, but is still affordable with smaller parts costing £10 - £15 and larger ones £75 - £100.

The InVision HR (high resolution) is as good as it gets within 3D printing. Unfortunately build volume is smaller than the SR at 127 x 178 x 50mm, put this is more than overcome by its resolution of over 600 dpi making it possible to create objects with almost microscopic detail. Building parts costs between £5 and £26 pounds.

3D Systems - InVision HR 3-D Printer

Extremely high resolution 3D printer. Small volumes at almost microscopic detail.

3D Systems - InVision SR 3-D Printer

High resolution 3D printing in durable plastic material. Exceptiona; surface detail and finish.

3D Systems - InVision LD 3-D Printer

Desktop 3D printer. Quick, clean and office friendly. Durable and complex output.

An overview of 3D Systems range of printers:

	InVision LD				InVision SR			InVision HR
	Less expensive				Higher Resolution			Very high resolution
	Desktop machine				Large build volume			Cost efficient
	No post processing of parts				Create complicated structures			Build highly repeatable objects
	Limited to simple shapes				Simple to operate			Simple to operate
	Lower resolution				More expensive*			Most Expensive within InVision range*
	Smaller build volume				Larger machine footprint			Smaller build volume

* price comparison within InVision range, which remains competitive to any other system on the market.

If you have any questions on 3D Printing then please call +44 (0)20 7613 5004 or email inition@inition.co.uk.

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