Make Parts Fast

Using an Easter Egg to play with architectural concepts of structure, light, and shadow

Fourfoursixsix, an acclaimed international architecture practice; EOS, a leading manufacturer of laser-sintering systems; and Ogle Models, makers of exquisite, cutting-edge models; are delighted to support the world’s biggest egg hunt this Easter. These companies have worked together to create a laser-sintered egg that is intricate in structure, yet contemporary and sculptural. The... Read More

Bigger and Better

We’ve posted tips in the past regarding maximum part size, but since our moldable dimensions have continued to increase, we thought it was time for an update. Some of the figures that follow are simple and absolute; others may vary based on multiple factors. If your design seems to be approaching the limits, the best way to determine whether Proto Labs can mold it is to submit... Read More

Using 3D printing to create “Velcro”

Here is a fascinating story from an i.Materialise blog on a graduate student’s use of 3D printing to create panels that adhere, connect, and interconnect is a manner similar to Velcro.  Read More

If you draw it, will it “print”?

The processes involved in Additive manufacturing (AM), including 3D printing, stereolithography, polyjet, and fused filament fabrication, all promise design freedom. This technology has not replaced traditional manufacturing yet. So, many parts will still need the usual manufacturing processes to make in quantity. Understanding the nuances and needs of each type of AM machine will... Read More

CNC machining speeds the development of custom gearwheels

Michal Zalewski is a multitalented guy – a successful software engineer by day, and robotics hobbyist in the evening and on weekends. He became serious about robotics almost six years ago, and quickly realized that the most significant limitation is the need to rely on expensive pre-made or made-to-order structural components to move assemblies, custom gearwheels, and so forth.... Read More

3D scanner software – a step closer to automatically recovering design intent

The U.S. Air Force and DRS Technologies, a supplier of defense electronic systems, commissioned the University of Oklahoma to study developments in scanners in reverse engineering projects. The authors examined several 3D scanning software packages. Here are excerpts from their report. By Kuang-Hua Chang and Chienchih Chen Univeristy of Oklahoma The U.S. Air Force and DRS Technologies,... Read More

Laser scanners take accurate measurements fast

The goal in most design projects—find a way to develop the most accurate products, quickly and easily (or easily enough) and run with it. The need for speed, however, often conflicts with the need to take accurate measurements along the way—an integral but often time-consuming part of the process. These days, a growing number of engineers use laser scanners to expedite measurements,... Read More

Is 3D Systems move a signal of 3D printing consolidation, already?

By now you know that two major players in the 3D printing market have shaken things up a bit. 3D Systems has added Z Corporation to its list of acquisitions, which now number 22 that the company has made in the past couple of years. Do I say “another one bites the dust?” Or is this good news for the industry? I have mixed feelings. At first glance, it’s a good move for 3D... Read More

Geomagic Studio 2012 transforms scans of physical objects into precise 3D models

Geomagic announces the release of Geomagic Studio 2012, Geomagic Wrap 2012, Geomagic Qualify 2012, Geomagic Qualify Probe and Geomagic Wrap OEM Edition. This suite of software delivers the latest technical advances in 3D scan and probe data transformation, precise polygonal imaging and 3D inspection and metrology. The user-friendly products include new and optimized commands for... Read More

Artec and Rapidform join forces to provide 3D scanning

Artec Group, Inc. and INUS Technology, Inc., recently signed a common sales agreement combining Artec’s affordable, easy-to-use, handheld 3D scanners with INUS’ industry leading scanning software Rapidform. This agreement enables the two companies to offer a complete and extensive reverse engineering system for the 3D industry. INUS Technology, Inc. is a leader in the 3D scanning... Read More