Entrepreneurs Aaron Latzke and David Delcourt of Siva Cycle wanted to create a production-like prototype for their Kickstarter project, The Siva Cycle Atom, which is a bicycle generator and rechargeable battery pack that can power nearly any electronic or mobile device through a USB port. The team needed to test mechanical function and dimensional accuracy before launching their 30-day campaign. Latzke and Delcourt specified that the prototype be high in resolution and surface quality so it could also be used in marketing collateral for fund raising promotional efforts.

The Siva Cycle Atom is a low profile, compact generator that easily attaches to any bicycle hub. It weighs 300 grams. All components including a 1300 mAh battery pack fit inside an enclosure that is 7.5 in. tall by 3.0 in. wide by 1.2 in. deep. While the bicycle is in motion, electricity is generated and stored in the battery pack. The electricity is then available through a 5V USB connection up to 500 mA.

Fathom’s range of additive manufacturing services provided Latzke and Delcourt with a prototyped part that met all requirements and exceeded expectations. It was dimensionally accurate, competitively priced, and hand delivered within two business days.

Fathom engineers used a Polyjet process from a Connex 3D printer, from Stratasys Ltd. The polyjet technology achieves smooth surfaces, thin walls, and complex geometries. It prints in 16-micron layers with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. In addition, the printer can deliver a selection of materials with properties that range from rubber to rigid and transparent to opaque. An added benefit is that this printer will print multiple parts in multiple materials in a single build cycle.

The quick turnaround and specialized services helped Latzke and Delcourt meet their three month design cycle. The KickStarter campaign raised more than $40,000 above goal.

FATHOM
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