A 3D printing method called laser sintering is helping to change the face of unmanned-air-vehicle (UAV) design. Engineers at the University of Southampton in the U. K. designed an entire UAV structure, including wings, control surfaces, and access hatches
Rapid turnaround is increasingly important for producing low-volume parts and new concepts. Here’s how prototyping techniques are cutting time to market today.
The most recent version of the Crittercam employs a selective laser sintered part to both brace and center a controller board and to serve as a support for mounting the video camera.
The ZPrinter 150 (monochrome, $14,900) and ZPrinter 250 (multicolor, $24,900) have a small physical footprint suitable for classrooms, departments, or small businesses.
Kroll went to online facilities from Proto Labs, Maple Plain, Minn., where he got an automated quote and ordered a set of three machined plastic prototype parts.
Sometimes stereolithography won’t cut it for making prototypes. This was the situation for a handheld electronic communication device used by SWAT teams.
A new rapid prototyping machine additively builds parts that appear as if they have been injection molded and let users verify designs for form, fit, and function.
