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Rapid
prototyping is the automatic construction of
physical objects using solid freeform fabrication.
The first techniques for rapid prototyping became
available in the late 1980s and were used to produce
models and prototype parts. Today, they are used
for a much wider range of applications and are even
used to manufacture production quality parts in
relatively small numbers. Some sculptors use the
technology to produce complex shapes for fine arts
exhibitions.
Because of the high cost of rapid prototyping equipment
and the high level of technical expertise required
to reliably produce perfect parts, the trend is
to use specialized third-party service bureaus.
We offer reduced time and cost for designers and
their clients with state-of-the-art technology.
Our machines
build wax models from computer files using thermoplastics
that are perfect components for investment casting.
See
some of the machinery here >>
Our systems reduce cost and time-to-market by translating
CAD Designs into hard
copy 3D models. These models are so accurate that
designers can go beyond concept modeling to produce
tooling grade patterns ready for casting or mold-making.
Jointly CAD/CAM allows the design of jewelry using
a computer (CAD) and creates an exact hard copy
model of a jewelry piece using a computer controlled
manufacturing device (CAM). Our technicians utilize
all file types compatible with any CAM device, which
allows us to quickly generate a precise wax model
ready for casting.
Stereolithography and these other hard model technologies
are the future of the jewelry industry. Leading
jewelers effectively use CAM "service bureaus"
that specialize in prototype output.
Rapid prototyping
takes virtual designs from computer aided design
(CAD) or animation modeling software, transforms
them into thin, virtual, horizontal cross-sections
and then creates each cross-section in physical
space, one after the next until the model is finished.
It is a WYSIWYG process where the virtual model
and the physical model correspond almost identically.
With additive fabrication, the machine reads in
data from a CAD drawing and lays down successive
layers of liquid, powder, or sheet material, and
in this way builds up the model from a series of
cross sections. These layers, which correspond to
the virtual cross section from the CAD model, are
joined together or fused automatically to create
the final shape. The primary advantage to additive
fabrication is its ability to create almost any
shape or geometric feature.
The standard data interface between CAD software
and the machines is the STL file format. An STL
file approximates the shape of a part or assembly
using triangular facets. Smaller facets produce
a higher quality surface.
Some solid freeform fabrication techniques use two
materials in the course of constructing parts. The
first material is the part material and the second
is the support material (to support overhanging
features during construction). The support material
is later removed by heat or dissolved away with
a solvent or water.
Technical advise:
Our technicians have been in the jewelry business
since 1983, operating in various branches of the
industry. We are some of the finest jewelry manufacturers
and jewelers in the industry.
With our fist-hand knowledge and experience throughout
the jewelry manufacturing process from start to
finish, we deliver quality. |
