3D printers

[franzh]

Solidworks is not my ususal haunt (automotive) but we have recently looked into doing 3D modeling and am interested in first hand input on things to look for and to avoid. This is low volume, mostly for training purposes.

One of our staff stumbled across a do it your self 3D printer and that seems fascinating.

Opinions?

Franz

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[JMirisola]

Opinions on what? 3D modeling? What do you mean by training? Training someone to do what?

As for 3D modeling software, they all have their pros and cons, much of which is subject to the opinion provider's...opinion.

A DIY 3D printer? Got a link?

Jeff Mirisola, CSWP
Design Manager/Senior Designer
M9 Defense
My Blog

 

[franzh]

I training in the automotive industry. Some of my training requires destructive modification to OEM vehicle parts which can get expensive. My director came up with the idea of 3D modeling and use the plastic components to do the training on. By taking a CAD of just the component we test, we arent required to destroy a $300 item, only a $15.00 piece.

Plus, he has additional plans, he wants to model other components we instruct on, like hydraulic valves, pressure regulators, etc.

Here is one link, Google showed a couple of pages of DIY 3D projects:

http://hacknmod.com/hack/diy-makerbot-style-3d-printer-for-250/

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[rollupswx]

The DIY machines will not give you anything usefull.
Models from the real 3D printers will cost you about the same or more than real mass-produced parts. (probably much more if you consider the modeling costs, especially with no experience and I would guess complex models).

 

[ScottHeiden]

Take a look at using someone like Shapeways to print your parts:

http://www.shapeways.com/materials/

They're located in the Netherlands but I've had parts in White, Strong & Flexible material arrive in seven days after ordering them.

Shapeways is currently opening an office in New York city; hopefully this will result in even lower prices for clients in North America.