3D
Printers are less costly variations of RP technology that
are positioned as a design tool to create inexpensive models
early in the design process. The ability to produce quick,
inexpensive ABS models allows the designer to model multiple
concepts. Physical models produced on a Dimension 3D Printer
allow everyone on the design team to review the concepts. In
turn, the company gets better feedback, resulting in a
better product. 3D printing allows companies to achieve real
time collaboration on a global scale.
Unlike
other 3D Printers, Dimension allows you to test form, fit
and function - and as many design iterations you like -
right from your desktop.
Dimension 3D Printers generate durable models in ABS
plastic. ABS is the most commonly used plastic in
manufacturing today. Cell phones, television sets, and the
majority of car interiors are made of ABS or ABS blends. ABS
allows you to build durable and functional prototypes that
can withstand rigorous testing and won't warp, shrink or
absorb moisture. ABS models can be drilled, tapped, sanded
and painted. ABS is the material of choice by leading
manufacturers and is a major reason why Dimension is the
fastest selling, office-friendly machine of it's kind.
Product Cost
Reduction
Everyone
knows that there are many costs involved in
developing a new product. Dimension 3D Printers
allow you to reduce those costs and many Dimension
customers have found that a Dimension 3D Printer
paid for itself in its first project.
3D printing with Dimension quickly enables better
communication and collaboration between everyone
involved in the process. Poor communication,
extensive changes and missed deadlines increase
costs exponentially throughout each step of the
design and development. A Wohlers Industry
Report notes that a modest engineering change
costing $100 in the Proof of Concept phase could
escalate to a staggering $1,000,000 when the product
is in the field.
Product
Mockups
With
a Dimension 3D Printer, you can create mockups of
your product within hours. Many Dimension users have
saved a lot of time and money by creating product
mockups. Product mockups allow you to see your
product before ever going into production. They
allow you to catch design flaws and make the
appropriate adjustments early and often throughout
the design process. In several instances, Dimension
3D Printers paid for themselves right away, by
catching a design flaw early in the design process.
Models made on a Dimension 3D Printer can be:
• Sanded
• Painted
• Chrome Plated
• Tapped
• Drilled
Product
Confidentiality
New
products are the lifeblood for any company.
Companies spend millions on security. A Dimension 3D
Printer ensures that the designs you are considering
remain inside your company. Any time you send data
outside to a service provider, you increase the
possibility of a security leak. Installing a
Dimension 3D Printer allows you to keep your design
secure.
Vacuum
Forming
ABS
models produced on a Dimension 3D Printer are
excellent masters for the vacuum forming process.
Dimension models are used extensively in vacuum
forming applications in the automotive industry for
trim pieces and a variety of interior components.
Consumer product companies use Dimension models for
items ranging from plastic glasses to food
containers. Vacuum forming is used in a variety of
applications in the aerospace and medical
industries. Vacuum forming is widely used in
packaging techniques known as blister pack.
Marketing
Tools
Successful
product design requires review and input from many
sources. Dimension 3D models have proven time and
time again to be great marketing tools. ABS models
can be sanded, painted, and chrome plated. Take a
look at the front-end loader to the left. This model
was printed in multiple pieces using two colors.
Imagine showing this quality model to a new
prospect. You are able to place a real-life product
into someone's hands in a day. Now that's
impressive!