Omnica's relaxed Friday dress code and high-tech computer models have revolutionized the way designers and clients communicate. But we have another aid to foster friendly understanding, and it's not by sporting flowered shirts every day.

                FIVE rapid prototyping machines used for different purposes

We have FIVE (5) rapid prototyping alternatives, a Stratasys™ Dimension 1200ES,  Stratasys™ Dimension Elite,  SolidScape™ ModelMaker II , Objet Alaris 30, and an Objet EDEN 330. The Dimension machines are FDM devices, the Alaris and EDEN machines are PolyJet™ (polymer-jet 3D) technology, and the SolidScape machine is a 3D wax printer, each with different quality, envelope size and material choice attributes. The “Stratasys desktop” systems are about the size of a refrigerator, and are located in the modelmaking area (next to the laser cutter). They are moderate resolution machines (0.010" to 0.007" layer thickness build) that can be used to create models relatively quickly. The Modelmaker II is about a third the size of it's roommates and is a high resolution (0.0005" layer thickness build) 3D wax printer used to create high-resolution wax models for investment casting. Stratasys rapid prototyping machine can build ABS (a tough plastic) models from 3D CAD files. We will discuss the workings and merits of the PolyJet machines in a future article.

                     FDM stands for "fused deposition modeling”.

The FDM machines have a computer-guided print head which deposits thin filaments of plastic with properties similar to ABS, layered on top of each other. The hot strands are applied one layer at a time, and they fuse together. The resultant models are accurate and robust enough to simulate end-product performance. We can build models from other materials, too. the 3D wax printer uses a technology similar to the one used in inkjet printers, that is by layering wax microdots (25M per square inch) on top of each other. An example is the pea-sized wax "orbs" we modeled for a customer that we later investment cast in bronze. These machines differ from stereolithography machines that we sometimes employ (through service bureaus) for certain projects.  

                  There is definitely some "art" involved.  
 
A designer can start a build from the top, side or bottom of the part to be “printed”. The fastest builds are usually those which have the smallest height, or “Z-axis”. However, after creating a number of sample parts we soon realized that faster was not always better. Resolution, and the way the machine builds parts must be considered. If the model features swooping curves or long non-parallel planes we may have to make choices between strength, cosmetics and speed - it depends on the project requirements. 

      All of the 3-D printers offer real speed and cost benefits to our customers.

In a matter of hours we can make moderately accurate and robust models suitable for fit, form, and function. The printer is a low cost alternative compared to machined or cast urethane models. For designers and those persons less technically oriented, models are an ideal way to visualize design concepts.

Our clients won't need a vivid imagination now that we can show them a picture in the morning, and a model later that afternoon.

To learn more about our capabilities, and what we can do for you, visit www.omnica.com