The rise of 3D printing and 3D prototyping has made a lasting effect on the world of manufacturing and production in general. This is regardless of the industry you might find yourself in.

Many industries like medicine and aerospace have turned to 3D prototyping for its precise yet, affordable use of 3D printing.

The world today has seen a big rise in 3D printed products that are not just prototypes but finished products. This shows that the world has accepted 3D designs and technology.

As the world continues to evolve and accept 3D tech, the productions have broadened and gotten better and better.

These days it seems like the designs of 3D printing keep multiplying and getting more complex. It is almost like the possibilities are endless.

While all these are going on and the world of tech and engineering are swarming to feed into this technology, here are few things that everyone should keep in mind.

Tips Worth Considering When starting 3D Prototyping

1. Consider the End Product

In whatever 3D prototyping capacity that you find yourself in, you need to always remember that the main focus of the entire project is the end product.

As the project progresses there are bound to be distractions, and some things that come up that can throw you off balance, you have to stay focus on the goal.

Makers also need to remember that the product application is also of high importance. So if you notice that there is a need to improve the quality of the present prototype, do it.

If it will require a total upgrade to make the prototype work, then that is what must happen. Makers should be able to turn the technology to fit the purpose of the project.

2. Design Guidelines

Talking about software in 3D printing, many file formats make it what it is today. A common format in 3D printing is. STL.

Even though this a very popular format with which many individuals have used at one time or the other, there are many other formats.

These formats work according to the machine and the purpose of the print. So it can be said that the format has a big impact on the end product.

When designs are printed with 3D printers, there is a level of confidence that it comes with. The 3D prototype processes work with a free-form production system.

The free-form production system that 3D printing gives allows for the creation of more complicated parts that are made.

These designs have less tolerance control, they are within a thousandth of an inch. Keep in mind that files that have multiple shells are probably going to do build according to specification.

When you are carrying out any printing or making any prototype, please remember to note where or indicate where the unit o measurement is. This can easily be done with a file that has multiple shells.

Conclusion

This tool of 3D printing in the hands of many has made the jobs of some people and thought life’s lessons.

The role of the designers and engineers was is to make use of it, come together and decide what changes to make and where it should be.

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Lucas Lawless is an engineering customer and has been involved in industrial manufacturing for 8 years. He is a graduate of Columbia University with a deep knowledge base and innovative research. He is well versed in CNC rapid prototyping tools and engineering equipment.