When you start creating a design for the rapid prototyping service, there are multiple things that you would need to consider. There are multiple aspects to go into 3D printing so as to select the right materials and machines that are required to create the print. Here we would discuss the top ten things of rapid prototyping that are needed to be considered.
1.STL format files are basically used by rapid prototyping. This is important to build set up and parts of production. The native CAD can get easily converted to STL format, but this is true when the work is done outside the given software. In many occasions, there arise issues where the product is built with missing features or with overall failures. Thus sending CAD in STL format usually reduces the chances of error.
2.Talking about a good STL file, it should have a single shell with no unshared edges. When there are multiple shells with many unshared edges, that signals surfaces are overlapping with one another. If these are left inside the file, then the prototype would never get built as intended and would cause missing features.
3.Make sure that you indicate the original unit of measurement with which the file was designed. This would not only reduce the chances of error but would also save a lot of your time.
4.Designing each model in the rapid prototyping process, you would come with different nuances and design limitations. These are the material characteristics that the designers need to consider when they start to design the prototype. They would also need to include scope for variances and iterations that might get implemented in the model.
5.Pricing is one of the main factors that are considered while prototyping but the primary concern of the company at this time should be enhancing the quality of the product. With the improved functionality, clients can get the products that they have always desired for. Looking into lesser price, you might end up designing a prototype that is not functional at all.
6.You would need to consider certain aspects when you design a product. The aspects include fit, form, finish and functionality. Looking into this, the project manager would be able to tell you what details should be incorporated in the end product. The manager would look in to the size, the work, the finish of the product along with whether the product actually functions or not. Looking into this they would be able to optimize the post processes accordingly.
7.There is a minimum feature size for all the process and material. Understanding the limitations would help in selecting the best option along with modifying the CAD designs as per the result required.
8.Rapid prototyping is a free form production system and hence they have lesser control of tolerance than the traditional methods of manufacturing like CNC machining. The processes are quite accurate in nature but in case of some designs there is a need to account for the slightest variation of the dimensions.
9.While choosing the right technique and material, the prototype should be kept right in front of your eyes. It happens many times that looking at the design, it may seem that the product is accurate to be built by certain material which is not the case when it comes to the prototype.
10.Now rapid prototype should be done rapidly, but without compromising on the designs or creating any unnecessary errors. It is always advised to take some time for the final review to detect potential problems. Doing so is very important as it would help in creating a quality product, failing to which would be a costly mistake.
