5 Methods to Use 3D Printing Services to Create a New Prototype Design

3D printing has changed the design and manufacturing industry to a great extent. It is allowing designers and manufacturers to create product prototypes in an affordable manner. Most importantly, there is a greater level of flexibility that the industry hasn’t seen before. 3D printing design technologies and processes have evolved over the years. Some are suited for consumer applications, and some are best for industrial environments. Nevertheless, not all types are ideal for new prototype design. If you are in the design and manufacturing industry, you know how important it is to create prototypes and test out a wide range of solutions in a shorter time period.

How to make a 3D design for printing? What methods to use? We know that you have a lot of questions. This guide focuses on providing top 3D printing design tips
for creating a new prototype design.

The Rise of 3D Printing

3D printing was first introduced in the 1980s. A Japanese doctor named Hideo Kodama developed a rapid prototyping system in 1981. He came up with a layer-by-layer approach for manufacturing. Kodama used photosensitive resin that was polymerized by ultraviolet light. While he failed to file the patent, he is often credited as the inventor of this manufacturing system.

Ever since then, 3D printing has exploded onto the manufacturing scene. New methods have been developed, new technologies are under development, and the use cases have been expanded. In the 2010s, new additive manufacturing techniques and 3D printing and design processes were introduced. The last decade was the era of affordable 3D printers, which allowed for an unparalleled level of creativity and usage. Today, even a child can purchase a 3D printer for projects and fun activities.

The popularity of 3D printing and design has expanded across industries. Today, it is not just limited to design and manufacturing. The following are the industries that are currently benefiting from this technology:

• Aviation
• Firearms
• Furniture
• Art
• Automotive
• Pharmaceuticals
• Medical Science
• Food
• Education
• Construction
• Architecture

What to Consider When Looking at 3D Printing for Prototype Creation?

There are several factors that one needs to consider when looking at 3D printing for prototype creation. It is not just about buying a 3D printer and making a prototype. As said, there are several factors. They include:

Printer Cost and Type

Please note that industry-grade 3D printers are not cheap. Depending on your needs and budget, you need to buy a 3D printer. Moreover, there are factors like available print materials, maximum build volumes, method of 3D printing, and size that you should consider before purchasing.

CAD File Formats

The second most important thing to do is check what file formats the printer can support. As you will be working with a product design company, they will develop a 3D file of the prototype so that the printer can deduce the design. So, the printer you choose should support all the major CAD file formats. Else, you need to instruct the product design company to develop the 3D file in a specific format that your 3D printer accepts. The most used file formats are 3D manufacturing format, additive manufacturing format, object files, and stereolithography.

Production Materials

Lastly, you need to consider the materials that you can use for making 3D printing designs. Keep in mind the prime material(s) that you use for producing prototypes. Determine whether the 3D printer you chose supports those material types. Plastics, gypsum, ceramic, gold/silver/precious metals, stainless steel, resin, and nylon are some common production materials.

How to use 3D printing to create a prototype

A prototype is the first step towards product approval. So, it can be redesigned and refined multiple times until it suits the client’s preferences and meets regulatory compliance. Simply put, a prototype can show whether the original product will work or not. The following are some ways to use 3D printing for a new prototype build:

Improving innovation in the design and creation process

Unlike traditional production processes, where assembly of parts is a prominent factor, 3D printing produces products from a single piece of material without the need for assembling. While it is time-saving, designers need to work on the design to make the prototype stand out.

Overcoming challenges during the process

Issues may arise during the design process and manufacturing. But 3D printing allows for changes and modifications with ease. So, it shouldn’t be a problem when it comes to overcoming certain design challenges.

Increasing Efficiency

Standard manufacturing processes are not productive and efficient. But 3D printing gives flexibility and versatility. For example, a 3D printer can develop multiple prototypes based on the model. Use the right 3D printer to improve your efficiency.

Lowering Waste

3D printers can lower the wastage of materials, time, and labor. This way, you can put your resources into developing new prototypes.

Improving Utilization

Lastly, 3D Printing Services enable you to improve the utilization of resources. You can focus on the most important aspects of your business without worrying about deadlines and wastage.

Get your design 3D printed in a short time! Contact Pentadesk today.