Rule 1: Mold tolerances become more critical.As parts get smaller, any miscalculations have a significantly greater impact. When requesting a micro mold, aim for 10 percent part tolerances, as opposed to the 25 to 50 percent level commonly seen in macro molds, […]
Trochoidal (tro-koid’l) toolpaths are curves connected with a circle that roll along a straight line or path. […]
Most HMC machines include the option of retrofitting pallets and larger automatic tool changer (ATC) capacity in the field, but careful examination is required to be certain that the retrofitting option can be easily and economically implemented. […]
Digital Shape Sampling and Processing (DSSP) encompasses multiple advances in 3-D scanning technologies. It describes the ability to use scanning hardware and processing software to digitally capture physical objects and automatically create accurate 3-D models for design, engineering, inspection and custom manufacturing. […]
Low-volume layered manufacturing (LVLM) is a design-thru-manufacturing method that is already known by many different names in the short time it has been an option for engineers. Whether you call it rapid manufacturing (RM) or direct digital manufacturing, LVLM has the potential to re-define the way products are designed. This technique provides plastic engineers with [...]
Additive fabrication (AF) technology encompasses a wide range of applications, including design review, concept modeling, prototyping, fit and function testing, pattern making and tooling. It also is applied to the manufacture of fixtures, assembly aids and test rigs, as well as parts that end up in final products. […]
Rapid Manufacturing (RM), also referred to as direct digital manufacturing (DDM), is the production of end-use parts using additive fabrication processes. Recent advances in AF technologies and materials allow the manufacture of parts for a variety of production applications. […]
By this time in the 21st century, you should be well aware of the technologies of additive fabrication, otherwise known as rapid prototyping. These technologies have existed for more than two decades and are common tools in the product development process for most engineers and designers. […]
It is up to the high-speed machining software to make the most of these components, and to drive the process for maximum benefit. To do this, the software should excel in four areas: (1) optimizing tooling stability, (2) promoting toolpath efficiency, (3) maximizing operating performance and (3) enhancing ease of use—both in programming and operations. [...]
Success with high-speed machining requires a thorough under-standing of the required tools and methods and of their benefits and limitations. […]