Product category:
Machinery and Production Equipment
News Release from: GTMA
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 26 October 2000
The rapid prototyping and toolmaking
link
Following design and rapid prototyping, tool making is a third element that needs equally careful consideration if the goal of faster product development is to be achieved
For progressive companies meeting ever demanding time scales the effective use of rapid product development methods are essential "UK toolmakers are doing their bit to speed up the service that they offer," states Steve Eyles, Chief Executive of the GTMA
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 3 Feb 2005 at 8.00am (UK)
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"There is widespread investment in modern technology, in particular a wide range of Rapid Prototyping methods, High-Speed Machining and more powerful CADCAM systems.
Delivery times for all types of tooling are now at levels that would have been thought impossible as recently as two years ago." Today, toolmakers are being asked to produce intricate components that involve complex and interlocking curves that would be impossible to represent in 2D, therefore the designer and the adoption of 3D solid modelling techniques, together with integrated CAM processes, play an important role in faster product development.
Furthermore, 3D solid modelling enables a 'master model' approach to product development in which downstream applications and processes, such as documentation production, rapid prototyping and manufacturing etc.
are driven from the 3D master model held in the CAD/CAM system.
The ability to model components in 3D gives a much clearer idea of the finished product.
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The 3D solid model data from the CAD/CAM system is also used to 'drive' in-house rapid prototyping systems which include stereolithography, selective laser sintering, vacuum casting, sintered tooling etc.
Prototype components can be produced using an RP system in as little as 3 -4 hours.
The prototype parts can then be physically tested and used for further development, with any required modifications being fed back into the CAD/CAM system.
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In this way, product development becomes an interactive process between 3D solid modelling, rapid prototyping, physical testing and modification of RP parts in the workshop, followed by further 3D modelling in order to update the component model and just as important, the assembly in which it occurs.
Steve Eyles believes that following design and rapid prototyping, tool making is a third element that needs equally careful consideration if the goal of faster product development is to be achieved.
"There is a logical link between rapid prototyping and toolmaking.
In most cases, prototyping is the first step in the transition between concept designs and manufactured products, with toolmaking being the next stage.
It is important that the development process is regarded as an integrated whole rather than as a series of distinct operations." suggested Mr.Eyles.
There are already several companies that have identified the improved service that can be given, and extra business that can be won, by offering a broader range of facilities.
Many toolmakers have added prototyping to their range of services, while others started out as an RP bureaux and have subsequently expanded downstream into toolmaking.
In addition, many toolmakers are adding sample production to their capabilities, recognising that CAD analysis and rapid prototypes can only go so far in testing component performance.
To help companies seeking to speed up product development, the GTMA has developed a World Class Rapid Product Development Profile in conjunction with TCT, RPMA, and industry advisors including Rover/BMW and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The DTI is supporting this initiative to help UK manufacturing industry increase its capabilities, leading to improved competitiveness and sustainability.
"The Rapid Product Development Profile will assist companies in taking up the most modern best practices and respond to the challenge of getting products to market faster." states Steve Eyles.
"Those who adopt it now will be better placed to take advantage of knowledge based engineering and compete with the best in the World." The GTMA has also formed close links with academic centres of product development and rapid prototyping expertise, including the Warwick Manufacturing Group in Coventry, Buckinghamshire University College in High Wycombe and De Montfort University in Leicester.
"Despite its perceived traditional image, toolmaking is now a high-technology industry.
In order to effect faster "concept to component" manufacture, UK toolmakers are now leading the way ahead.
"I would challenge any customer who is not totally satisfied with his current tooling supplier to contact GTMA" concluded Steve Eyles.
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