Site updated: Monday, January 03, 2011

View our dedicated 3D Printer web-site www.3d-printer.co.za

3D Component and Assembly Design

:: 3D Modeling ::

3D modeling is the process of developing a mathematical representation of any three-dimensional surface of object  via specialized software. The product is called a 3D model. It can be displayed as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering or used in a computer simulation of physical phenomena

 

We turn your ideas into reality. Through the use of high end 3D CAD systems, we can take your 2D drawings, or even just your concept sketches into glorious 3D.

If you can imagine it - we can model it.

The 3D model can then be used down the line to create 2D drawings for manufacture, advanced renderings for publications, 3D rapid prototyping, tooling design, assembly simulations and much much more.

read more here...

 

3D Printing

:: 3D Printers ::

3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing technology where a three dimensional object is created by successive layers of material. 3D printers are generally faster, more affordable and easier to use than other additive manufacturing technologies.

Standard applications include design visualization, prototyping/CAD, metal casting, architecture, education, geospatial, healthcare, entertainment/retail, etc

Not happy with a mere digital representation of your product. Need to check a design for aesthetics and functionality?

Why not have a 3D prototype printed in tough, durable plastic. This is a much cheaper solution than even considering prototype tooling.

Use the 3D prototype for for market research, form and functional fit or even as a fully functional ounce off part.

Let us design an optimal model for 3D rapid prototyping and grow it for you, and you can have a copy of your part in your hands in no time at all.

Read about our capabilities here...

See more 3D Printing here...

CNC Manufacturing

:: CNC Machining ::

Numerical control (NC) refers to the automation of machine tools that are operated by abstractly programmed commands encoded on a storage medium, as opposed to manually controlled via handwheels or levers, or mechanically automated via cams alone.

In modern CNC systems, end-to-end component design is highly automated using CAD/CAM programs. The programs produce a computer file that is interpreted to extract the commands needed to operate a particular machine via a postprocessor, and then loaded into the CNC machines for production.

CAD House have their own in-house CNC manufacturing capabilities. This is another solution we offer to manufacture prototypes in record time.

Components can be machined from various materials, including plastics, aluminum and other non ferrous metals. Wax models can also be machined which can be used for lost wax casting techniques and soft moulding.

A Machined component can be much more rigid and precise than parts manufactured using other rapid prototyping techniques. This means that the product will be a fully functional prototype. Some applications for CNC machining click here.

See a 4 Axis CNC milling machine in action here

 

Prototype Tooling

:: Soft Tooling ::

Soft tooling is normally associated with low cost and so the terms soft and low cost, are often used interchangeably.

The most obvious definition for soft tooling corresponds to the type of materials used for manufacturing the tool. With this definition ‘hard tooling’ often refers to those tools made from hardened steels. Materials with lower hardness are considered ‘soft’, e.g. silicone, rubber, epoxy resin, low melting point alloys, zinc alloys, aluminium, etc..

Using various soft tooling techniques, we can produce low volume production runs of prototype parts.

Models are created using a combination of CNC machining, 3D printing and manual model making techniques.  The models are then used for direct casting of soft tooling. Models are often made from wax, epoxies, wood or clay.

Moulds can be cast from a variety of materials, either flexible silicones and urethanes or rigid epoxy materials, depending on the application.

Functional prototypes can then be repetitively cast using various rigid or flexible materials. Materials can be coloured by adding pigment or painted. This is a very cost affective solution prior to the manufacture of expensive hard tooling.

Mold inserts can also be cast or machined from extremely tough materials which can be used in prototype tooling for injection moulding applications.

Hardware Solutions

:: 3D Input ::

What is a 3D Mouse?

Revolutionise the way you work with 3D applications. Pan, zoom and rotate the model or camera as if you’re holding it in your hand. It’s a level of control that’s simply not possible with a traditional mouse and keyboard. Whether you’re working on complex assemblies, dazzling 3D models or fantastic fly throughs, with a 3D mouse you can set your imagination free!

As a serious CAD user, you know the importance of not being let down by your equipment.

Today’s high end 3D CAD systems require hardware that is up for the job. You need workstation class graphics, a display that is easy on the eyes, large amounts of physical memory and enough processing power to launch the space shuttle.

As a user of 3D applications you also need the accessories which will make you more productive - one such example is the 3DConnexion range of 3D input devices

Let us put together a package that will suite your needs - and that of the software you intend to use.

See our range of 3D Printers.

 

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