Rapid Prototype Blog

Posts Tagged ‘Production’

I am working on a prototype and I am looking for an average cost of production based off the prototype cost. If there is such a relation ship. I know production cost will depend on quantity ordered and involvement.
So if my prototype cost $500, what could I expect a production cost to be?
Basic product details:
CNC milled from aluminum
4 pieces make up the whole part.
Ask me for additional details.

As the implications for 3D solid modeling and rapid prototyping continue to grow the impact for consumers and small businesses to manufacture products continues to grow as well. If a new product is needed by a business of customer a CAD file can be purchased, uploaded and the 3D solid modeling can reproduce it. Maybe a plastic ABS buckle needs replacing or a new product appeals to the consumer, 3D solid modeling has the capability to produce replicas, models or prototypes quickly and easily. Advancements in fabrication materials allow an almost unlimited potential for products with 3D solid modeling technology.

3D Solid Modeling Applications

3D solid modeling technology is on the brink of enhancing product availability for everyone. The technology once used only by manufacturing industries is becoming available for general use and not just for large manufacturers. 3D solid modeling will provide enhanced capabilities for production techniques to be used by the average person. Just imagine that you have a broken fan in your computer and you have no time to purchase another. What to do? With 3D solid modeling technology you can produce an exact replica of the part needed. Once produced you replace the old one with the new and your back in operation. 3D solid modeling can apply prototyping technology in a variety of applications. The technology for 3D solid modeling is computer assisted design software instructing a 3D printer to build models layer by layer on a platform until an exact reproduction according to specifications is produced.

Everyone with kids has games and toys needing repair or replacement parts. These parts could be replaced as 3D solid modeling technology would manufacture a brand new toy or just the piece that needs repairing. 3D solid modeling along with 3D printers has opened up a whole new set of options by allowing consumers to play a role in the design and manufacture of products they wish to purchase. Because of 3D solid modeling consumers will not have to purchase products in colors and designs they don’t want or need. 3D solid modeling will eventually allow the customizing, designing and manufacturing of many products by the same individual who will be purchasing them.

3D Solid Modeling Advantages

The use of 3D solid modeling for businesses is also one of many applications of 3D solid modeling technology. In this application the small business would produce a custom product for the consumer by purchasing or downloading a (CAD) software package for the item they wanted and produce it exactly to the specifications of the customer, many times while they waited. One of many 3D solid modeling printers would then begin to manufacture the customized item for the purchaser.

3D solid modeling offers options such as customizing colors and product materials would be available to the consumer with a 3D solid modeling program. In a short period of time a customized product would be ready for the consumer to take home and use. Think about purchasing a gift and having it made in the store while you wait. Maybe that special train or model car for a grandchild as a gift could be produced by 3D solid modeling technology.

Among the many new cars and concept vehicles that were rolled out at the 2009 New York International Auto Show, the Acura ZDX created some of the most buzz. What Acura calls a four-door sports coupe, visitors to the show have named it one of the most impressive looking new vehicles among scores introduced, a true game changer for the Acura brand.

The ZDX was designed to include rousing styling, contemporaneous luxury and fastidious refinement. Featuring aesthetic curves, an aggressively raked roofline and conspicuous fender flares, the ZDX embodies the design traits found in a coupe, sedan and sport utility vehicle.

A streamlined design running from the headlights to the length of the car helps to punctuate the car’s presence and elegance. In keeping with the coupe-inspired styling, the rear door handles are smartly concealed in the C-pillar. The all-glass liftgate opens widely to bring out a highly utilitarian cargo space with integrated under-floor repository. The prototype is finished off with chic dual chrome exhaust outlets and 9-spoke machined wheels outfitted with 20-inch Michelin tires.

“From the very first sketch of the ZDX, I wanted to create an emotional vehicle that challenged conventional thinking of what a sports coupe should be,” said Michelle Christensen, ZDX exterior designer. “My goal was to create a strikingly beautiful exterior, and use that attraction to help draw you into the rich interior.”

Inside, the ZDX expresses contemporary luxury while focusing on coddling front passengers. The cabin is awash in leather, an attribute which gives the interior a luxurious and welcoming feel. The hand-stitched leather dash and instrument panel sweep down to form a dual cockpit layout, creating a personal and intimate experience for the front seat occupants.

Premium leather seats are highly bolstered to aid passengers during sporty driving while providing comfort for a long trip. A black monochromatic center stack leads to the textured metallic center console, which complements the black and pearl white leather trim. The thick leather wrapped steering wheel provides ample grip and is framed by racing-inspired paddle shifters. The cabin is enclosed by a panoramic glass roof which runs the entire length of the vehicle, providing occupants with a exciting view of the world around them.

The production version of the ZDX will arrive in Acura dealerships this fall and will pair an all-new six speed automatic transmission to a powerful V-6 engine. All wheel drive is standard as are the usual Acura attributes including class leading handling and cornering.