A New Mindset in Product Design
A New Mindset in Product Design
By Stratasys Inc.
The terms 3D printing and additive manufacturing refer to processes that automatically build objects layer by
layer from computer data. The technology is already well-used in many sectors including transportation, health care,
military and education. Uses include building concept models, functional prototypes, factory tooling (such as molds
and robot-arm ends), and even finished goods (such as aircraft internal components). The aerospace and medical
industries in particular have developed advanced applications for 3D printing. 3D printing is sometimes referred to as
rapid prototyping, but this term does not encompass all current uses for the technology. Materials used in 3D printing
include resins, plastics and, in some cases, metal.
F O R A 3 D W O R L D TM
White Paper
3D-printed models are shown with soluble support material (brown) intact, and
after removal.
Industry
Old Method
Time
savings
Industrial design
Clay models
96%
Education
Outsourced machining
87%
Aerospace
2D laser cutting
75%
Automotive
Aluminum tooling
67%
Aerospace
43%
ADOPTING 3D PRINTING
TO REDUCE PRODUCT-DESIGN COSTS
run. Leasing options can mitigate the cost barriers that may have
Acist Medical Systems designs and manufactures contrastinjection devices for cardiologists and radiologists. The company
Your desired application will help you determine the best system
for you, but keep in mind that many users report discovering
1. Terry Wohlers, Wohlers Report 2011: Additive manufacturing and 3D printing state of the industry (Wohlers Associates, May 2011)
2. David Mantey, Smaller, Cheaper, Faster (Product Design & Development, June 2008)
3. James Burley and Greg Stevens, 3,000 Raw Ideas = 1 Commercial Success, (Research Technology Management, May-June 1997, 16-27)
4. Stratasys; Bringing Imaginative Products to Market (2011), Rapid Learners (2011), Trial and Air (2012), 3D Printing Wins Prototyping Time Trial (2010),
Birds Eye View (2011)
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For more information about Stratasys systems, materials and applications, call 888.480.3548 or visit www.stratasys.com