Developments in software, tooling and practices have led to some great innovations in design over the years; but none quite like the dawn of 3D (additive) printing.
As one of the first Welsh companies to embrace 3D printing back in 2001, we have been mastering the craft for over 20 years. Helping innovative inventors to kickstart their creations from design to reality.
Here are 6 practical ways 3D printing with Design Reality can help you:
1. Physical testing
3D printing has offered a new level of product design previously un-thought of: with the ability to quickly and cheaply producing one-off iterations throughout the design process. Whilst you might have the perfect invention in theory, it’s not until you have a physical prototype in front of you that you can really tell in practice. Unlike home printers, our industrial grade HP4200 multi-jet fusion, Stratasys Eden and Connex 500, can print in a variety of materials and definitions – resulting in a precise build without the need of sanding or filing. Click here to find out more about our on-site 3D printers.
2. Creator involvement
The accessibility of 3D printing has allowed some inventors to become involved beyond the initial concept phase. While small scale 3D printing is becoming more accessible at home, not every inventor has the skillset, experience or inclination to self-produce prototypes. That’s why our team of designers, developers and engineers are on hand to help – turning sketches into prints, and ideas into products.
3. An evolution of design
Offering a near limitless capacity for customization, 3D printing with Design Reality can truly help you optimise the quality and efficiency of your idea. Approached by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, we were asked to print specialist door handles to allow NHS staff to open doors with their forearms rather than their hands. Through research, printing and prototyping, we were able to discover flaws in the existing model provided and create something new that overcame these issues.
4. Novel application
Additive printing isn’t just for spare parts and widgets. Our ability to print in a range of materials has allowed us to help others develop applications in a wide range of fields; such as healthcare – with high-precision resin-based prints suitable for sterilisation, sport – with light-weight yet durable materials, and the consumer market – with mass production capabilities.
5. Material Innovation
We are able to print in a range of specialised materials, from novel polymers to lightweight metals, which are especially attractive for durability, reproducibility, storing and shipping. Not only does additive manufacturing result in cost reduction, but it has encouraged unforeseen material innovation. The market for 3D printed orthopaedic implants, for example, was valued at $691 million in 2018 and is predicted by SmarTech Analysis to grow into a $3.7 billion market by 2027. Our experienced designers can help you assess material options for your design and what would work best for you.
6. Economic efficiency
Localising the prototyping phase of product design with 3D printing has a number of economic benefits too. From reduced tooling costs, to a lower carbon footprint, it’s easy to see why localized 3D printing is becoming more and more popular.
Having pioneered the way in 3D additive printing, Design Reality are here to help you to take your product to the next level, wherever you are at in the process.
Offering a truly bespoke customer-focused experience, get in touch for your free initial product design consultation today.
