Rapid Prototyping Lab (RPL)

Rapid prototyping (or 3D printing) is a technology that allows for the creation of complex 3 dimensional prototypes in a very short time. This allows product concepts to be rapidly tested from an aesthetics, ergonomics or engineering point of view. It allows ideas to be tested before committing major costs to going into production, and allows several faster iterations of the product development process before a design is finalized. The Atkinson Rapid Prototyping Lab can produce parts on a Z-Corp Spectrum 510 3D printer.

The Z-Corp Spectrum 510 creates color models out of a plaster-like material. The specifications of what the machine is capable of are as follows: Material: Plaster coated with plastic resin Maximum size: 10" x 14" x 8" Minimum thickness: 1/16" to 1/8" If you wish to have models made, you will need to have a 3D CAD model of the components you need. This CAD model will need to be in STL format (which most CAD programs can convert to).

It should be noted that 3D printing is not a cheap technology to use and that certain guidelines therefore apply if it is to be used effectively. Please use the links on the left for handy tips on preparing your files.