Low-Cost Rapid Prototyping System

RapidPRO allows the user to create solid objects designed using any CAD system capable of saving files in .STL format, a common standard in the 3D CAD world. Pro/DESKTOP, one of the CAD systems used in conjunction with the DfEE supported “CAD/CAM in Schools initiative is one such system. (Note: the educational version of ArtCAM, obtainable via the same initiative, does not have the ability to save files in .STL format).

RapidPRO imports a solid model and, using a special “wizard”, takes just a few clicks to “slice” the model. The slices are then cut out of sticky-backed paper in conjunction with a vinyl cutter (for instance a Roland CAMM-1), nesting as many slices as possible on a sheet to minimise paper usage. To further minimise material costs, the model can be scaled and the required number of sheets is displayed at any chosen scale.

The vinyl cutter also cuts registration holes and numbers each slice. The slices are retained in whole sheets and positioned accurately on assembly pegs in an ordered manner, the backing paper being removed between each slice. The assembly process is surprisingly fast and accurate. A craft knife is required to facilitate “weeding” of paper that is not used in the final model, for instance the circles that form internal holes. When finally assembled, the models are surprisingly strong and, as the name of the product suggests, can include geometry elements that are impossible to machine, like internal shaped holes for instance. The assembled models can be further sprayed and sanded to form a smooth finish if that is necessary. The models are strong enough to be used as moulds for vacuum forming and low-pressure injection moldings.The software will be delivered with a number of injection moulded plastic pegs. Additional pegs can be supplied enabling a class of students to be furnished with a pegs very economically. The model assembly process lends itself well to a homework project for instance. Boxford can optionally supply a pack of materials at extra cost. The product is available to schools, colleges, universities and industrial users world-wide.

While the main application of the system is intended to be Rapid Prototyping, those users without CNC machines but with a vinyl cutter can use it in conjunction with the software as a Rapid Manufacturing centre to recreate all their solid models from paper. In these circumstances, RapidPRO provides a meaningful reason for joining the CADCAM Initiative and taking advantage of the free pro/DESKTOP software.

Here is a demonstration of the type of work that can be performed with RapidPRO, these models were created in a classroom environment, courtesy of The University of Utah, Mechanical Engineering Department.

Call for a demonstration 800-776-8093.