Category Archives: Plastic Injection Tooling

Aluminum Injection Mold Company

Choosing the Right Aluminum Injection Mold Company: A Comprehensive Guide

Aluminum injection molds play a crucial role in the manufacturing industry, enabling the production of high-quality components with precision and efficiency. When it comes to finding the ideal aluminum injection mold company, making the right choice can significantly impact your product’s success. In this guide, we will delve into the key considerations and benefits associated with aluminum injection molds, and provide valuable insights to help you choose the most suitable company for your needs.

Benefits of Aluminum Injection Molds

Aluminum injection molds offer several distinct advantages that make them a popular choice for manufacturers. Firstly, aluminum’s lightweight nature coupled with its exceptional durability makes it an ideal material for injection molds. This combination ensures reduced cycle times, increased productivity, and minimized wear and tear.

Secondly, aluminum possesses excellent thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient heat dissipation during the injection molding process. This capability results in faster cooling times, enabling higher production rates and reducing the risk of part defects.

Moreover, the design flexibility of aluminum injection molds allows for intricate detailing and complex geometries, meeting the demands of diverse industries. Whether you require precision components or innovative designs, aluminum injection molds can provide the necessary versatility to bring your vision to life.

Key Considerations for Choosing an Aluminum Injection Mold Company

When selecting an aluminum injection mold company, several factors should be carefully evaluated. Firstly, consider the company’s industry experience and expertise. A company with a proven track record in aluminum injection molding is more likely to possess the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver exceptional results.

Additionally, evaluate the manufacturing capabilities and technologies offered by the company. State-of-the-art equipment and advanced manufacturing processes can enhance efficiency, accuracy, and consistency, ensuring the highest quality molds.

Quality control measures and certifications are also crucial considerations. Look for companies that adhere to rigorous quality standards such as ISO certifications, as this ensures that they meet stringent industry requirements and maintain consistent product quality.

Customization options and design support are vital aspects to consider. A reputable aluminum injection mold company will offer comprehensive design and engineering support, assisting you in optimizing your product’s design for manufacturability and functionality.

Turnaround time and production capacity are essential factors, particularly if you have strict project deadlines or require high-volume production. Ensure that the company can meet your requirements without compromising on quality.

Cost-effectiveness and pricing structure should also be evaluated. Request detailed quotes and consider the overall value provided by the company, taking into account factors such as quality, lead time, and customer service.

Lastly, research customer testimonials and reputation to gain insights into the company’s customer satisfaction level and overall reputation within the industry. Positive feedback and references from previous clients are indicative of a reliable and trustworthy aluminum injection mold company.

Services Offered by Aluminum Injection Mold Companies

Top-tier aluminum injection mold companies offer a comprehensive range of services to meet various customer needs. These include:

Design and engineering support: Collaborating with experienced designers and engineers who can assist in refining your product’s design for optimal moldability and functionality.
Prototype development and testing: Creating prototypes to evaluate and validate the design before proceeding with full-scale production.
Mold manufacturing and fabrication: Utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques to produce high-quality aluminum injection molds with precision and accuracy.
Precision machining and finishing: Employing state-of-the-art CNC machining and finishing processes to ensure the molds’ dimensional accuracy and surface quality.
Mold maintenance and repair: Providing ongoing maintenance and repair services to extend the lifespan and functionality of the molds, reducing downtime and costs.
Value-added services: Some companies offer additional services such as assembly, packaging, and logistical support to streamline the manufacturing process further.

Industries Served by Aluminum Injection Mold Companies

Aluminum injection mold companies cater to a wide range of industries, including:

Automotive industry: Aluminum injection molds play a vital role in the automotive industry. From intricate interior components to engine parts, aluminum injection molds enable the production of lightweight, durable, and precise automotive parts. They contribute to fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, and overall cost-effectiveness in the automotive manufacturing process.

Aerospace and aviation sector: The aerospace industry demands high-quality components that meet stringent safety and performance standards. Aluminum injection molds offer the necessary strength, precision, and weight-saving properties required for aerospace applications. They enable the production of critical components used in aircraft, satellites, and other aerospace systems.
Consumer electronics and appliances: With the constant innovation and demand for smaller and more efficient electronics, aluminum injection molds are essential in the manufacturing of consumer electronics and appliances. These molds can produce intricate, lightweight components for smartphones, tablets, home appliances, and more, ensuring optimal functionality and durability.
Medical and healthcare devices: Precision and reliability are paramount in the medical and healthcare sector. Aluminum injection molds are instrumental in manufacturing medical devices, such as surgical instruments, implantable devices, and diagnostic equipment. They offer excellent biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and dimensional accuracy required for critical healthcare applications.
Packaging and container manufacturing: The packaging industry relies on aluminum injection molds to produce a wide range of containers, including bottles, caps, and closures. These molds provide design flexibility, enabling the creation of innovative packaging solutions while maintaining product integrity and quality.
Other relevant industries: Aluminum injection mold companies also serve industries such as telecommunications, industrial equipment, renewable energy, and more. The versatility and benefits of aluminum injection molds make them applicable in various sectors where lightweight, durable, and precisely manufactured components are required.

Case Studies/Success Stories

To better illustrate the capabilities and expertise of aluminum injection mold companies, let’s explore a few case studies:

Case Study: Automotive Industry Company X collaborated with an aluminum injection mold company to develop a complex automotive component. Through meticulous design optimization and advanced mold manufacturing techniques, the company achieved a lightweight yet robust component that met stringent performance requirements. The resulting part contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced production costs.
Case Study: Medical Device Manufacturing Company Y partnered with an aluminum injection mold company to produce a critical medical device. The collaboration involved close cooperation between designers, engineers, and mold manufacturers to ensure the precise dimensions and biocompatibility required for the device. The successful outcome led to increased product reliability, accelerated time-to-market, and enhanced patient safety.

At Sincere Tech, we are dedicated to maintaining our position as a leading plastic mold company by embracing industry advancements and anticipating future trends. We actively explore innovative materials and composites that offer improved performance and sustainability. Through ongoing investments in research and development, we deliver cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of our customers. As one of the best injection mold suppliers in China, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence.

In line with our commitment to sustainability, we prioritize environmentally friendly practices. We proactively seek sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable polymers, and implement recycling initiatives to minimize the environmental impact of our manufacturing processes. By choosing our custom injection molding services, you can align your brand with sustainable manufacturing practices and contribute to a greener future.

Quality is of the utmost importance to us, and we maintain stringent quality control measures throughout the entire manufacturing process. Our state-of-the-art facilities and skilled technicians ensure that each product undergoes rigorous inspection and testing, guaranteeing exceptional performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

When you partner with Sincere Tech as your preferred China mold maker, you can expect the highest level of professionalism, expertise, and innovation. We are dedicated to helping you bring your ideas to life, delivering superior products that excel in performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

Our expanded capabilities include:

Rapid Prototyping: We offer rapid prototyping services to quickly transform your concepts into tangible prototypes, allowing for iterative design improvements and accelerated product development.
Precision Tooling: Our advanced tooling capabilities enable us to create high-quality molds with tight tolerances, ensuring consistency and precision in your injection-molded products.
Overmolding: We specialize in overmolding, which allows for the combination of multiple materials or components, resulting in enhanced functionality, aesthetics, and durability.
Insert Molding: Our expertise in insert molding enables us to securely encapsulate inserts within the molded parts, facilitating efficient assembly and enhancing product performance.
Two-Shot Molding: With two-shot molding, we can produce complex, multi-material components in a single operation, reducing assembly requirements and enhancing design possibilities.
Value-Added Services: In addition to injection molding, we offer a range of value-added services, including product assembly, packaging, and logistics support, streamlining your supply chain and reducing costs.

Partner with Sincere Tech Mould suppliers for your custom injection molding needs, and benefit from our comprehensive capabilities, unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, and our drive to exceed your expectations at every step of the process. Together, let’s bring your innovative ideas to life.

Conclusion

Selecting the right aluminum injection mold company is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your manufacturing processes and product success. By considering factors such as industry experience, manufacturing capabilities, quality control measures, customization options, and customer testimonials, you can make an informed choice. Aluminum injection mold companies offer a wide range of services to cater to diverse industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and more. Their expertise and advanced technologies enable the production of lightweight, durable, and precise components, meeting the demands of modern manufacturing. Choose a reputable aluminum injection mold company to benefit from their extensive knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to delivering exceptional results. With the right partner, you can optimize your manufacturing processes, enhance product quality, and stay ahead in today’s competitive market.

Small Cast Aluminum Side Table

Small Cast Aluminum Side Table: The Perfect Addition to Your Home Decor

Meta Description: Discover the benefits of small cast aluminum side tables and learn where to buy them. Our guide includes tips for choosing the right table and maintaining it for years to come.

When it comes to home decor, every little detail counts. From the sofa to the throw pillows, every piece plays a role in creating a cohesive and inviting space. And while larger pieces may grab the most attention, it’s the smaller accents that can truly make a room feel like home.

Enter the small cast aluminum side table. This versatile piece is the perfect addition to any room, whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your living room or add some functionality to your bedroom.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features, advantages, and maintenance of small cast aluminum side tables. We’ll also provide tips on where to buy them and help you choose the right table for your home.

Definition of Small Cast Aluminum Side Table

Before we dive into the features and advantages of small cast aluminum side tables, let’s first define what we mean by this term.

Cast aluminum is a process where aluminum is poured into a mold and allowed to solidify. This creates a piece that is strong and durable, yet lightweight and easy to work with.

A small cast aluminum side table is a table that is made from cast aluminum and is designed to be small in size. These tables are typically used as accent pieces, adding a touch of elegance and functionality to any room.

Features of Small Cast Aluminum Side Table

There are many features that make small cast aluminum side tables a popular choice for home decor. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features:

Durability: Cast aluminum is a strong and durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. This means that small cast aluminum side tables can be used in high-traffic areas without fear of damage.
Lightweight: Despite their durability, small cast aluminum side tables are lightweight, making them easy to move and reposition as needed.
Easy to maintain: Small cast aluminum side tables are easy to clean and maintain. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
Available in a variety of styles and finishes: Small cast aluminum side tables are available in a wide range of styles and finishes, allowing you to find the perfect table to match your home’s decor.

Welcome to GC Precision Mould, your premier China die casting manufacturer and China Mold Maker. We specialize in producing high-quality plastic molds, die casting molds, and a wide range of die cast parts from materials such as aluminum, zinc, and magnesium.

At GC Precision Mould, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible aluminum die casting and other casting products and services. Our team of experienced engineers and technicians use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that every part we produce meets the highest standards of quality and accuracy.

Our products are widely used in a variety of industries, including automotive, consumer electronics, medical, and industrial equipment. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific needs and develop custom solutions that meet their unique requirements.

Whether you need a single plastic mold or a complete die casting production line, we have the expertise and resources to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your manufacturing goals.

If you have a project that needs Die casting China for your die casting project or mould suppliers to make injection molding products, contact us to get the best price now.

Advantages of Small Cast Aluminum Side Table

There are many advantages to choosing small cast aluminum side tables for your home. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key advantages:

Cost-effective: Small cast aluminum side tables are often more affordable than other types of tables, making them a great option for those on a budget.
Versatile: Small cast aluminum side tables can be used in a variety of settings, from the living room to the bedroom to the patio.
Easy to move: Small cast aluminum side tables are lightweight, making them easy to move and reposition as needed.
Environmentally friendly: Cast aluminum is a sustainable material that can be recycled and reused, making small cast aluminum side tables an eco-friendly option.

Where to Buy Small Cast Aluminum Side Table

Now that you know more about the features and advantages of small cast aluminum side tables, you may be wondering where to buy them. Here are some options to consider:

Online retailers: Online retailers such as Amazon and Wayfair offer a wide selection of small cast aluminum side tables at competitive prices.
Home decor stores: Home decor stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s carry a range of small cast aluminum side tables from various brands.
Specialty stores: Specialty stores that focus on home decor and furniture may also carry small cast aluminum side tables.
Hardware stores: Hardware stores such as Ace Hardware and Home Depot carry a range of small cast aluminum side tables and other home decor items.

How to Choose the Right Small Cast Aluminum Side Table

When it comes to choosing the right small cast aluminum side table, there are a few key factors to consider:

Size: Consider the size of the table in relation to the space where it will be placed. A small cast aluminum side table that is too large will look out of place, while a table that is too small may not be practical.
Style: Consider the overall style of your home and choose a small cast aluminum side table that complements it. You can find small cast aluminum side tables in a range of styles, from modern and minimalist to traditional and ornate.
Finish: The finish of the small cast aluminum side table can also affect its overall look and feel. Consider the color and texture of the finish and choose one that complements your home’s decor.
Material: Small cast aluminum side tables are available in a range of materials, including cast aluminum, wrought iron, and plastic. Consider the durability and maintenance requirements of each material before making a decision.

Conclusion:

Small cast aluminum side tables are a versatile and cost-effective addition to any home. With their durability, lightweight, and easy-to-maintain qualities, small cast aluminum side tables are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and functionality to any room. Whether you’re looking for a table to add to your living room, bedroom, or patio, there are many styles and finishes to choose from.

When choosing a small cast aluminum side table, consider factors such as size, style, finish, and material. By taking the time to find the right table for your home, you can add a touch of sophistication and style to any room.

If you’re in the market for a small cast aluminum side table, be sure to consider the options available online, at home decor stores, and at specialty stores. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect table to match your home’s decor.

In conclusion, small cast aluminum side tables are a great addition to any home. With their durability, versatility, and affordability, they’re a great option for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance and functionality to any room. So why wait? Start browsing online, visit your local home decor store, or check out your local hardware store to find the perfect small cast aluminum side table for your home today.

How to use wet & dryer straightening brush

Are you wanting to achieve the look of straight hair without making use of chemicals? Wet & dry straightening brush have been around for decades helping women to achieve the look of straight, smooth hair without the use of chemicals. There are two types of wet & dry straightening brush that could be used to achieve straight hair. The first type of pressing comb is heated using a stovetop burner. Its primary use is for the initial straightening process. The second type of pressing comb is connected into an electric outlet and is primarily used to touch-up previously straightened hair.
To begin the process of transforming your hair from tightly coiled or curly to straight smooth hair there are two simple things to perform first. Wash and condition the hair, and dry the hair completely to avoid sizzling moisture that can cause burns. Applying a hair conditioning dress prior to pressing your hair is optional. Now you prepare to begin straightening your hair.

You will certainly need a hot pressing comb, either type of comb is fine to use. If you use an electrically heated pressing comb, you will not accomplish the same appearance of straightness you would if you were using a stovetop heated pressing comb. The following directions are for using a stovetop heated pressing comb. You will also need a comb, preferably a rat-tailed comb, clips to part and section the hair, and a towel.
After checking to make sure the hair is entirely dry throughout, part the hair into four big sections, use a clip to hold the hair from slipping. Switch on among the stovetop burners to a medium heat or flame. Place the hot comb on top of the burner. Allow the burner to heat up for about a minute. Do not wait until the comb starts to give off smoke. The comb will be too hot and you are more likely to burn yourself. Take among the four big sections and make a part allowing some of the hair to come out of the section. It is best to begin with the hair at the back of the head.

Remove the comb from the stovetop and slowly comb through the smaller section of hair you removed from the larger section. Start about half an inch below the scalp and work all the way down to the end of the hair. Be careful not to skim your scalp. You may need to do this three times or until your hair is totally straight. This small section is now completed.

Wipe off the hot comb with the towel to remove excess moisture if you used a conditioning dress. Return the pressings comb to the stovetop burner and let it reheat. While reheating the comb, pick another small area of hair from the larger section. When the pressing comb is heating repeat the above steps. Continue the steps of reheating and straightening the hair until the entire section is straighten. Go on to the next section of hair and repeat steps. Continue doing this until the entire head of hair is straight.

You can now add a conditioning dress to the hair if one wasnâEUR ™ t added before you began. Comb the hair all the way through and go over once with the pressing comb to ensure you captured all of the curls. You have now successfully turned your tightly coiled or curly hair into beautiful straight hair.

To use an electrically heated pressing comb heat the comb to the appropriate setting for your hair type and follow the above the steps.

A few Techniques for Plastic Molding

Plastic is one of the fundamental materials for certain producers. The results of plastic assembling have been broadly utilized for a large portion of the clients. The plastic items which are ordinarily utilized incorporate the vehicle guards, PDA, hatcheries for the infant, and some different products for either the family or the business. Every one of those items may require various techniques.

Plastic is broadly utilized by some unique makers since it tends to be formed effectively. There are some basic strategies for plastic molding. Here are three strategies for plastic molding which are generally utilized.

Injection Blow Molding

This injection blow molding strategy for plastic molding begins by dissolving the fluid plastic in the council of the machine and afterward sending the melted plastic to a form for making the ideal shape. Injection Blow molding practices on making the blessed item, for example, bottles, bike fuel tanks, hoses, guards, and some other empty items. Likewise, the last item is consistent. The fundamental procedure of this strategy is that the air is blown and bolted with the goal that it makes empty. At the point when the condensed plastic is poured on the form, the plastic will solidify with the goal that you can make the shape you need. At that point, you can haul out the form through a shaped cavity.

Infusion Molding

This sort of technique utilizes thermoplastics. Among different techniques, this is utilized all the more frequently by the maker. The techniques incorporate the shooting hot fluid thermoplastic at the rapid to a fired shape. At that point, the form is attached firmly while the plastic will pursue the state of the shape. The plastic will be chilled off by the little vents on each side. At the point when it is cool, it will be evacuated and afterward painted. Be that as it may, this technique leaves little crease with the goal that the last item will be done for better outcomes. The items which are made through this technique incorporate the toys, MP3 player cases, vehicle dashboard packaging, and some others.

Thermoforming

This strategy is centering for making bigger things which are for the most part utilized for the utilization of modern and home outfitting. This strategy is very basic. You just need to warm the plastic until it is flexible with the goal that it very well may be controlled to making the ideal shape. At that point, the little machine will add any detail to the things, for example, body cleaning, brightening, and following stepping. The normal results of this strategy incorporate flying machine windscreens, truck beds, mechanical beds, and some other bigger things.

Plastic injection Molding for Toys

Numerous plastic molding toys are made through injection molding, toys made in plastic have points of interest of good quality, and lightweight, brilliant enhancement, and complex structure are conceivable, monetary. China is the greatest plastic toy showcase, just as the greatest maker, numerous world-renowned plastic toys maker built up their exploration focus and assembling offices in China, for example, Hasbro, Lego, and Mattel.

Infusion Shape for Plastic Toys

Plastic toy shape created in China observe the nearby models, the infusion form is required to make as modest as conceivable as long as it delivers the requested amount of plastic parts. Typically plastic toys don’t require high accuracy, so does the form, the family made the shape is prescribed.

injection Molding for Plastic Toys

High volume injection molding generation requires Class 101 injection molds, hot spout, and programmed creation configuration are prescribed to limit the molding cost when you choose to include reuse plastic material, be cautious about the thickness and quality it may influence. Toy parts consistently have a bright appearance, the shading powder blend proportion and infusion molding parameter must be fixed, something else, the shade of each cluster parts would have un-acknowledged deviation.

Infusion shaped plastic toys parts ordinarily require auxiliary procedure, such as painting, covering, printing, on the off chance that you are searching for an injection mold production line to do your toy parts, do work with a molding manufacturing plant who has ability to give one-stop administrations, similar to Expert Form, so you could limit the piece rate and dangers.

The most effective method to keep up the Injection Molds

Some stages about the Injection forming upkeep

1. Recording

The working condition of the shape is typically recorded in detail.

Insights on the utilization and care of the shape (oil, cleaning, rust counteractive action) and harm

In view of this, you can discover which parts and segments are harmed and the level of wear.

To give data on the disclosure and critical thinking,

Just as the trim procedure parameters of the form

Furthermore, the materials utilized in the item

So as to abbreviate the creation time of the form,

Improve creation effectiveness and guarantee the positive existence of the form.

2. Testing

The organization should test the different properties of the Injection form under the typical activity of the infusion shaping machine and the form,

What’s more, measure the size of the last formed part.

This data can be utilized to decide the present condition of the shape

What’s more, recognize the harm to the depression, center, cooling framework, and separating surface.

As per the data gave by the plastic parts

The harm condition of the plastic infusion form and the measures for upkeep can be judged.

3. Clean up

Focus superficially support of the form

Which legitimately influences the surface nature of the item, the attention is on anticipating erosion.

Accordingly, it is particularly essential to pick an appropriate, top-notch, proficient enemy of rust oil.

After the form has finished the generation task the remaining infusion embellishment ought to be painstakingly evacuated by various infusion shaping strategies.

Use copper poles, copper wire, and expert shape cleaning specialist to expel leftover infusion forming and different stores in the form, at that point air dry.

Cripple the cleaning of hard items, for example, wire and steel bars to abstain from starting to expose what’s underneath.

In the event that there is rust brought about by destructive infusion shaping, utilize a processor to pound and clean, and shower proficient enemy of rust oil.

At that point store the plastic infusion shape in a dry, cool, without dust place.

Prototyping Manufacturing

Our objective with the V-Flash™ desktop modeler is to enable designers, engineers, hobbyists and students to imagine, design and produce, whenever they want, whatever they want – directly at their desk.

History of excellence

Founded in 1986, we are a leading provider of rapid 3-D Printing, Prototyping and Manufacturing solutions.

Our systems and materials reduce the time and cost of designing products and facilitate direct and indirect manufacturing by creating actual parts directly from digital input.

These solutions are used for design communication and prototyping as well as for production of functional end-use parts.

In addition to the V-Flash™ desktop modeler, we offer SLA™ systems (stereolithography), SLS™ systems (selective laser sintering), InVision™ and ProJet 3-D Modeling solutions as well as diverse materials, software and application solutions

3D printed Stainless Steel Parts

In August, when I ordered a bunch of parts for the beard trimmer I’m working on, I also ordered a small stainless steel ring that I designed in a couple of hours. The ring was for me to check out in person the quality of Shapeways.com’s 3D printing in stainless steel. It is also intended to replace the stainless wedding band that I have been wearing. It arrived today (finally!).

I like it overall. The design was to look a little Art Deco and does so, though more in person than in the photo, I think. More importantly, my wife approves. It’s always odd to see something from my brain (or my screen) manifested in the real world.

The resolution of the printing is so-so. I am happy with it, but I am VERY glad that I did this test before I promise anyone anything printed in 3D (which, I will do, by the way, just contact me). Just know that you’re supposed to be looking at smooth surfaces when you are looking at the pictures.

The metal itself feels VERY solid and strong. I am pleased with that. I will likely do some tests on it to see how well the surface can be smoothed by secondary process (i.e. a grinder), but that will be for one offs it is works, NOT for productions runs of any sort.

Anyhow, feel free to let me know what you think.

NOTE: everyone who has seen the ring in person says that this photo does NOT do it justice. Apparently the level of detail apparent in the photo is lower than the real deal and the texture from the process is way worse in the photo than in real life.

EDIT: 1/21/10 I have no idea why I didn’t do this sooner. If you want a copy of the ring, or a bunch of other cool 3D printed stuff available, check out Shapeways.

3D printed Stainless Steel

Alas the ring is not quite perfect. Despite the major composition being stainless steel, there is a little bronze in the ring. This has led to slight discoloration on my finger. I believe it comes about when I wash my hands and don’t remove the ring and thoroughly dry it and my finger. This is unfortunate, since I think that this is likely not normal behavior for most people. If I’m wrong, please let me know.

The implications that this has is that this process is not ready for prime time jewelry production. I personally will continue to wear the ring since I have no issues with the slight color, but customers as a whole are not so picky. I had been thinking about approaching a couple of retail outlets locally to sell small quantities, but this won’t fly.

The other thought is perhaps it has something to do with my own body chemistry? My previous ring was stainless, but perhaps my vegan diet makes me more basic or acidic than a “normal” person and perhaps most people won’t have this happen. I will have to find more people who have experience with the 3D printed metal before I know, I guess.

3D Scanning

Ugh, what a difficult day. I spent a good part of it creating a set up for 3D scanning and feel like I got no where. But, lessons were learned.

I was working on getting the free software from DAVID to work to do basic scans. If it worked out, I was ready to start saving the $ (well, technically euros) to get the professional version of their software. Just think, less than $600 to have something that puportedly works as well as the $3000 scanners out there. I am not saying that I won’t start saving, but I am not as inspired as I was hoping to be.

I believe my problem all came down to hardware limitations. I do NOT blame the software. First off, my laser was questionable from the get go. You need a “line laser.” I was using the Straight-line laser level that I stole (er, borrowed) from my neighbors this morning when dog-sitting. I don’ t think it is bright enough.

The second hardware issue was that I was using the webcam in my Macbook Pro. Now the camera itself is fine from a spec standpoint, but it is pointed at the user, which means that I had to set up the stage on top of my keyboard. It didn’t necessarily keep anything from working, but is sure did make it so that I ran out of patience sooner than I probably would have.

The software itself is Windows only, so I was running the Mac in Bootcamp with XP. The software ran just fine and it was relatively easy to figure out, though, admittedly, I did have to READ THE MANUAL. Terrible, I know.

So I am about to put an request for a free webcam out on Freecycle. I figure that is one of those items that people don’t use but feel like they shouldn’t throw away.

If I can come up with that, I have seen a pretty good line laser made out of a regular laser and a glass or acrylic cylinder. I will work on constructing one. Of course, I will post results.

If I can get a rudimentary setup working, I will take a more serious look at the starter kit that they sell at the DAVID site. From the 3rd party reviews that I have read, it sounds like it is pretty good software.

3D printed iPhone cases

As I recently learned from Freedom of Creation, FreshFiber has launched a line of 3D printed iPhone cases. This touches on something that I have been working on, an iPhone “case” project that hopefully will see light of day within the next month or so.

I do have some reservations about their product, though. While I think this is a great application for 3D printing technology, I am an iPhone user and I have been through a few different cases. The first one I had was super minimal. Since I carry the phone in one of my pants pockets and the my favorite part of the form factor was how slim it was compared to my Treo 680, I wanted a case that didn’t bulk up the profile. The one I got barely wrapped around the edges, was a single piece of plastic and was minimal as it gets. After a year of loving use (read abuse) I had to exchange my phone for a factory refurb because of some issues with the audio jack.

When I removed the cover that I had used for the last year, I discovered that because their wasn’t a perfectly tight seal between the phone and the plastic tiny particle of pocket matter had managed to get in between the phone and the case and proceeded to scratch the ever-living daylights out of the iPhone’s mirror black, oh-so-pretty finish. While the case certainly did its job against falls, it actually performed worse for scratches than a bare iPhone would have done.

Palstic Injection Mold & Part Design

Plastic Injection Tooling Design & Part Design