3D Model Dimensional Inspection
X-ray CT scanning and 3D Laser scanning are ideal for dimensional inspection of components, especially when ergonomic or freeform shapes are involved.
Modern CAD software is not limited to prismatic features. Designers are able to incorporate a wide variety of shapes that often defy inspection without the use of scanning. This is especially true with injection molded components.
When diagnosing overmolding problems or assembly issues on parts with complex surfaces, scanning is often the only way to collect enough data to accurately characterize the components and find the problems. Sometimes it's even beneficial to "reverse engineer" the molded component and create a solid model (CAD model) with shrinks, checks, warps, etc intact.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
3D Model AVAST XP 64-bit Problem
3D Model AVAST XP 64-bit Problem
"There could be an issue with your operating system probably" is the AVAST support response to this issue.
Due to the nature of my work, I run Windows XP 64-bit. I've been using AVAST anti virus software for 3 years and until recently, I've been a big fan of their product. But starting with the release of version 6, I've been having problems with updates. Some virus database updates corrupt my system and prevent the system from booting, causing it to hang during the boot process.
To fix this issue I have to:
1. Boot in Safe Mode
2. Un-install AVAST
3. Boot normally
4. Re-install AVAST
After the above, the system will behave normally until another AVAST update. Not every update causes a problem. In fact, most don't, but 4 times in the last month I've had to recover using the above procedure.
A Google search on this issue reveals that I'm not the only one with this problem. If you're running XP 64-bit and looking for anti-virus software, you might do well to look at something other than AVAST.
"There could be an issue with your operating system probably" is the AVAST support response to this issue.
Due to the nature of my work, I run Windows XP 64-bit. I've been using AVAST anti virus software for 3 years and until recently, I've been a big fan of their product. But starting with the release of version 6, I've been having problems with updates. Some virus database updates corrupt my system and prevent the system from booting, causing it to hang during the boot process.
To fix this issue I have to:
1. Boot in Safe Mode
2. Un-install AVAST
3. Boot normally
4. Re-install AVAST
After the above, the system will behave normally until another AVAST update. Not every update causes a problem. In fact, most don't, but 4 times in the last month I've had to recover using the above procedure.
A Google search on this issue reveals that I'm not the only one with this problem. If you're running XP 64-bit and looking for anti-virus software, you might do well to look at something other than AVAST.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
3D Model Rapidform XOR Certified
3D Model Rapidform XOR Certified
I just got word that I'm certified in Rapidform XOR. I'm not completely sure what the certification means other than that I passed the 2.5 hour long on-line proficiency test. The test was also a prerequisite for attending the advanced training classes at this year's Rapidform Success conference, which I did.
So if I was already certified before I took the advanced classes...
I just got word that I'm certified in Rapidform XOR. I'm not completely sure what the certification means other than that I passed the 2.5 hour long on-line proficiency test. The test was also a prerequisite for attending the advanced training classes at this year's Rapidform Success conference, which I did.
So if I was already certified before I took the advanced classes...
Thursday, April 21, 2011
3D Model Rapidform Success
3D Model Rapidform Success
I just got back from the Rapidform Success 2011 conference in Denver where I completed the Rapidform Advanced XOR training - great experience, learned a lot. I was impressed with the software before and I’m even more impressed now.
Rapidform XOR is software for processing 3D scan data. Rapidform uses the Parasolid modeling kernel and creates parametric solid CAD models. The modeling tools are comparable to the major CAD packages plus the software has great tools for processing scan data.
I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned...
I just got back from the Rapidform Success 2011 conference in Denver where I completed the Rapidform Advanced XOR training - great experience, learned a lot. I was impressed with the software before and I’m even more impressed now.
Rapidform XOR is software for processing 3D scan data. Rapidform uses the Parasolid modeling kernel and creates parametric solid CAD models. The modeling tools are comparable to the major CAD packages plus the software has great tools for processing scan data.
I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned...
Sunday, March 27, 2011
3D Model CNC Machining STL
3D Model CNC Machining STL
Many shops are reluctant to machine parts using STL CAD models. Shops that embrace STL have an advantage over those that don't.
I recently surveyed a number of contract manufacturers with CNC machining capabilities. Only one shop responded positively. And they didn't say that they could or did machine from STL, but that they thought they could. I provided them with an STL file of part of an avocado to see if they could tool path it. They sent me a picture of the partial avocado machined from foam. I thought that was a pretty impressive response given that all the other shops either just said "no" or didn't respond.
Why is it important to be able to machine using STL files?
Most additive type rapid prototyping methods (SLA, SLS, FDM, EBM, 3DP, etc.) rely on CAD models in STL format. When going from prototype to production, I think there's an advantage to using the same file for both.
Many 3D laser scanners and X-ray CT scanners output STL files. If the purpose of scanning is to be able to machine a replacement part for a +20 year old aircraft, legacy tooling, patterns, etc, why add the burden of creating solid models from the STL output by the scanners? Why not just machine the STL? The concept is already established in rapid prototyping as "scan to print". If modifications are needed, software like Rapidform's XOR Redesign have tools for modeling with STL.
For more advantages to STL, see Tom Beard's Modern Machine Shop article.
Many shops are reluctant to machine parts using STL CAD models. Shops that embrace STL have an advantage over those that don't.
I recently surveyed a number of contract manufacturers with CNC machining capabilities. Only one shop responded positively. And they didn't say that they could or did machine from STL, but that they thought they could. I provided them with an STL file of part of an avocado to see if they could tool path it. They sent me a picture of the partial avocado machined from foam. I thought that was a pretty impressive response given that all the other shops either just said "no" or didn't respond.
Why is it important to be able to machine using STL files?
Most additive type rapid prototyping methods (SLA, SLS, FDM, EBM, 3DP, etc.) rely on CAD models in STL format. When going from prototype to production, I think there's an advantage to using the same file for both.
Many 3D laser scanners and X-ray CT scanners output STL files. If the purpose of scanning is to be able to machine a replacement part for a +20 year old aircraft, legacy tooling, patterns, etc, why add the burden of creating solid models from the STL output by the scanners? Why not just machine the STL? The concept is already established in rapid prototyping as "scan to print". If modifications are needed, software like Rapidform's XOR Redesign have tools for modeling with STL.
For more advantages to STL, see Tom Beard's Modern Machine Shop article.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
3D Model of a Hand
3D Model of a Hand
Smooth_On's 'Life Casting Starter Kit' is easy to use and a bit of fun.
Most of the things I replicate are inanimate, like engine head ports or coins (Redesign on a Dime). For things like that, I've used slow setting low shrinkage silicone rubber. For living things you need something a bit quicker and safer. Just to try it out, I purchased a kit from Reynolds Advanced Materials and made a plaster reproduction of my hand. It was pretty straight forward - once I read ALL of the directions. The first attempt didn't work because the materials were too warm and set up before I could get my hand in. The folks at Reynolds were very understanding and helpful.
The second attempt went better, but I had a few air bubbles in the plaster. I scanned the plaster replica with my ZScanner 800 and the voids were easily fixed using Rapidform XOR. You can download a free copy of the STL file, just click on the hand and select download.
I expect my next attempt to give much better results.
Smooth_On's 'Life Casting Starter Kit' is easy to use and a bit of fun.
Most of the things I replicate are inanimate, like engine head ports or coins (Redesign on a Dime). For things like that, I've used slow setting low shrinkage silicone rubber. For living things you need something a bit quicker and safer. Just to try it out, I purchased a kit from Reynolds Advanced Materials and made a plaster reproduction of my hand. It was pretty straight forward - once I read ALL of the directions. The first attempt didn't work because the materials were too warm and set up before I could get my hand in. The folks at Reynolds were very understanding and helpful.
The second attempt went better, but I had a few air bubbles in the plaster. I scanned the plaster replica with my ZScanner 800 and the voids were easily fixed using Rapidform XOR. You can download a free copy of the STL file, just click on the hand and select download.
I expect my next attempt to give much better results.
Friday, February 11, 2011
3D Model Replicator
3D Model Replicator
Unlike the Replicator in the fictional Star Trek universe, today’s Additive Manufacturing (AM) machines can’t produce foods, drinks or electronic gizmos. But some of today’s machines can produce parts out of plastics, resins and even metals with little more than the press of a button.
Conventional manufacturing processes are typically subtractive and start with a piece of material that’s bigger than the desired part and then remove the excess to reveal the finished part. The waste, the bits and pieces removed, can often be recycled, but at some expense. AM processes start with nothing and build the finished part with little or no waste.
AM encompasses a number of manufacturing processes including:
* Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
* Electron beam melting (EBM)
* Selective laser sintering (SLS)
* Stereolithograpghy (SL)
* 3D printing (3DP)
As some of the names imply, some of the processes require expensive high tech equipment and highly trained technicians. But some of the processes, like 3D printing, are becoming simple enough to be used in high school classrooms. Relatively inexpensive kits are available that allow building a personal 3D printer today much like kits of the 1970’s allowed building personal computers.
To print a part, two things are required; a 3D printer and a computer 3D model of the part to be printed, usually in STL format. The STL file is loaded into the printer’s software, the software ‘cuts’ the 3D model into thin slices and directs the print head to deposit each slice in sequence. Just like Star Trek, the user pushes a button and a part appears, albeit much more slowly than in the movies. With ever continuing advances in AM technology, the time may not, in fact, be too far distant when, rather than go to a store to buy a widget, we simply download a 3D model file for a widget and print it on our version of a Replicator.
Unlike the Replicator in the fictional Star Trek universe, today’s Additive Manufacturing (AM) machines can’t produce foods, drinks or electronic gizmos. But some of today’s machines can produce parts out of plastics, resins and even metals with little more than the press of a button.
Conventional manufacturing processes are typically subtractive and start with a piece of material that’s bigger than the desired part and then remove the excess to reveal the finished part. The waste, the bits and pieces removed, can often be recycled, but at some expense. AM processes start with nothing and build the finished part with little or no waste.
AM encompasses a number of manufacturing processes including:
* Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
* Electron beam melting (EBM)
* Selective laser sintering (SLS)
* Stereolithograpghy (SL)
* 3D printing (3DP)
As some of the names imply, some of the processes require expensive high tech equipment and highly trained technicians. But some of the processes, like 3D printing, are becoming simple enough to be used in high school classrooms. Relatively inexpensive kits are available that allow building a personal 3D printer today much like kits of the 1970’s allowed building personal computers.
To print a part, two things are required; a 3D printer and a computer 3D model of the part to be printed, usually in STL format. The STL file is loaded into the printer’s software, the software ‘cuts’ the 3D model into thin slices and directs the print head to deposit each slice in sequence. Just like Star Trek, the user pushes a button and a part appears, albeit much more slowly than in the movies. With ever continuing advances in AM technology, the time may not, in fact, be too far distant when, rather than go to a store to buy a widget, we simply download a 3D model file for a widget and print it on our version of a Replicator.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)