Rapid Prototyping

During a typical product design review for a new project, Klann will often suggest revising certain features to simplify part design in order to improve moldability. This can also have the advantage of reducing mold and part costs. During this review process, it is essential to have a proper CAD solid model file.

A natural question is how will the part designed in the CAD solid model file actually look and feel and/or how will it mate with other parts in an assembly?

A rapid prototype model is a very accurate 3D representation of what the molded part will be. You can weigh it, hold it in your hand, fit it with other parts, etc.—in short, most anything you would do with the actual molded part. Any need for changes can be addressed at this early stage, well before the mold is started, thereby avoiding costly tooling changes and delivery delays down the road.

Key benefits of rapid prototyping are:

• Improve design validation
• Evaluate form, fit, function, and aesthetics at an early stage
• Fast turnaround - the model part is typically available in a week or less
• Inexpensive - typically $200-$600 per part. Cost depends on size, geometry, etc.
• Cost savings - detecting and correcting design errors before starting mold building could save thousands of $ later on.
• Faster project turnaround - mold modifications are not only expensive, but they also eat up valuable time.

Specifications