In the final two episodes of Let’s Go Design Project 2, we used a design tool that's generating a lot of interest in fields outside of design: 3D printing. For some of us, these rapid prototyping machines have been a hugely useful resource in the design process for quite some time. However, some recent advances in technology have made 3D printing more cost-affordable and easier to use on a regular basis.
Since we weren't actually building the multisport practice cage, we really relied on the machines we have here at SolidWorks to show off the final design, as well as make key design decisions. Rapid prototyping of the cage gave the team a chance to really visualize the dimensions and adjust to account for more realistic scenarios.
For example, we initially found that the opponents we had mounted against the walls of the cage didn't really provide the simulated experience we were intending. The team moved the players to the roof of the cage, where they would hang down into the practice space and could have more overall movement--providing a more well-rounded game experience. You’ll see this adjustment in the final design showcased within the last episode.
On this project in particular, we were able to use 3D printing to drive the final touches for the completed design. The ability to visualize the cage, even in smaller proportions, changed the initial impression of the design. There were some limitations to not having a fully-constructed mechanism, which is why the design team also used SolidWorks software to simulate a walkthrough using a computer model. Using these two elements in tandem helped us envision changes to the model without impacting the final fabrication of the cage.
Being able to visualize as many elements as possible on a design through software and rapid prototyping with 3D printing reduces the risk for errors in a final product. These tools only help advance the overall field of design and give us, as the buliders, the opportunity to move outside of typical design limitations and focus on what’s most important to us: innovation and creativity.
How are you using rapid prototyping and 3D printing? What advances do you think are coming next to 3D printing and design? Leave us your thoughts in the comments section.
P.s. - Don't forget to visit the Let's Go Design website to vote for this project's MVP!
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