Eureka Magazine interviews IDC Model’s Peter Pendergast on the benefits of 3D Printing
Paul Fanning from Eureka Magazine recently interviewed IDC Models’ Peter Pendergast on how 3D Printing has changed the way product design and development takes place.
Peter explains how technology has developed over the years since he first started out in the industry. In his early days he recalls how 10 model makers were required to hand make a single component whereas today the process is much quicker and more efficient with the implementation of rapid prototyping machinery such as, Viper Stereolithography machines.
At IDC Models the 3D Printing machine is used to some extent as a design tool. IDC’s designers/engineers work on developing a prototype design during the day and leave the machine to ‘grow’ the model overnight, which means they can quickly get an idea of whether their design is feasible. This process has been very cost effective as the team can make changes to their design quickly without going over budget.
Eureka magazine goes on to question the future of rapid prototyping asking Peter whether he predicts a rise in the use of tabletop FDM machines in design offices. He says: "It depends on which way the design office goes. There are lots of tabletop FDM machines that are very good for having a look, but in terms of surface finish and accuracy it's not great and has limited uses..''
From IDC’s experience 3D printing is effective if expertly managed. There are some 3D prints that you simply can’t manufacture which is why it is important to have the traditional model makers offering advice to designers to prevent them from making costly mistakes.