Dimension ABS Thermoplastics Applications:

Proof of Concept

With a Dimension 3D printer, you can explore multiple concepts quickly and affordably to review with everyone on the design team. As a tool for creating models early in the design process, 3D Printing is a both a faster and more affordable alternative to Rapid Prototyping technology.

Dimension printers cut days and weeks off the design cycle.  Dimension’s ability to produce quick, inexpensive models made of ABS plastic allows designers to efficiently model multiple concepts right from their desktop. 

Outsourcing a prototype takes days or weeks, and can cost $400 or more.  A Dimension Printer could create the same prototype in just hours – for $5 (or even less).

Physical models produced on a Dimension 3D Printer allow everyone on the design team to review concepts.  You get more quality feedback, resulting in a better product.  3D printing allows companies to achieve real time collaboration on a global scale.

 

Functional Testing

Dimension printers create models of ABS plastic that are tough enough to be used as working parts – other 3D printers can’t do that.  That enables you to test form, fit and function - and as many design iterations as you need - right from your desktop.

Compared to models produced with photo chemicals, wax or other forms of 3D printing, Dimension’s ABS prototypes provide a higher level of precision.  Pieces actually snap or fit together.  ABS allows you to build durable and functional prototypes that can withstand rigorous testing and won't warp, shrink or absorb moisture.

ABS models can be drilled, tapped, sanded and painted. ABS is the most commonly used plastic in manufacturing today, used in cell phones, television sets, and the majority of car interiors.

 

Product Cost Reduction

There are many costs involved in developing a new product.  Poor communication, extensive changes and missed deadlines increase costs exponentially throughout each step of the design and development.

A recent Wohlers Industry Report notes that a modest engineering change costing $100 in the concept phase could escalate to a staggering $1,000,000 when the product is in the field.

Dimension 3D Printers allow you to reduce those costs, with better communication, collaboration and design verification throughout the process – in fact, some of our customers have claimed that their Dimension 3D Printer paid for itself in its first project alone.

Product Confidentiality

New products are the lifeblood for any company.  That’s why companies spend millions on security and intellectual property protection.  Any time you send data outside to a service provider, you increase the possibility of a security leak.

A Dimension 3D Printer ensures that the designs you are considering remain secure inside your company.

 

Vacuum Forming

ABS models produced on a Dimension 3D Printer are excellent masters for the vacuum forming process.

Dimension models are used extensively in vacuum forming applications in the automotive industry for trim pieces and a variety of interior components.  Consumer product companies use Dimension models for items ranging from plastic glasses to food containers.

Vacuum forming is also employed in a variety of ways by the aerospace and medical industries.  And of course, it’s widely used in packaging applications.

Marketing Tools

Models made on a Dimension 3D Printer are great marketing tools. Impress your prospects and clients with functional ABS models.

Successful product design requires review and input from many sources.  Dimension 3D models have proven time and time again to be great marketing tools. ABS models can be sanded, painted, and chrome-plated for finished appearance.

Take a look at the front-end loader on this page. This model was printed in multiple pieces using two colors of ABS plastic.  Imagine showing this quality model to a new prospect. You’re able to place a real-life product into someone's hands in a day. Now that's impressive!

 

Product Mockups

With mockups made on a Dimension 3D Printer, you can see your product before ever going into production.  Models can be made within hours and then sanded, painted, tapped and drilled, even chrome plated, to give you a reliable representation of the actual manufactured product.

Mockups also allow you to catch design flaws and make the appropriate adjustments early and often throughout the design process.  In several instances, Dimension 3D Printers paid for themselves right away, by catching a design flaw early in the design process.

Our customers save a lot of time and money using their Dimension 3D printers for creating product mockups.