Rapid Prototyping

AAA

TECHNOLOGY

The Center for Rapid Prototyping is focused on commercializing technologies related to ultrasonic sensing for injection molding processes, and physical and virtual geometric modeling for computer aided design.

The Center has been working on multiple projects, including:

  • Machining techniques that allow the prototyping of
    geometric objects of arbitrary complexity on a 3 axis CNC
    mill with limited tools and little operator skill required
  • A series of new sensors and controls for improved polymer processing
  • Personal Prototyping System (PPS) that makes rapid prototyping affordable for small companies and perhaps even the average consumer
  • Low cost 3-D scanning technologies that make the acquisition of 3-D geometric data practical and affordable for reverse engineering, medical imaging/reconstruction, etc
  • A device that is capable of producing very large prototypes (Shapemaker)
  • A photopolymer-based technique to create prototypes in a single step (Inverse Tomographic Construction)
  • New micro and nano-scale polymer manufacturing
    techniques have been developed, including a micro-forging technique and a nanoscale injection molding
    machine.
CENTER NEWS
 
HIGHLIGHTS
 
  • Production of the first micro-scale injection molded parts
  • Completion and testing of a production-
    type prototype high temperature ultrasound transducer
    and control system
  • Production and test marketing of
    individualized replicas of human faces captured in a polymer based collectible
SPIN OUT COMPANIES

 

BENEFITING COMPANIES
  • Optima Development
CENTER'S WEBSITE
 
CONTACT INFORMATION
 Charles Thomas
(801) 585-6939
cthomas@eng.utah.edu