3-D Scanner+Printer

[aeronca65t]

I have a 3-D printer at work that I use all the time.
And we have four full-size CNC machines (plus two small table top jobs).

But I've been waiting for 3-D scanners to come down in price. And now apparently, they have.

~This Video~ (from Leno's Garage), is well worth viewing, especially if you're into machine tools and making stuff.

 

[GregW]

The fact that the printer produces complex moving parts is awesome. That's the first time I've seen that particular function.

 

[tomshobby]

I wonder what they use for software to repair originating part flaws in the .stl (Stereolithography) files or if they translate them to a different format first.

 

[PC]

Typically, if you want to make changes rather than just make an exact copy, you’d import the scan data into a 3D CAD program. From there you can do whatever you want with it.

The scan just tells you what the part “is” but can’t tell you what it’s “supposed to be” or what you “want it to be.” When making one part to replace another in a specific engine or car or machine or whatever that may be just fine, especially on a part that was originally fitted in place anyway.

But if want to make a general purpose replacement part you need to look at the existing part and try to figure out what the original designer meant it to be (or look at the population of mating parts and figure out what would work best for all of them). You need to estimate if the part is worn, modified or was manufactured on the outside of its tolerances.

If you aren’t trying to make a historical reproduction you may want to improve the part to correct known deficiencies or take advantage of some modern material or fabrication process.

Those still require a skilled and knowledgeable designer to do some thinking.


pc.

 

[PAUL161]

What an awesome invention! I wonder if it'll copy an MG and make me a new one?

 

[bgbassplyr]

Yeah! The same way Johnny Cash got his caddy....one piece at a time.