It all starts with a design - a 3D solid modeling design that is!

Rapid Prototyping and "Rapid Modeling" have progressed dramatically in the last several years, with excellent automated model "printing" machines produced by leading rapid product development suppliers such as 3D Systems and Solidscape.

Models communicate form - communicating design intent to intended customers, to market focus groups, to suppliers, and to retailers.They are superior tools compared to traditional methods of demonstrating a design to others - such as a 2-dimensional drawing or sketch, or an on-screen CAD view. No 2-dimensional visual aid will provide the impact and excitement that a 3-dimensional, highly accurate and precise physical model offers.

Models typically do not possess sufficient mechanical properties for many functional testing requirements. For any requirement where material choice needs to match an end-use production material such as ABS, polypropylene, polyethylene or other plastic or metal - a prototype will be required. Learn more about prototypes here, or call CadBlu to discuss how our 3D Factory Service Bureau can produce a functional prototype for you.

In addition to 3D printer technologies, Roland Benchtop Milling Systems are also used to mill models from modeling or tooling wax. These models can also be used for investment casting once you have shown your model around and received the necessary feedback prior to production!

CadBlu provides an extensive selection of 3D printer systems, technologies and vendors - offering you the right solution for virtually any printing need you may have. Give us a call to discuss!