Posts Tagged &quot;CAD&quot;

3D Printing/Rapid Prototyping, Manufacturing, Startups

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Over the last five years hardware startups have found it easier to find their footing, reach customers and develop a product without “breaking the bank”. The transforming business landscape for hardware startups can be attributed to advances in technology. Where it once took thousands of dollars for a digital design and prototyping alone, today it can be completed at a fraction of the cost. Below are three technologies that have increased in usability and popularity, and in doing so, transformed the way startups are built.

Digital Designs

3D digital designs are allowing startups the freedom of testing and design validation before building a prototype. While designing a product is a trial-and-error process, digital designs allow you to quickly navigate this stage and settle on a final design that meets both your customers’ needs and manufacturing requirements.

Digital designs speed up the product design process, and ensure a smooth transition into the manufacturing phase. With DFM (design for manufacturability) in mind you can design a product that will increase your manufacturing efficiency while saving you both time and money.

Additive Manufacturing

No list related to technology would be complete without the mention of 3D printing. This technology is the “golden boy” of engineering and product design at the moment—and rightfully so. This single technology has shifted supply chains, disrupted the traditional manufacturing process and has allowed startups the freedom of iteration at a reasonable cost.

What exactly is 3D printing? It is defined as, “the action or process of making a physical object from a three-dimensional digital model, typically by laying down many thin layers of a material in succession.” As the material selection continues to expand, so does the application use for additive manufacturing. 3D printing at one time was used specifically for prototyping, and while this is still where it is the most popular, it is moving into the manufacturing domain with short-run production.

Crowdfunding

Starting a business once required bootstrapping or venture capital investment; however, crowdfunding has changed all of this. A well designed product, coupled with a carefully curated crowdfunding campaign, can garnish unprecedented funding to launch your business. Kickstarter and Indiegogo have helped launch some of the most innovative startups.

Crowdfunding might not be the right fit for every startup or every product, but if your idea is a nice fit for this type of funding support, you could be looking at significant help in manufacturing and commercializing your product idea.

The cost prohibitive nature of starting a business has been on the decline and now more than ever, people with an innovative idea can make their product dream a reality.

“When you find an idea that you just can’t stop thinking about, that’s probably a good one to pursue.” — Josh James, Omniture CEO and co-founder

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

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3D CAD: Exploration & Iteration

May 25, 2017

3D CAD, Startups

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At its most simple level, the engineering discipline is about exploration and iteration—which are the two principles computer-aided design (CAD) is built upon. CAD has come a long way from the time when its primary use was to document finalized drawings. Where once CAD was a final step in the design process—today, it is a valuable first step. If you are not using CAD from the initial design stage, you are missing out on some of the most helpful aspects of the program.

Design Iterations

When it comes to designing, iterations are both helpful and inevitable. How often does our first design actually become the final design? Many inventors have an idea of what they want their final product to look like, but often times this initial design idea has to be modified to account for usability and manufacturing. With 3D CAD you can explore a seemingly endless array of design options without the need of “starting from scratch” for each iteration.

Explore the Design Possibilities

Coming up with the best possible design of a product is a trial-and-error process. You try one approach, when it fails, you try a different approach, and so forth until you come up with the best possible design. The features many CAD programs have today allow you to quickly navigate this trial and error stage while honing in on a final design that will meet all needed specifications.

By using a 3D digital design process, we are able to create designs and validate them with up to 95% certainty that they will work before even building a prototype. -Collin Kobayashi, President & Chief 3D Officer of 3D Innovations

Two valuable CAD features are parametric design and direct modeling, as detailed below by Autodesk:

“Parametric modeling allows users to build intelligent and reactive sequences of geometries in which engineers gradually capture their design intent. In this case, intelligent and reactive means the capability to create geometric objects that react to each other and behave as they would in the real world, rather than just on a computer. So as you iterate and change your model, the software’s parametric modeling capability maintains consistent relationships between elements.”

“With direct modeling, you manipulate a model’s geometry by pushing, pulling or twisting it. This allows you to focus initially on creating geometry rather than thinking about building features, constraints and design intent into models. You add features and constraints when editing the model, so you don’t have to edit the interim model stages.”

3D CAD lets you get a real sense for the product you are developing. Not only does it speed up product development, but it brings ideas to life at the fraction of the cost of what it takes to prototype. By shifting CAD to the start of the design process, you are opening the door to an array of design possibilities.

Need assistance creating a 3D Digital Design for your product idea? Contact us! Email us at info@3d-innovations.com or give us a call at 808.722.8667. We look forward to talking with you!

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

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3D Academy: 3D Printing & Design Summer Camps

April 20, 2017

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3D Academy, a division of 3D Innovations, has teamed up with Play-Well TEKnologies to host two ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ summer enrichment camps for students.

“We need to embrace technology to make learning more engaging. Because when students are engaged and they are interested, that’s where learning takes place.” -Unknown

This camp is a perfect introduction to design and engineering. For the design aspect of the camp, students will have the opportunity to create their own LEGO component, and in the second half of the camp, they will hone their engineering skills by creating motorized and architectural projects with LEGOS. This hands-on approach is not only fun and interactive, it also makes the abstract design and engineering concepts come to life.

*View photos from the Spring 2017 3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO camp on our Facebook page.

About Our ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ Camp

3D Academy and Play-Well TEKnologies team up to host two 3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO summer camps. Everyday students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home. In the other half of camp, students will take part in Play-Well’s LEGO Engineering program and have access to over 20,000 pieces of LEGO while creating motorized and architectural projects such as Steerable Motorized Gear Cars, Pneumatic Claws, Mechanized Battle Walkers, Conveyor Belt Systems, and Towering Skyscrapers. Students will be introduced to the world of 3D Printing, CAD Design, Engineering, Physics, Architecture and prototyping all while having fun in a LEGO-centric camp environment.

Age Range: Grades 2nd-6th
Location: Manoa Innovation Center (2800 Woodlawn Drive Honolulu, HI)
Dates: June 5-9^th and July 31-August 4th / 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Price: $295 for 5 day Camp

Note: We keep class sizes small, so they do fill up quickly.

About 3D Academy

3D Academy, a division of 3D Innovations, specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM Education. 3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project-based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences. Learn more about 3D Academy on our website.

If you have an upcoming camp and would like to inquire about the educational resources and hands-on activities we provide, please send an e-mail to info@3d-innovations.com

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn today

3D Academy Event: 3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO (March 20-24th)

February 8, 2017

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Our 3D Academy and Play-Well TEKnologies have teamed up once again to host a 3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO enrichment camp for students. This camp is a perfect introduction to design and engineering. For the design aspect of the camp, students will have the opportunity to create their own LEGO component, and in the second half of the camp they will hone their engineering skills by creating motorized and architectural projects with LEGOS. This hands-on approach is not only fun and interactive, it also makes the abstract design and engineering concepts come to life.

View photos from our last 3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO camp on our Facebook page.

About Our ‘3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO’ Camp

Everyday students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home. In the other half of camp, students will take part in Play-Well’s LEGO Engineering program and have access to over 20,000 pieces of LEGO while creating motorized and architectural projects such as Steerable Motorized Gear Cars, Pneumatic Claws, Mechanized Battle Walkers, Conveyor Belt Systems, and Towering Skyscrapers. Students will be introduced to the world of 3D Printing, CAD Design, Engineering, Physics, Architecture and prototyping all while having fun in a LEGO-centric camp environment.

Age Range: Grades 2nd-6th
Location: Manoa Innovation Center (2800 Woodlawn Drive Honolulu, HI)
Date: March 20-24th (M-F, Spring Break) / 9:00am-4:00pm
Price: $290 for 5 day Camp

Have additional questions? Please contact Wrenn Okada at 808.221.4870 or wrenn@play-well.org for more information.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn today

3D Academy: Drone Technology Takes Flight

October 26, 2016

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Drones have been a staple of maker communities for years, however as their popularity grows they are quickly becoming a widespread tool used in both the workplace and schools as well. In an education setting, drones are being used as a hands-on tool to teach STEM subjects; while in the workplace, drones are used as a tool to gather and analyze data. As drones gain in popularity the industry around drone technology is taking shape. For example, last weekend the World Drone Racing Championship took place here in Hawaii and it was the first international drone event held, with over thirty countries represented.

What industries are using drones?

While numerous industries are experimenting with drone technology, the three main industries using drones on a daily basis are: construction, agriculture and real estate. These industries use drones to inspect, survey and photograph. The data collected by drones is allowing businesses to better manage their operations. “From inspecting pipelines and surveying bridges to filming movies and providing farmers with aerial views of their crops, the applications of UAS are virtually limitless and offer a superior way to see what needs to be seen, in less time and at less expense,” said, Brian Wynne, president and CEO of Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).

How are drones used in a school setting?

In an education setting, drone technology is being used to teach a range of subjects while giving students the chance to get hands-on with the technology. Drones are certainly used to teach a variety of engineering principles, however the technology is also used to teach programming, physics (aerodynamics and push/pull lift of rotor), theoretical math concepts and engaging students in discussions about the ethics and the future of drone technology.

How can I learn more about drones?

Our 3D Academy is now offering a ‘Drone Design & Building Workshop’. In our workshop you will learn about the various design aspects of creating your own drone.

Utilizing 3D Design software, create a digital design of the frame and assembly of components. Once designed, the frame can be 3D printed for evaluation and test flights. Each Drone kit comes with all the basic components required to build and fly a drone. Workshop is open to students, teachers, and anyone who wants to learn about designing and building drones.

Interested in learning more about our Drone Workshop? Please contact us at info@3d-innovations.com or by phone at 808.722.8667.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn today

3D Academy Event: 3D Printing & CAD Design Using LEGO (October 10-14th)

October 10, 2016

3D Innovations

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3D Printing and CAD Camp Today marks the first day of our collaborative “3D Printing and CAD Design using LEGO” event with Play-Well TEKnologies. Our 3D Academy team is excited to kickoff this event and to teach engineering and design principals to students through interactive play.

This is a week-long camp where students will learn the fundamentals of 3D Printing, CAD Design and Spatial Environments to create their own custom and one-of-a-kind LEGO component to take home.

What is Play-Well TEKnologies?

Play-Well TEKnologies hosts LEGO-inspired engineering classes for kids (Kindergarten through 8^th grade).

A little more about Play-Well TEKnologies:

We teach approximately 100,000 students per year. We run our engineering programs in approximately 23 states, as well as in France.
We have outstanding instructors. They teach year-round and make the curriculum their own, so that each program is a uniquely fun experience.
We bring A LOT of LEGO®. With over 20,000 pieces in each class/camp, and hundreds of projects, there is no limit to what you can build.
We teach through play, explore, solve problems, and express ourselves through LEGO. Our curriculum is designed by engineers and refined by teachers, but the kids just think it’s fun!

What is 3D Academy?

Our 3D Academy is a division of 3D Innovations and specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM education.

3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences.

We will be sharing event updates and photos throughout the week on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Also, keep up-to-date on future events by checking out our 3D Academy website.

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn today

3D Academy: Bridging The Gap Between Education & Industry

October 5, 2016

3D Innovations

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We have been hard at work revamping our 3D Academy website and invite you to check it out. As an engineering and product development firm we understand the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education and want to help students actively engage with these subjects while fostering a love of learning.

Meet Lulu! The introductory video on the 3D Academy website follows Lulu’s journey from high school student to mechanical engineer. Learn about the programs she participated in and how 3D Academy helped her harness her talent and realize her dreams.

What is 3D Academy?

Our 3D Academy is a division of 3D Innovations and specializes in developing and integrating industry technologies with STEM education.

drone academy 3D 3D Academy promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education programs that integrate 3D Technology into K–12, as well as university classrooms. Using hands-on and project based learning strategies, we have been effective in providing students with opportunities to excel in the areas of STEM and to integrate industry applications into their learning experiences.

Our core program utilizes 3D CAD and takes students through the entire design process (design, prototyping and manufacturing). When integrated into school curriculum, our STEM education programs provides students with opportunities to solve real world design problems, engage with industry standard technology, and transform concepts into reality. Our education programs have been integrated with many robotics programs such as FIRST, UROV, BotBall, and First Lego League. Programs are both customizable and scalable to meet various applications and grade levels.

Education Programs We Provide

The programs we offer bridge the gap between education and industry. Our hands on learning approach invite students to tackle a real-world problem, test theories, build upon these theories and design their own solutions. We teach them the skills needed to succeed and watch as they put these skills to use in their everyday activities.

Digital Media + IET + Engineering Academies: Learn 3D modeling programs such as SketchUp, Solidworks, and Autodesk products to design, develop, and build digital designs. Transform digital designs into engineering projects to further develop STEM skills.
Robotics + Project Based Learning + Drones: Utilize the Engineering Design Process to design custom robotics systems for competitions such as Vex/FIRST Robotics, and others. Learn about electro-mechanical system design using Drones and other Project Based Learning activities.
3D Printing + K-12 Programs + 3D Printing Curriculum: Get students excited about STEM. Use 3D Printing technologies to integrate with new or existing projects that let students develop their own parts. Our projects can be integrated for a wide range of grade levels and topics or use our specific curriculum to focus on 3D Printing.
Custom Program: We are also available to help in the development of a custom program to meet the needs of your students and teachers.

Experience the benefits of STEM education and see what 3D Academy can do for you. Contact us today at info@3d-innovations.com or by phone at 808.722.8667

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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn today

3D Innovations: A Top 100 Twitter Account in Honolulu

September 26, 2016

3D Innovations

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