3D Rapid Prototyping

Advances in 3D Rapid Prototyping

The latest developments in 3D Rapid Prototyping (RP) technology enable parts to be fabricated from a wide range of composite materials.  This development enables the printing of parts with physical and mechanical properties previously unobtainable.

For example, earlier this year the superhero movie ‘Iron Man’2 was made possible by using the latest advances in 3D RP printing to create the iconic Iron Man suit.  The body armor was in fact ‘print-to-wear’ pieces that came directly out of an Objet 3D printer.

Formero also utilises the Objet’s PolyJet Matrix technology used for the Iron Man suit.  
The real benefit of this new technology is to reduce the cost of product development cycles and dramatically shorten time-to-market of new products  Formero manufactures 3D Objet Printing for  products and parts in many industries, such as  Medical / Medical Devices, Dental,  Education, Consumer Electronics, Automotive and consumer goods globally.

Rex, the robotic exoskeleton (pictured right) is another 
example of innovative 3D Rapid Prototyping technology.

Developed by Rex Bionics a NZ technology company, their
creation of ‘Rex’ is the worlds-first robotic legs to help disabled Individuals walk.

Formero was approached by Rex Bionics to prototype the 
outer skin components which covered the mechanisms of the 
device.  Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technology was 
selected for the leg covers due to its strength and durability.

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is Formero’s latest ground breaking RP technology that delivers digitally manufactured parts in metal.  Parts with free form surfaces, hollowed internal sections and light weight honeycomb structures are ideal for SLM machining.