The world premiere of new 3D scanner MICRON3d Stereo 20Mpix with a new function of a direct projection of the color map of deviation onto the object.

21st Century brings us to the new epoch of revolutionary Industry 4.0 applications, smart factories, automated production solutions, and machine learning. Astounding technological development is a real challenge for manufacturers, who needs to adapt to the changing trends and high demands of quality standards. For this reason, SMARTTECH3D enters this new era with a completely new system and software with advanced functions dedicated to quality control which can help in 100% quality control on the production line.

The future of metrology is in 3D optical measurement, that’s why SMARTTECH3D released a new scanner MICRON3D green stereo with two 20 Mpix cameras,  the highest resolution 3D scanner available in the gloabal market. By incorporating omnidirectional fringes projection, the new scanner is capturing precise information about the geometries with automatic edge sharpness representation and noise reduction. This solution allows to significantly reduce the time of measurement and the creation of a high quality and high resolution triangle mesh of the scanned objects. The device works with the technology of structured green LED light with a wavelength of 520 nm to reduce the impact of external lighting changes. The 3D scanner is made of durable and sealed full carbon fiber housing with HEPA filters to reduce the impact of temperature changing, and dust. Furthermore, the measurement is fully contactless and can be automated, which enables checking a high volume of parts and to be inspected under stable metrological conditions.

The device has new SMARTTECH3Dmeasure software module for quality control which feature: importing CAD file and generating a color map of deviations in one software (based on 3D compare scans with the CAD model) as well as export the results as reports in PDF. Users can generate personalized reports in PDF with annotations includes acceptable tolerances, and share the results with end-customers. What is important – SMARTTECH3D has a new function of a direct projection of the color map of deviation onto the object. Thanks to this the user can easily locate any deviations directly on the real object.

Combined with a new MICRON3D green stereo this is a perfect tool for quality control, inspection, and fast prototyping. Reliable results, 2,5 sec for each measurement sequence, and a whole range of functionalities allow you to automate any enterprise with metrological accuracy. From now on, it is no longer necessary to use external programs for inspection.

SMARTTECH3D has appointed Kadkraft Systems Pvt. Ltd. (www.kadkraft.com) as its sole distributor in India. Kadkraft Systems for past over 30 years has been providing engineering design and manufacturing simulation solutions to leading automotive and industrial machinery companies located all over India. To know more about the possibilities of instant quality control of any objects, please call on +91 98140 21311 or write to contact@kadkraft.com

About SMARTTECH3D

SMARTTECH3D is a recognized Polish manufacturer of optical 3D scanners in the world. Since almost 20 years of its presence on the market, the Company has been focused on delivering metrologically tested 3D scanners for education, industry and museums. SMARTTECH3D offer includes a full range of professional non-contact measuring devices for various applications, quality control, and reverse engineering software. SMARTTECH provides design-implementation services for advanced machine vision systems and expert 3D measurement services. Satisfied customers include NASA, Boeing, Lufthansa, Orlen, KRONES, Adidas, Volvo, BMW, US Army as many universities around the world.

Invitation

MAYSVILLE, KY, USA, May 27, 2021 – Carlson Software released Precision 3D Hydro and Topo 2021, a major update to its 3D design environment software which now provides a full set of commands for three major design functions in hydrology. These include: culvert design (round and rectangular), channel design with automated channel liner selection, and, most importantly, full storm sewer design. Sanitary and utility lines such as water and gas lines can also be drawn and displayed.

Today’s 2021 release extends the power of P3D Hydro by adding full storm sewer design capability. Extending the capabilities provided in Carlson’s CAD-based Hydrology software, P3D Hydro 2021 makes storm sewer design 3D and visual, with an expanding library of correctly dimensioned inlets and headwalls that insert along curbs and at low points with real-world accuracy. The curb snap capability, shown below, allows for inlet insertion from a distance along any curb line. The green curb snap extends beyond the cursor in both directions along the curb and ensures an accurate snap, following the tangents and curves of the curb line through direct analysis of the digital terrain model.

P3D Hydro displays symbols for inlets, seen below are open throat, manhole, and “combo” inlet types.

An additional “diamond snap” allows the user to connect to any existing structure, both from an upstream to downstream position, as shown below, or as a starting point for continuation of the storm sewer system.

An extensive library of inlets, manholes and headwalls continues to expand based on user needs and inputs. Controls exist for insertion points, positions for 3D placement for water entry, and “sag” and “on grade” water intake parameters. Shown below are 3 inlet types often used in Kentucky.

It is good engineering practice to limit gutter spread in storm sewer design to prevent ponding and vehicle hydroplaning. Precise analysis of gutter spread, both in sag and on grade, assists the user in minimizing the number of inlets used to meet maximum gutter spread requirements.  There is even a command to launch storm sewer design and place inlets at the maximum interval down a length of road with pipe lengths set by either maximum pipe length (such as 300 feet or 100 meters) or by the inlet location that matches allowable gutter spread, whichever pipe length is less. In this way, with one click to place the first inlet, an entire series of inlets trace along the gutter line automatically, with associated pipes. Pipes can then be sized based on peak flow analysis using any desired storm event (10-year, 25-year, 50-year, 100-year).

Although P3D Hydro 2021 focuses on storm sewer design, you can import sanitary sewer networks and utility networks (such as gas lines or water lines) from the Carlson Hydrology module. These networks display in 3D and show pipe material types (corrugated metal, concrete, PVC, etc.) allowing visualization of multiple pipes by viewing from underneath or through the surface using transparency. Another new feature in P3D Hydro 2021 is collision analysis, both in terms of pipe separation vertically as well as horizontally. Shown below is an example of 2 pipe crossing clearances being reported.

P3D Hydro 2021 is virtually the fastest way to design storm sewers available today. Pick, place, analyze, study for collisions, revise, extend, change inlet type, then send to CAD as a stored Carlson “.sew” file. With DynamicCAD, which can draw in CAD simultaneously with the design in P3D, all inlets will be plotted in CAD, placed perfectly on the curb lines, faithfully representing both open throat, grate, and “combo” style inlets as seen below, right down to the number of openings in the grate.

The combination of P3D Hydro 2021 and Carlson Hydrology for deliverables simplifies storm sewer design and makes it accessible to interns and new employees in your organization. It is fun, 3D, accurate, and real. Try it today.

A pair of informative 5-minute overview videos demonstrating P3D’s range of features are available on this playlist, and more videos will follow, covering all aspects of P3D Hydro 2021.

Carlson’s Precision 3D Topo 2021 also gains many new features and greater compatibility with the 2021 release, including support for E57, KML/KMZ, LandXML 2.0, 3D PDF and OBJ export, and the ability to export grid points directly for surface creation in other software applications.

More information about Carlson Precision 3D 2021 is available here. Contact your local Carlson representative or Carlson dealer at www.carlsonsw.com/purchase or call Carlson at 606-564-5028.

About Carlson Software Inc.

Carlson Software Inc. specializes in CAD design software, field data collection, laser measurement, and machine control products for the civil engineering, surveying, GIS, construction, and mining industries worldwide, providing one-source technology solutions for the entire project cycle. Carlson Software is headquartered in Maysville, Ky., U.S.A., with branch offices in Boston, Mass.; Almere, The Netherlands; Melbourne, Australia; Ottawa, Canada; and York, England.

LUBECK, Germany, May 27, 2021 – Additive Manufacturing pioneer SLM Solutions has announced a partnership with Solukon for de-powdering systems. Within the scope of the partnership, SLM Solutions will utilize Solukon’s flagship machine, the SFM-AT800-S, for the post-processing of parts in their application center in Lübeck, Germany. Solukon’s depowdering system offers fast and efficient removal of metal powder for large applications of up to 600 mm height. Both companies want to intensify their collaboration and work on joint projects.

The post-processing of components in the Additive Manufacturing process is a significant step. Due to complex geometric shapes and, for example, internal cooling channels or internal structures, depowdering can become complicated and time-consuming. In addition, users are faced with risks including explosion, occupational health, labor costs, powder recovery, cleaning quality and process repeatability.

Solukon tackles these issues with its unique SPR technology (Smart Powder Recuperation). The result? Its depowdering systems remove loose powder from metal laser melted parts within a sealed process chamber, using adjustable vibration and automated two-axis part rotation while recovering superfluous powder. Through programmable rotation of the build plate in two axes, unfused metal build material is completely removed from complex channels and geometries, meaning a significant increase in efficiency, safety and quality – all while saving on costs.

Gerhard Bierleutgeb, EVP Global Services & Solutions at SLM Solutions says: “We are excited to work together with Solukon, a preferred supplier of powder removal and processing systems. This alliance brings added value to our customers for their internal manufacturing processes and is an important step towards holistic factory planning. We particularly like the flexibility of the machine. Not only can it be used with different materials, but the processing of a wide range of parts is possible. We can also easily depowder large components that have been manufactured on the SLM800.”

Andreas Hartmann, CEO of Solukon, considers the collaboration with SLM Solutions an important step for both parties. “This partnership strengthens our market position and offers a new perspective to customers. Customers who have decided on the purchase of an SLM Solutions system can now also rely on support from a competent partner in depowdering,” adding that “Solukon systems are compatible with all additive manufacturing systems.”

About Solukon

Solukon Maschinenbau GmbH is a German high-quality supplier of powder removal and processing systems for metal and polymer Additive Manufacturing. Founded in 2015, the company, located in Augsburg, has extensive experience in the development of AM systems and related peripheral equipment, and offers a full range of industrial powder processing systems. Solukon products meet the highest functionality and safety standards and are approved for safe and reliable removal of tough-to-handle and reactive materials such as titanium and aluminum.

Solukon is present on four continents. The systems are trusted by leading manufactures of 3D printing systems, like SLM Solutions, by institutions like NASA and CERN as well as by companies like Siemens and ArianeGroup.

About SLM Solutions:

SLM Solutions is an integrated solutions provider and metal additive manufacturing partner. The company takes a vested interest in customer’s long-term success with metal additive manufacturing. Robust Selective Laser Melting machines optimize fast, reliable and cost-efficient part production and SLM Solutions’ experts work with customers at each stage of the process to provide support which elevates use of the technology and ensures their return on investment is maximized. A publicly traded company, SLM Solutions Group AG is headquartered in Germany, with offices in Canada, China, France, India, Italy, Russia, Singapore and the United States.

NEWPORT BEACH, CA, USA, May 27, 2021 – MSC Software, a part of Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division, announced that it will host an eight-part webinar series covering industry-shaping technology trends for the wind power industry. The Technology Tailwinds series will start on Thursday, May 27 at 10 a.m. EDT with Taking on Wind Energy Challenges presented by Dr. Xiaobing Hu, Director of Applied Solutions at Hexagon. Dr. Hu is a leading engineering consultant and subject matter expert in simulation software. The presentation has a particular focus on current wind energy challenges and how the adoption process can be accelerated with computer-aided engineering (CAE) simulation and data-driven inspection. A Q & A session will follow for additional audience engagement with Dr. Hu. To register for this free webinar, sign up here.

During the webinar, Dr. Hu will address the business and engineering challenges of developing and manufacturing next-generation wind turbines. Since 2007, he has been leading the team in the design and development of multi-MW (up to 11MW+) wind turbine drivetrains globally, and has helped customers achieve over 37 DNVGL certifications for new wind turbine designs. His presentation will connect the dots of solving key issues with comprehensive Hexagon engineering solutions that will improve wind turbine design and operations. For example, Dr. Hu will discuss how to enhance the durability and efficiency of wind turbine systems, while reducing their acoustic impact on the environment.

Each MSC Technology Tailwinds webinar event is designed to inform and update design and CAE engineers, quality inspection professionals, and factory managers involved in wind turbine design, manufacturing, operations, and MRO. The upcoming Hexagon series will focus on trending topics in the wind power industry such as the evolution toward large capacity turbines that will require advances in design, analytics, automation, inspection and maintenance. On a monthly basis, MSC Software will present fresh insights to help navigate the current business windscape through the use of touch point technologies and implementation strategies. Discussions will cover the key technology components and the best practices required to advance this unfolding next-generation of wind turbines systems, and ultimately accelerate clean energy adoption.

This comprehensive webinar series reflects Hexagon’s vision for the future where data is fully and autonomously leveraged so business, industry and humanity can sustainably thrive. The company believes its sustainability journey is determined by the role its products and solutions play in the market, as well as its own processes and actions, to seize the opportunity of our lifetime. To learn more about Hexagon’s five key sustainability focus areas, visit here.

For more information about MSCOne, visit: www.mscsoftware.com/mscone

About Hexagon | MSC Software

Hexagon is a global leader in sensor, software and autonomous solutions. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, and quality across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, safety, and mobility applications.

Our technologies are shaping urban and production ecosystems to become increasingly connected and autonomous – ensuring a scalable, sustainable future.

MSC Software, part of Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division, is one of the ten original software companies and a global leader in helping product manufacturers to advance their engineering methods with simulation software and services. Learn more at www.mscsoftware.com. Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division provides solutions that utilise data from design and engineering, production and metrology to make manufacturing smarter. For more information, visit hexagonmi.com.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 21,000 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 3.8bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.

ANN ARBOR, MI, USA, May 27, 2021 – CIMdata, Inc., the leading global PLM strategic management consulting and research firm, announces the publication of a new eBook focused on the complex problem of managing profitability in the automotive supply chain. This eBook identifies the characteristics of initiatives, solutions, and technologies required to successfully support this critical factor for any company—assuring that their product offerings will be profitable at a winning price. This is especially problematic for automotive suppliers due to complex relationships with their primary customers, the automotive OEMs. Campfire Interactive presents an especially compelling solution suite that enables its customers to win and maintain profitable business. The eBook also documents how several automotive suppliers are using the Campfire solutions to transform their business to new levels of profitability.

All companies operating in a supply chain need to understand the profitability of their product offerings before bidding on each new project. However, computing profitability is a complex undertaking that must consider much more than the simple “Profit = Revenue – Costs” formula. Revenue and cost are themselves financial calculations influenced by numerous variables. This is particularly true when the product’s OEM changes requirements frequently and applies continuous pressure to reduce costs—such is the case in the automotive supply chain. Suppliers are consequently forced to continually analyze profitability on current products while anticipating how to increase profitability on future products. Traditional enterprise solutions such as PLM, CRM, SCM, and ERP certainly provide information germane to the problem, but each lacks the breadth of data and functional capabilities needed to solve the profitability puzzle. This eBook makes the case that Campfire’s solution provides both the ability to aggregate the required data from other enterprise sources (including the ubiquitous Microsoft Excel), as well as external industry data sources, and process that data to provide unique capabilities to manage and optimize profitability.

Mr. Stan Przybylinski, Vice President, CIMdata, stated that “Automotive OEMs have significant buying power, allowing them to call the tune for their Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, making them rapidly submit detailed proposals developed with little solid information. This is a complex multivariate problem that involves functions and systems across the value chain. Campfire Interactive leveraged their deep automotive supply chain knowledge to create a purpose-built solution that is helping leading automotive suppliers manage billions of dollars of booked and pursuit business, helping their customers optimize their business portfolio to maximize their profits.”

Mr. Pradeep Seneviratne, President & CEO of Campfire Interactive, described the CIMdata eBook as an objective source meant for executives pursuing excellence in the area of product profitability management. “We interact daily with automotive supplier executives challenged to manage profitability in what is a highly complex, competitive, and fluid market. Claims from enterprise solutions vendors, such as PLM, ERP, and CRM, cause confusion about the necessary capabilities for a true Product Profitability Management solution. Because CIMdata is a recognized authority within the industry, we invested in this effort with them to educate suppliers on the limitations of traditional enterprise solutions and the advantages of a purpose-built solution from a company focused exclusively on this problem.”

Please download and read the complete eBook at https://www.cimdata.com/en/resources/complimentary-reports-research/white-papers.

TROY, MI, USA, May 26, 2021 – Altair (Nasdaq: ALTR), a global technology company providing solutions in simulation, high-performance computing (HPC), and artificial intelligence (AI) announces the release of its latest simulation solutions, including comprehensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and expanded capabilities in electronic system design (ESD). Updates include all major CFD solutions under a single license, expanded end-to-end electronic system design capability, and seamless access to the cloud.

Altair’s end-to-end electronic system design toolset spans from PCB development and validation to electro-mechanical simulation and antenna placement

“Throughout our 35-year history, Altair has developed and acquired countless specialized technologies to solve even the most challenging CFD problems,” said James R. Scapa, founder and chief executive officer, Altair. “We are proud to have the industry’s most robust CFD offering whose breadth and depth is unparalleled and can efficiently and effectively address a broad range of multidisciplinary challenges.”

Unparalleled breadth of CFD solutions under a single license 

Altair CFD is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing individual tools from multiple software vendors by delivering all major CFD solutions under a single license including:

1. General purpose fluid dynamics and thermal simulation leveraging the Navier-Stokes (NS) method
2. Simulation of oiling, sloshing and mixing with smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH)
3. External aerodynamics simulation using the Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM)
4. Simulation of particle fluid systems with the discrete element modeling (DEM) method
5. Modeling of complex, integrated thermo-fluid systems leveraging Altair’s unique system modeling technology

This ensures engineering teams always have the most appropriate technology available for each application, reducing modeling and product development times. Altair CFD provides advanced capabilities including coupling between several different CFD applications as well as with other applications such as structural analysis, etc.

The new Altair CFD combines external aerodynamics and thermal and turbulence analysis, with oiling and mixing simulation under a single licence

Additionally, the LBM and SPH codes in Altair CFD were written from the ground up using native graphics processing unit (GPU) codes, enabling faster simulations, more design exploration, and improved product performance.

Expanded end-to-end electronic system design capabilities

Altair’s electronic system design toolset has a new thermal management workflow to enhance the design of electronic devices. In addition to the existing Altair SimLab workflows for structural stress, vibration, and drop-test performance, product engineers can now ensure the cooling of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and complete systems to prevent overheating, product reliability issues, or expensive late-stage redesigns.

Smart connected devices increasingly need high-speed memory. Altair PollEx has added signal integrity automation for double-data rate (DDR) memory interfaces, enhancing optimization of DDRx timing, transmission lines, topology, and terminations. Other improvements include additional power integrity simulation and the capability to export PCB layers for thermal management analysis. For more information about the latest enhancements to Altair’s ESD solutions, register for the upcoming “Modern Electronic System Design Webinar Series.”

Zero-download simulation in the cloud with Altair One

Altair One is a single portal for Altair’s products, accessible anywhere via standard workstations, PCs, laptops, and mobile devices. Users can launch simulation applications in the cloud from a single interface with easy access to resources that are on-premises, in the cloud, or a hybrid. Product teams can increase simulation-driven design collaboration by securely uploading, accessing, storing, and managing data using the Altair One drive.

Altair One does not require additional capital expenditures on complex IT and can scale immediately in response to peaks in workload. It also empowers users to provision turnkey, scalable appliance clusters across all major cloud providers including Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, and Google Cloud Platform.

Flexibility is further enhanced by Altair Units, Altair’s patented, subscription-based licensing model, which allows organizations to pay only for what their employees need, when they need it. This includes the new Product Engineer bundle that automates and simplifies complex analysis tasks for multiple physics.

For more information about the latest updates to the Altair simulation suite, visit http://www.altair.com/simulation-2021-1 or register to attend the “Discover Altair CFD” webinar https://web.altair.com/webinar-discover-altair-cfd.

About Altair (Nasdaq: ALTR)

Altair is a global technology company that provides software and cloud solutions in the areas of simulation, high-performance computing (HPC), and artificial intelligence (AI). Altair enables organizations across broad industry segments to compete more effectively in a connected world while creating a more sustainable future. To learn more, please visit www.altair.com.

SCHRAMBERG, Germany, May 26, 2021 – SolidCAM has made an OEM agreement with CIMCO to make CIMCO Edit Professional available with SolidCAM’s software package.

CIMCO Edit Professional is the most popular CNC program editor globally and provides a comprehensive set of essential editing tools necessary for meeting modern CNC program editing demands.

It has no program size limitations and includes CNC code-specific options such as line numbering/renumbering, character handling, and XYZ range finder. It also features math functions, including basic math, rotate, mirror, tool compensation, and translate. CIMCO Edit offers all the functions expected from an editor, including drag-and-drop text editing. Best of all, CIMCO Edit is completely configurable and is adaptable to any existing CNC program editing environment.

CIMCO Edit Professional is now available for SolidCAM 2021 SP1 & InventorCAM 2021 SP1, as well as for SolidCAM 2020 SP5 & InventorCAM 2020 SP5.

CIMCO Edit Professional is easy to use and includes powerful features like file compare, NC-Assistant, Backplot, and  Solid Simulation to improve CNC programmers’ productivity.

For more information, visit https://www.solidcam.com.

ROCK HILL, SC, USA, May 26, 2021 – 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced the addition of four new high-performance, production-capable resins to its Figure 4 portfolio designed specifically for both batch-run, end-use part manufacturing, and prototyping applications. The company has added Figure 4 High Temp 150C FR Black, Figure 4 Tough 65C Black, Figure 4 Tough 60C White, and Figure 4 Rigid Gray that, unlike typical photopolymer resins, feature long-term mechanical performance and stability in indoor and outdoor environments and are suitable for highly complex applications in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive and motorsports, healthcare, industrial goods, and aerospace and defense. These materials are the latest additions to the company’s existing portfolio of Figure 4 high-speed, production-capable 3D printing materials that include rigid, tough, durable, elastomeric, and high heat deflection temperature (HDT). Unlike technologies such as powder binding or fused deposition modeling (FDM), Figure 4 parts feature a similar out-of-printer appearance to injection-molded plastics, with smooth, glossy surfaces and no visible build lines, thus requiring less post-finishing.

Rigid, flame-retardant consumer electronics and aerospace housings printed in Figure 4 High Temp 150C FR Black, for long-lasting production parts requiring UL94V0, FAR25.853, and FAR 23.853 ratings.

Additionally, the company’s latest release of its renowned 3D Sprint software enables high-density part stacking and new strut support structures, which facilitates a 40% improvement in productivity. The complete solution – including the company’s Figure 4 materials and technology, software, and applications expertise – helps 3D Systems’ customers deliver batch runs of tens or even hundreds-of-thousands of high-performance, end-use plastic parts.

Novel Material for High HDT, Flame Retardant Applications

Figure 4 High Temp 150C FR Black is a rigid, halogen-free, fire retardant resin ideal for production plastic parts for aerospace and defense, automotive and motorsports, and consumer electronics applications. This material is UL94 V0 rated at 2mm or 3mm thickness for electrical components and printed circuit board covers and housings. It is also compliant with U.S. Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) 25.853 and FAR Part 23.853 at 3mm thickness, and can be used to produce rigid covers, panels, housings, and small in-cabin parts for transport and commuter aircraft. This material is easy to handle and can be used as supplied without melting or printing at elevated temperatures.

Parts produced with Figure 4 High Temp 150C FR Black delivered mechanical performance and environmental stability for eight years of indoor and one and a half years outdoor per ASTM D4329 and ASTM G194 methods. This environmental stability ensures printed parts remain functional and stable for prolonged durations in indoor and outdoor environments.

Tough, ABS-like Materials for High Load-bearing Production Applications

3D Systems is complementing its Figure 4 portfolio with additional materials uniquely designed to deliver a combination of impact strength, elongation, and tensile strength. Additionally, these materials are engineered for long-term indoor and outdoor mechanical performance and environmental stability. All Figure 4 materials are capable of producing parts with excellent surface quality, accuracy, and repeatability without the need for a secondary thermal cure. The result is faster throughput to part-in-hand.

1. Figure 4 Tough 65C Black possesses high elongation at yield (6.6%) which delivers better snaps and clips. This makes it ideal for applications such as brackets, covers, snap fits, structural and load-bearing parts, and custom fasteners. This material delivers long-term indoor and outdoor stability – for eight years and one and a half years, respectively – positioning it for applications such as automotive and consumer goods parts that must remain functional and stable in indoor and outdoor environments. Figure 4 Tough 65C Black is biocompatible-capable per ISO 10993-5 and is UL94 HB rated for flammability.
2. Figure 4 Tough 60C White, similar in overall performance to the Tough 65C Black, is engineered to address mechanical-load bearing applications such as small snap-fits, brackets, handles and fasteners in consumer products, wearable devices, and general use parts that require details, and accuracy. This material is biocompatible-capable per ISO 10993-5 and ISO 10993-10 and can be sterilized using common methods while maintaining its mechanical properties, color, cytotoxicity, and dimensional stability. This makes it an ideal material to produce tools, handles, and small plastic parts designed for medical uses.

Figure 4 Rigid Gray for Static Production Applications

Figure 4 Rigid Gray, similar in overall performance to the previously announced PRO BLK 10 material, demonstrates capabilities for both functional prototyping and end-use part production thanks to its balance of thermal and mechanical properties, combined with excellent print quality, long-term indoor and outdoor mechanical performance and environmental stability. This material is ideal for static rigid housing and covers, casings, panels, and trim. The gray color is helpful for visualization of text, texture, and fine details for functional prototyping. The color also makes this material suitable for secondary processes such as painting and metal plating.

This material is already demonstrating value for 3D Systems’ customers. “We are using the Figure 4 Rigid Gray material to rapidly deliver functional parts for our consumer sporting goods lines, including ski helmet accessories, bicycle lighting covers, and sporting shoe soles and components,” said Grégoire Mercusot, material engineer, Decathlon. “We are very impressed with the performance of this material and the overall productivity of the Figure 4 solution. Out of the printer, parts display excellent dimensional accuracy and perfect quality, comparable to injection-molded plastics. The attractive grey color of the material is also ideal for highlighting fine surface details and texture-on-part.”

“Our customers lead their industries in innovation, and they are turning to us for support with increasingly complex applications,” said Dr. Edwin Hortelano, senior vice president, materials engineering & development, 3D Systems. “We’re not only partnering with our customers to help them design the optimal solution to meet their application challenges, but in many cases, we are also developing new materials that deliver the unique mechanical properties required. Our materials scientists created these latest enhancements for our Figure 4 portfolio to help our customers produce parts that not only enhance performance but improve productivity. The combination of materials, 3D printing technology, software, and deep applications expertise allows 3D Systems to deliver industry-leading additive manufacturing solutions that accelerate time-to-market and enable competitive advantage.”

Availability

General availability of these materials is planned for the middle of June 2021. For more information on 3D Systems’ complete plastic materials portfolio, please visit the company’s website.

About 3D Systems

More than 30 years ago, 3D Systems brought the innovation of 3D printing to the manufacturing industry. Today, as the leading additive manufacturing solutions partner, we bring innovation, performance, and reliability to every interaction – empowering our customers to create products and business models never before possible. Thanks to our unique offering of hardware, software, materials, and services, each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise of our application engineers who collaborate with customers to transform how they deliver their products and services. 3D Systems’ solutions address a variety of advanced applications in healthcare and industrial markets such as medical and dental, aerospace & defense, automotive, and durable goods. More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.