Rapid Prototyping

Prototyping and quickly testing an idea is one of the cornerstones of Design Thinking.

In particular, rapid prototyping allows you to quickly explore new ideas and validate different choices while keeping the focus on the final result.

The process starts with a 3D file created using a CAD program, the file is then converted into STL file setting a number of parameters so to obtain a fine mesh and, consequently, increase the prototype accuracy and resolution.The prototype manufacturing process is now ready to begin: STL files are sent to the machine and physical models are produced.

There are numerous rapid prototyping technologies, they differ in terms of methods of production and materials.

For our project we use FDM Technology 3D Printers, that is the most widely process used, also known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). FDM printers use a thermoplastic filament, which is heated to its melting point and then extruded, layer by layer, to create a three dimensional object.

We use as PLA as filament, that is a sustainable material coming from renewable sources.

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is an innovative bioplastic. It is a material derived from the transformation of sugars present in corn, beet, sugar cane and other natural and renewable materials not derived from petroleum (unlike traditional plastic)

It's not toxic, completely biodegradable material (in fact it is disposed of as organic waste) and the plants necessary to produce the filament compensate the oxygen used up to decompose it.

Almost the totality of the components of the robotic arm are designed by the students will be printed in PLA.