The Center for Rapid Prototyping is focused on commercializing technologies related to ultrasonic sensing for injection molding processes, and physical and virtual geometric modeling for computer aided design.

The Center has been working on multiple projects, including:

• Machining techniques that allow the prototyping of
  geometric objects of arbitrary complexity on a 3 axis CNC
  mill with limited tools and little operator skill required
• A series of new sensors and controls for improved polymer processing
• Personal Prototyping System (PPS) that makes rapid prototyping affordable for small companies and perhaps even the average consumer
• Low cost 3-D scanning technologies that make the acquisition of 3-D geometric data practical and affordable for reverse engineering, medical imaging/reconstruction, etc
• A device that is capable of producing very large prototypes (Shapemaker)
• A photopolymer-based technique to create prototypes in a single step (Inverse Tomographic Construction)
• New micro and nano-scale polymer manufacturing
  techniques have been developed, including a micro-forging technique and a nanoscale injection molding
  machine.

Rapid Prototyping 01-02
Rapid Prototyping 02-03
Rapid Prototyping 03-04

Highlights

• Production of the first micro-scale injection molded parts
• Completion and testing of a production-
  type prototype high temperature ultrasound transducer
  and control system
• Production and test marketing of
  individualized replicas of human faces captured in a polymer based collectible

Spin Out Companies

Benefiting Companies

• Optima Development

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