About me
3D Printing: Lets make some parts!
With over 20 years of experience in 3D modeling, plastic part design and injection molding, I can help you bring your design to reality.
Whether it's just an Idea, a sketch on a napkin, or your own models, I can bring those ideas to solid reality. I've earned my professional level certification in Solidworks mechanical design. I have spent my entire professional career working with, and designing parts for plastic injection molding. I have multiple 3D printers and have learned how to troubleshoot and optimize designs for printing as well as future high volume injection molding.
Prototypes in Days, from multiple materials
Even if all you have is an idea, I can help you create the models, print 3D protypes, and provide costs estimates for low and high volume molding.
Lazer cutting and etching
A similar process, Laser cutting and etching can create intricate patters and complex flat parts from paper, wood, or plastics. I have my own simple machine for laser cutting and can cut flat patterns or etch designs in many materials. If you have a drawing, I can convert it into a flat pattern and cut it out or etch it into something.
My capabilities
A little background
I've worked for over 20 years in the plastic injection molding industry in both industrial and medical companies. In that time I've used several different modeling programs, but my expertise is in Solidworks. I've earned my Professional level certification and am working on the expert (highest) level. I have designed countless parts and fixtures over the years for use in automation and manufacturing.
I got interested in 3D printing probably about 5 years ago, when I got my first printer, and started making simple parts. With my skills in modeling, I was able to design my own parts and print them to test ideas. Over the years I've made parts for industrial automation, cars, toys, storage, and many other uses.
My other interest in restoring old cars and building custom cars has given me many opportunities to design my own clamps, hoses, supports, and fittings for cars. I've got parts I printed that are in a '66 Jeep CJ5, a '63 Jaguar XKE and a '67 Mustang.
I currently have 2 printers: an FDE printer that uses the traditional filament deposition method to build up a model, and a Photocuring MSLA printer that uses a photocuring polymer and LCD to "expose" each layer of a part and build it up. I also have a 3D CNC mill with cutting and laser abilities to etch and cut out 2d shapes, like vinyl stickers, Dog tags, or Cell phone cases.
I'd love to work on your designs and help you get them into the market. I love a good design challenge!
My Fees
Its hard to say how much custom design work will cost. I'm pretty good at estimating the time it will take me to complete a model. and I'll estimate it up front and charge based on that estimate. My hourly rate is $50 an hour for design work.
When it comes to printing costs. I'll charge for the time and materials on my machines. I can estimate those very accurately before the printing starts. I have many different materials available and am willing to buy just about any material on the market to get your idea made. For a custom material you will probably have to buy the whole container/spool/box whatever it comes in.
I'll always get you a quote and discuss the final product expectations with you before any work begins.