Hi DD:
Thanks for your letter. Comments in-line:
(I too am a NU alumnus)
***EG: Coops have a lot to commiserate about, that's for sure.
I've got an idea that I want to rapid prototype. It's a small, solid metal object that
would be heavily chromed or gold electroplated to the same quality seen on high end custom
motorcycles.
***EG: Depending on the geometry of the part, you may need RP - or you may not.
Complex: use RP. Simple: use CNC. Take a look at our FAQ section which begins here:
http://home.att.net/~castleisland/faq/faq_c0.htm
There's no problem finishing many types of RP-generated parts with various types of
plating, etc. CNC parts can be finished a myriad of ways.
I'd prefer to work with someone here in the NH area, but don't know where to begin.
***EG: Talk to service bureaus in your area. There aren't many in NH, but there are a
few more down south here in MA. Look at our directory:
http://home.att.net/~castleisland/sb_ci.htm
You'll want to make your choice based on the appropriateness of technology they can
provide for the job and also other services you'll need, such as design. Most offer a
vertically integrated suite.
I've got sketches of what I want to create, but do not have a CAD drawing and would prefer
to either skip that step or have someone do it for me. Would I go to a machine shop, mold
maker, or rapid prototyper? Ultimately, whomever does the prototype would be who I would
like to use for production.
***EG: You'll need 3D drawings for RP; the machines run on that data. You may need less
detailed dwg work if you can get away with CNC machining. You will need drawings, though.
I don't know what you're trying to make so I can't offer further advice here. Many RP
houses also offer CNC incidentally.
You need to speak with an impartial person that has some engineering background before
deciding on a direction - RP, CNC, etc. Pay for some consulting up-front so you make the
correct basic decisions.
You will not have to work with a moldmaker until after the prototyping stage, and it's
not likely that the people who do the prototyping will be the same ones that are
appropriate for a production run. Much depends on getting good engineering advice and
guidance.
What can I typically expect to spend for a prototype? I am a bit concerned about
confidentiality. Do these shops/businesses traditionally sign confidentiality agreements?
Enough questions.
***EG: Pricing depends on how complicated the part is, size, finishing requirements and
things like that. Pricing can range from very low dollars (hundreds) to many thousands for
any process of making a prototype - depending on requirements. The more you can do
yourself, the more you can save. You can find some ballpark info here:
http://home.att.net/~castleisland/faq/faq240.htm
I don't think any reputable shop or consultant would have difficulty with an NDA. It's
part and parcel of the process. You want to get a sense of the people you're dealing with
though, so it's good to stay within driving distance so you can speak face to face and get
educated at first.
Hope this helps and I send best regards.
Ed
Ed Grenda
Castle Island Co.
The Worldwide Guide to Rapid Prototyping
