Complexity – 3D printing manufacturing aids rather than machining or molding allows you to design for optimal performance as additive manufacturing places fewer constraints on tool configuration. The addition of complexity typically does not increase build time or cost as compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
Consolidation – Eliminate or reduce assembly by consolidating several parts of the tool. Depending on the functionality and complexity, some multi-component jigs and fixtures can be merged into one contiguous component.
Ergonomics – Redesign your jigs and fixtures to improve handling, ease of use, and worker comfort. Additive manufacturing can produce certain features, such as contours or other organic shapes, with ease and no added cost that increases both safety and comfort of employees.
Weight Reduction – High-strength plastics offer a superior solution to conventional metal-cutting processes. Specialized light-weighting techniques can also be used to produce a strong component without all the heft.
Customization – Easily and cost-effectively produce tools customized for individual users, giving them greater control over their tasks and providing ultimate ergonomic support.
On-Demand Production – Reduce or even eliminate inventory requirements by producing fixtures and jigs as needed. This digital inventory also allows for painless design revisions and updates to ensure your tools are always performing optimally.
Stratasys Direct Manufacturing is taking on-demand printing to the next level, combining a new .020” resolution with Fused Deposition Modeling and ASA thermoplastic resin to print large parts and tools faster than ever before. With print speeds 40-60% faster than our .013” resolution, we can economically manufacture parts and assemblies with production times unmatched in the industry – a perfect fit for your tooling, fixtures, and jigs.
| Print Speed Comparison | |
|---|---|
| XD13 / T20 / .03" | 160 hours |
| XD20 / T40 / .020" | 63 hours |
| Timing savings | 97 hours |
Stratasys Direct Manufacturing now offers a full turn-key jigs and fixtures solution including services for creation and design, machining and assembly, even metrology and inspection of your fixtures. Click here to contact a Project Engineer today and see how Stratasys Direct Manufacturing can save you time and money on your jigs and fixtures.
