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Ken R. Davis, Director Tel: (502) 852-7599 |
The Speed Scientific School recently acquired a SinterStation 2000 selective laser sintering machine from DTM Corporation of Austin, Texas in November of 1993. Working from computer-based solid model files, this device constructs prototype parts by using a scanning laser to selectively melt powdered material in an additive, layered fashion. Multiple materials, nylon, glass-filled nylon, Trueform, and metal powder are currently available. The nylon parts produced on the machine are durable enough for many assembly and testing operations. This material is particularly well suited for snap fits. The Trueform material allows creation of patterns with fine details and features. This material can be used directly in conventional investment casting for metal part fabrication. The Speed School facility was also a beta test site for a rapid tooling module that will allow direct production of injection mold cavities from solid model files. Speed Scientific School is the only engineering school in the nation with a facility of this type. It is used to support both instructional and research activities.
The Rapid Tool process allows the quick fabrication of prototype molds from which injection molded prototypes can be created. So not only will the design aspects of a part be taken into account during evaluation, but also the material properties and the influence of the molding process, which are the same as those of a production part.
We have recently added a 3-D laser digitizer for reverse engineering applications. This will give us the capability to generate computer models of an existing part or pattern directly. This file can then be directly downloaded to create a rapid prototype part or input into a CAD system for design manipulation or modification.
Consortium Members
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Consortium members are provided development time for making prototypes at $100 per hour on the SLS equipment with the total hours based on the individual members financial investment in the consortium for a three-year period. Members have access to the ongoing research and development in the technology of the Selective Laser Sintering of alternate materials, e.g., polypropylene, metals, and ceramics.
Center Status
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Center established 1st quarter 1994 |
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Process based on sintering of particulates (polymers, metals) |
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Currently have 52 consortium members |
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Have prototyped 1,000 different geometries - 3500 parts |
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Helping small companies do product development |
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Beta test site for rapid tool module |
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Recent publicity in Courier Journal (2); Business First |
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President's Annual Report |
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Recently added capability for Reverse Engineering |
For more information, contact:
Ken R. Davis, Director, Vogt Engineering Center, Room 101A;
Phone (502) 852-7599, FAX (502) 852-8890;
E-mail: krdavi02@ulkyvm.louisville.edu
Timothy J. Gornet, CAE Consultant, Vogt Engineering Center, Room 101;
Phone: (502) 852-0714, FAX (502) 852-8890;
E-mail: tjgorn01@starbase.spd.louisville.edu