Digital Lab

3D Scanning is used to create a digital record of the three dimensional properties of an object, to transfer to a cad file, this can be manipulated or recreated in other forms.

CAD The use of computer software as a tool to design an object.

CAM The use of computer software to control a machine tool or process.

CNC These type of milling and routing machines can cut three dimensional objects or surfaces, using a CAD file, from a solid material such as timber, aluminium, carbon fibres and polystyrene foams. The machines can cut along several axis at the same time.

Laser Cutting A laser cutter can cut through a material or engrave a pattern on to a surface using a CAD file. The technique can be used to cut a large range of materials.

Rapid Prototyping Manufacturing Rapid prototyping machines 'print' in three dimensions from a CAD file. The object is built up layer-by-layer; each new layer is bonded or melted into the previous one. Rapid Prototyping can be undertaken in a variety of different materials.

Selective Laser Sintering A type of rapid prototyping or manufacturing which builds three dimensionally using a polyamide powder.

3D Printing A type of rapid prototyping or manufacturing which prints three-dimensionally using a plaster based material bonded with glue. Also Prefatory Three Dimensional Printing a type of rapid prototyping or manufacturing which prints three dimensionally using photo-polymer resin cured with glue.

Direct Metal Laser Sintering A type of rapid prototyping or manufacturing which prints three dimensionally using a variety of metals, including bronze alloy, steel, stainless steel or cobalt chrome.

Water Jet Cutting A water jet cutter uses a fine jet of water, mixed with an abrasive matter, to cut through a range of hard materials, including iron, steel, titanium, stone, concrete.

Composites Lab Workshop facilities in our Faculty of Technology, providing fabrication and testing for carbon fibre and fibreglass.

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Contact Pete Davies, School of Architecture, Design & Environment, Faculty of Arts, University of Plymouth, Roland Levinsky Building, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1752 585 169
Email: pete.davis@plymouth.ac.uk






www.3Ddesign.org.uk

Updated 22 Feb 2012
Copyright Roy Tam University of Plymouth 2005-2010