Re: Getting prototype parts made?

Hi Bailey,
I'm not certain from your post whether you are looking for a 
prototype that is functional, looks like a finished product, proof
of a CAD design, or all three. One option is Rapid Prototyping, which
exists in a number of forms. These are all additive technologies
that create a component from a CAD file; one example is 
stereolithography, in which a liquid photosensitive polymer is exposed 
to a laser, as the vat in which the polymer is held is slowly lowered.
The laser polymerizes the liquid (makes it solid), giving a reasonably
accurate representation of a finished part.

Here is a web site with a good tutorial on RP:
http://home.att.net/~castleisland/rp_int.htm

If you know what the final form of the component will be like, then
perhaps you should try the shops that produce components in that form
and ask them how they would go about prototyping it.

Good luck,
Dan

NB: This account is not used for email. Address replies to
    dan dot beaton at sympatico dot ca.



MBS ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) writes:
> I am involved in the innovation of a product that in part will involve
> getting a waterproof hydrodynamic housing made for a small water
> propulsion unit (similar to the foot housing on a trolling motor). At
> this point, I am in the prototype stage so was wanting advice on
> getting quantities of one or two made as cheaply as possible. Beyond
> that, I am open to suggestions on quantity runs etc. For the
> prototype, I am only looking for basic structure and afterwards can
> consider the materials properties etc. For starters, is it possible to
> make my own parts from resins? Should I go with aluminum? Are there
> other inexpensive ways to get a few parts made? Where should I start?
> 
> Thanks for all help!
> Bailey--