Algorithm for Applying 3D Printing in Prototype Realization – Case: Enclosure for an Industrial Pressure Transmitter

Abstract

Additive manufacturing technology helped many organizations to save money in the product design process by reducing prototype costs, and also by providing a means for early evaluation and decision making. The idea of this paper is to design an electronics enclosure for an intelligent industrial pressure transmitter, using the additive technology. All enclosure elements are made on a 3D printer WANHAO duplicator i3 plus, using PLA materials. The enclosure realization, from CAD drawings to the finished model, enables a designer to correct existing errors, or make certain modifications as required by end-users. A process is described that enables designers to review their decisions at any stage of product realization, thus providing much more freedom in rapid prototyping. In this example, the advantages and disadvantages of additive manufacturing over conventional manufacturing are outlined. Some deficiencies have also been observed, such as mechanical damage to surfaces, burning of surfaces, tearing of prints, and surface roughness. To mitigate such irregularities, both mechanical and chemical finishing methods were used. The example confirmed that the finishing methods can affect the final enclosure dimensions and shape. Further prototype development should focus more on print quality, which depends on the shape of surfaces, the accuracy of the geometry, the uniformity of structure and shape, material density, and the resolution of details.