Produce Prototypes with Greater Precision

By DE Editors

Roland Advanced Solutions Division (ASD; Lake Forest, CA), a divisionof Roland DGA, recently introduced the The MDX-40, a powerful newdesktop Subtractive Rapid Prototyping (SRP) system list priced at$10,995. The MDX-40 produces prototypes out of a wider variety ofnon-proprietary materials with greater precision and better surfacefinish at less than half the cost of most additive systems, says thecompany.

Image courtesy of Roland Advanced Solutions Division

The MDX-40 can mill a wide range of low cost, non-proprietary materialsincluding ABS, delrin, nylon, and tooling board, enabling engineers tocreate functional prototypes to determine how well products willactually work. Handled by market focus groups, these prototypes mustperform like the final manufactured product and survive a barrage ofphysical tests, including thermal and structural trials. For example,toothbrush prototypes undergo in-vivo testing for hand fit, brush reachand handle deflection.

Roland says its SRP technology creates the most accurate prototypes forcomplex snap-fits; proves part manufacturability better than additivemethods, handles a wide variety of materials, and generates a smoothsurface finish.

Additional features include:

• Fourth Rotary Axis for unattended two- and four-sided milling
• Bundled 4-axis CAM software
• 12" x 12" x 4.12" work volume
• High-speed 15,000 rpm spindle for creating detailed features with fine tools
• Emergency stop switch and machine cover for clean, quiet and safe work environment

MODELA Player 4 is a CAM software application that accepts IGES, DXFand STL files exported from the most popular industrial 3D CAD softwareprograms. It is used to generate proportional 3D scaling, identifymilling direction and automatically generate and display the tool path.MODELA Player 4 supports tool changing when used with the AutomaticTool Changer (ATC) and automatic side cutting when used with the RotaryAxis Unit.

Virtual MODELA enables simulation of finished 3D models and accuratelyestimates machining production time. Lighting effects, materialcolor or bitmap overlays can be added for accurate finished productrepresentation. Access can be directly achieved from MODELA Player orby importing a PRN file.

The MDX-40 is currently shipping. Leasing options are available for allRoland products. For more information, visit the Roland ASD Web site.