DESIGN TO FABRICATION
Digital fabrication involves using computer-controlled processes to produce physical objects or structures. This method translates digital design data directly into a tangible product. With digital fabrication, you can count on:
– precision: ensuring that design components are translated into physical form with minimal error;
– efficiency: reducing material waste and streamlining production workflows;
– rapid prototyping: enabling quick and cost-effective creation of prototypes for iterative testing;
– customization: creating customized and complex designs that might be challenging with traditional manufacturing methods.
In the domain of digital fabrication, we can export large quantities of files from generated 3D models following your set of instructions. These files can be textual (txt, csv, Json, or any other), bitmaps (jpg, png…), 2D (pdf, dwg), and 3D (stp, fbx, obj…). They can be targeted and optimized for your specific machine – be it a 3D printer, robotic arm, CNC machine, knitting machine, or any other.
3D PRINTING, ROBOTIC ARMS
We can export files tailored for various additive manufacturing processes from complex 3D models. For instance, we can transform a free-form wall design into a path with custom infill for robotic 3D concrete printing. Additionally, we can export optimized Mesh geometries suitable for crafting smaller and more precise models. Utilizing the parametric approach enables the rapid exploration of numerous prototypes.
CNC CUT, 2D PACKING
If you’re dealing with planar elements, we can take your 3D model and utilize 2D packing algorithms to generate files suitable for CNC manufacturing. 2D packing involves arranging planar elements on a set of sheets while ensuring the optimal use of the sheet’s space through careful consideration of the position and orientation of each element. We have the capability to organize thousands of elements, providing additional instructions for assembly as needed.
AUTOMATED DRAFTING
We can create accurate 3D models, extract 2D drawings, organize them on layouts, and then export the resulting PDF files – all automatically. This workflow proves beneficial when design elements follow the same set of rules – for instance, generating hundreds of drawings for custom façade panels, railings and formwork. While programming may initially require additional time, it offers the advantage of quick adaptability to any changes in the project.
MULTI-EXPORT
When generating precise 3D models, we simultaneously store a lot of additional information associated with the geometry. This enables us to efficiently modify and export each element individually or extract specific attributes, exporting only the necessary segments. The exported objects can be saved in various industry-accepted file formats. Those files can be subsequently imported into many specialized software applications for further analysis or integration into design workflows.
MULTI-IMPORT
If you have hundreds or thousands of files ready for manufacturing, there’s no need for manual checks – we can automate that process as well. We have the capability to import each file individually, reconstruct its geometry (whether from 3D or text data), and perform any required testing. If a file doesn’t meet the specified criteria, it can be flagged for manual review or automatically updated and re-exported.
