New Stratoconception system for fast prototyping
New Stratoconception system for fast prototyping
Keyword Rapid prototyping
French company Charlyrobot has developed a fast prototyping station called Stratoconception. It is able to produce prototypes of large dimensions (up to several metres), with high degrees of complexity (with or without undercuts or hollow parts). Such prototypes cannot be made with conventional three-axis or even five-axis machining.
Stratoconception can be used to produce all sorts of prototype, from simple dummy parts to complete functional prototypes, using any soft or composite materials. The Stratoconception process involves cutting shapes out of sheets of material and then fitting the different pads together, thus allowing the operator to create diverse forms in an efficient way. No special training in machining or CAD/CAM is required, so development time is considerably reduced.
Stratoconception is a complete and cost-efficient fast prototyping system. It can manage all stages of the process, from the virtual image on the computer screen through to the finished prototype. An incorporated PC with Stratoconcept-PC software controls the complete machining program, the cutting table and the finishing station.
The Stratoconcept-PC software operates under Windows 3.1/95/NT environments and is compatible with the STL format of the main CAD/CAM standards on the market. The software displays a virtual image of the prototype, that can be rotated.
The software controls cutting/stratification planes, steps, profiles of strata, scale ratios, accuracy and the positioning of inserts. The user views and validates each step of the production process and can recapitulate if necessary.
After entering the various parameters, the entire machining program, in ISO language, is downloaded to the software that controls the cutting robot.
Charlyrobot's Stratoconception system is already used by companies such as Peugeot, Strafor and Ensam. Charlyrobot is currently seeking an exclusive importer for the UK and Ireland.
For further information contact: Mme Solange Weinstoerffer, Charlyrobot, La Motte, 74350 Cernex, France. Tel: +33 450 328000; Fax: +33 450 440041; E-mail: charlyrobot@silicone.fr
