micromachining

From: Brock Hinzmann (SRI International)
Date: Friday, September 16, 1994

From: Brock Hinzmann (SRI  International)
To: RP-ML
Date: Friday, September 16, 1994
Subject: micromachining
We are currently interested in micromachining, that is using
photolithography, LIGA, stereolithography and the like to create arbitrary
three-dimensional shapes and devices with part feature sizes and accuracies
in the micrometer range. This technology parallels RP in some ways, because
designs must be generated in CAD and carried out by machine, only on a much
smaller scale. One of the questions we have asked ourselves is: Can
micromachining add value to or even compete with RP in some applications? Is
there something that micromachining could do that RP is not able to do and
still be economical? For instance, could components be added on the surface
of a prototype to increase its functionality in some way, such as
micromechanical components, sensors, circuits, and so forth? Does a need
exist for prototyping micromechanical components? What kinds of components
might those be? What kinds of materials would you like to see RP be capable
of processing, such as different types of plastics, ceramics, metals,
composites, heterogeneous parts, and so forth? What kinds of prices could a
service bureau charge to make such parts or add features to a prototype?

I will be interested in any sort of response or even wild and crazy thoughts
you might have.

Brock Hinzmann


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