Date of Award

Spring 2001

Document Type

Thesis - Restricted

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

First Advisor

Cariapa, Vikram

Second Advisor

Matar, Joseph E.

Third Advisor

Stango, Robert J.

Abstract

The technology of Rapid Prototyping (RP) is becoming an increasingly desirable aspect of design in which prototype parts are formed at the early design stage and used to shorten the overall product development life cycle. The use of rapid prototyping has enabled manufacturers to reduce early design stage costs associated with the tooling and cutting processes needed to produce prototype models traditionally. This project provides an insight on the performance of one of the Rapid Prototyping technologies; Ink Jet Printing. A MODEL MAKER-6 rapid prototyping machine, product of Sanders Prototype, Inc. is utilized during this research. The thesis explores the characteristics of the machine for jetting thermoplastics and waxes during the building of the prototypes. The relationship between the physical properties of the thermoplastics and wax and the jetting characteristics were investigated. An analysis of physical properties (density, viscosity, and surface tension) of both materials was conducted. The materials were build (thermoplastic) and support (wax) materials. In addition, the drop setting and impact analyses were performed. Further, samples were built on the machine and then their dimensions were measured and compared those in the drawings. Finally, the dissolution characteristics of both materials were studied. The limitations of the current system, practicality of using the MM-6 machine and the feasibility of using ink jet printing technology for building high-resolution parts are discussed. It is concluded that ink jet printing technology has some potential to become a viable technology for use in the rapid prototyping industry.

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