Rapid Prototyping Center


IMPORTANT NOTICE: THE SPRING 2008 SUBMISSION SYSTEM IS FROZEN BUT...

There is a chance that the RPCenter might be able to service some additional requests. We will have to be very selective about which projects we will accept at this point, because our resources are simply stretched to the limit.

To assist us in prioritizing these additional requests, we ask that you download one of the following forms from this web-page and follow the instructions carefully. If we see we will have time after servicing the current queue in each category (3D print, laser-cutting, CNC milling), we will make selections based on the need, the relevance and the feasibility of new project requests, using the information that you provide us on this form.

RPC 2008 Spring Petition Form

Overview

Our mission is to assist DAAP students in their design pursuits by using computer controlled prototyping technologies to produce physical parts from the digital models provided by the students.

The facility is staffed by one full-time manager and several part-time student employees. The available technologies are laser-cutting, 3D printing and CNC machining.

The Rapid Prototyping Center is located in room 5212 of the DAAP building near the south entrance. If you have questions about Rapid Prototyping, please browse through the Output Technology links. For questions or to coordinate a visit to the facility email Scott Lincoln, Manager (scott.lincoln@uc.edu).


For DAAP students who wish to use our services:

Rapid Prototyping is not instant. There is a human time-factor in the processing of your requests and the operation of the machines. You, the student, are interactive in this human factor. You can help accelerate your work in the RPCenter by preparing your requests according to the guidelines on this website and responding to the advice of the staff as they attempt to complete your project.


Work-flow of a student request:

* Plan your project.

Use multiple strategies - parts may be laser-cut, 3D printed or CNC milled by the RPCenter - parts can also be produced by manual means or bought. Pick the best strategy for each part you need. You may consult with the manager (scott.lincoln@uc.edu) or RPCenter staff for guidance.

* Prepare your CAD (Computer Aided Design) models.

CAD files are the driving force of the Rapid Prototyping technologies. For each technology there are specific guidelines that must be followed in preparing your CAD files to achieve the best results. CAD preparation is the student's responsibility.

* Submit your request online.

Use the online submission system (red link below) to create your request. You can choose the technology, upload your CAD files, communicate your specific concerns and track the progress of your job using this handy resource. You can also view the queues for the various machines using the same link.

* Sign an RPCenter Agreement Form.

These are available in the RPCenter. You must only do this once for your entire DAAP involvement. The form states that you will be responsible for charges you approve online using the Online Submission System. Give the finished form to any RPCenter employee.

* Watch your email.

The RPCenter staff will be emailing you for your input. We may need to have you edit your CAD files or clarify your intent. We will finally give you an estimated price that you must either approve or deny. If you approve it (by revisiting the Online Submission System) your job will progress to next queue. In most cases, this is the machine queue. When your job is finished, you will receive an email informing you to come to the RPCenter to pay the final fee and pick up your completed work.

* Pick up your completed work.

Payment is expected at this time. Payment options are: BearCat card, exact cash, or check to UC. Credit cards must be processed by the main office at DAAP - you will need to bring the RPCenter a copy of the receipt before you pick up your work.


Rules and Guidelines:

* Allow time for the process.

Submit your requests as early in your process as possible. The RPCenter cannot guarantee that all requests can be finished, especially near the end of a quarter. Do not expect to get last-minute requests fulfilled in weeks 9, 10 and beyond, when the RPCenter is overwhelmed with a back-log of requests. You may need a "plan - B" at this time.

* Only requests for DAAP class work should be submitted.

Help keep the RPCenter able to fulfill our mission of assisting DAAP students in their educational pursuits. The manager reserves the right to question a student's instructor regarding class relevance of requests.

* Do not submit parts that may be produced more effectively by manual means (table-saw, band saw, etc.).

This needlessly burdens our facility and reduces our ability to fulfill appropriate requests by other students.

* Freshmen are discouraged from using RPCenter resources.

This is only to help manage the load on the facility. Faculty can request exceptions under special circumstances.


Pricing of Services:

* Laser Machining

is priced at $0.50 per minute of machine time with an additional amount to cover the assist-gas used. An estimated cost is given to the student to approve. If the actual machine time is less, then the final price goes down accordingly. If the actual machine time exceeds the estimate, the estimated price is the final price. There is a $6.00 minimum charge.

* 3D printing

is priced by the cubic inch of material dispensed by the machine and by machine time. For the smaller, 310 machine the cost is $2.75 per cubic inch and $0.05 per minute for machine time. For the larger, 510 machine the cost is $3.25 per cubic inch and $0.06 per minute for machine time.

* CNC programming

is priced at $0.30 per minute with a minimum set at $12.00. An estimate is given the student to approve. If the actual programming time is less than the estimate, the final price for programming goes down accordingly. If the actual programming time is more - the estimated price stands.

* CNC machining

is priced as follows: the Bridgeport 3-axis and Komo CNC router cost $0.30 per minute. The minimum charge is $8.00. Estimated cost is given to the student to approve - the lesser charge between the estimate and the actual time is the final charge for machining. The Tarus 5-axis mill is priced at $0.40 per minute with a minimum charge of $25.00. Additional charges for special set-ups, fixturing, tooling, etc. may be included in CNC milling projects.


Reading Instructions

Please read through all the info on the site related to your machine. Most of the problems that we encounter have the answer on the site. We are constantly updating the instructions to make the process easier and more straight forward, so even if you have submitted work to us before, please re-read through them. The more preparation you do, the quicker we can process your request.


Submitting or Viewing a Job Request to the RPC

Online Job Submissions

All files submitted to the Rapid Lab MUST be submitted online through the new Online Submission System. Each request must be initiated by the student through this online system. Online Submission System

Online Job Status

The same Online Submission System can also be utilized to view the status of job and its relevant notes from the RPC staff.


Output Technology and CAD File Preparation

The RPC currently operates three different types of technologies for Rapid Prototyping:


Contact Us:

5212 DAAP
513.556.9284