January’s Part of the Month is brought to you by Doug Simsarian, Purple Porcupine Project Engineer. You could say he hit a hole in one with this choice. How’d he manage to do that? With the help of a rangefinder, of course.
For those of you who aren’t big golfers, a rangefinder is a handy tool that uses lasers or optics to measure how far away something is—kind of like a super precise distance measurer. But this isn’t your typical rangefinder. This rangefinder is 3D printed using four stereolithography materials.
Here are a few standout qualities of SLA technology:
- Accuracy, sidewall quality, high resolution
- Large-size capabilities with max part size of 29 in. x 25 in. x 21 in.
- Low variability, allowing for reliable and repeatable prints
See The Machines
Platform Size: 31.5 x 31.5 x 23.6” (800 x 800 x 600 mm)
Laser: 2 Watt
Beam Size & Focus: 150 to 600 μm (Dynamic & Variable)
Build Modes: HD & SD
Platform Size: 17.72 x 17.72 x 15.75” (450 x 450 x 400 mm)
Laser: 2 Watt
Beam Size & Focus: 80 to 750 μm (Dynamic & Variable)
Build Modes: HD & SD
Platform Size: 17.72 x 17.72 x 15.75” (450 x 450 x 400 mm)
Laser: 1 Watt
Beam Size & Focus: 250 μm (Dynamic & Variable)
Build Modes: SD
Let's Break Down Those Resins
So why did Doug choose this part? He told us, “It showcases most of my favorite resins off this printer.”
Somos Taurus was used for the body. Doug calls it “probably the best resolution in terms of appearance.” It has a thermoplastic-like performance, look, and feel, which means it not only looks great but is also super durable. Doug says, “It’s very tough—if I dropped this, I wouldn’t be worried.” It’s perfect for end-use parts, tough prototypes, and automotive components under the hood.
Somos WaterShed Black was used for the threaded cover, lower lens, and dial assembly. Doug points out, “You can keep this [part] for a long time” because this material holds up so well. It has a smooth surface finish and resists moisture and chemicals, making it a go-to for automotive parts, packaging, functional prototypes, and production parts.
Somos 9120 was used for the front cover and plug. This one’s versatile, thanks to its clear appearance and flexible strength. It’s commonly used in automotive parts, electrical casings, and fluid flow analysis.
Somos WaterShed XC was the perfect choice for the lenses, thanks to its crystal-clear color and clarity. It also offers excellent moisture resistance, which makes it great for lenses, investment casting, and duct work.
Since SLA is a single-material vat technology, this rangefinder had to be printed in separate parts and then assembled. The snap-fit and threaded features on this part are possible due to the printer’s 50 to 200 μm resolution. This concept prototype features intricate textures and fine details, showcasing the exceptional sidewall quality achievable with Neo printers. Doug sums it up perfectly: “You can’t really tell it’s 3D printed, and that’s a good thing.”
So, this part really demonstrates the power of SLA technology, creating high-quality, durable, and precise parts—perfect for a concept prototype of a rangefinder that looks as impressive as it is designed.
To learn more about your printer or material options, stop by our office or give us a call at 949.474.9222.
Meet Doug Simsarian
Meet Purple Porcupine Project Engineer, Doug Simsarian. Doug focuses on helping customers find the right additive solution for their prototyping and production needs. His favorite part about working at Purple is the diverse projects and exciting applications.
Out of the office, Doug enjoys playing tennis, biking, and working on cars. If you haven’t had the chance to meet Doug yet, connect with him on LinkedIn or stop by our office and say hi!
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