This month we’re featuring something new, durable, and built to perform. Sales Engineer Drew Bayly selected a prototype race car steering wheel printed with the new ToughONE Black material. This part combines functionality with aesthetics, along with showing how PolyJet technology continues to push beyond visual prototyping into more durable, hands-on applications.
Printed on the Stratasys J850 Prime, this steering wheel demonstrates how designers and engineers can create prototypes that not only look production ready, but also feel and function closer to the final product.
Why ToughONE Black?
Drew chose this part because it “combines the high-end aesthetics, full color functionality, and durability of ToughONE Black.” ToughONE Black expands the ToughONE material family with a black finish designed for functional prototypes that require durability without sacrificing appearance.
According to Drew, what makes the material stand out is the ability to combine “the consistent visual quality and precision expected from the traditional Vero family of materials, but ToughONE introduces increased impact resistance and heat resistance.”
Combining Functionality With Realism
One of the most impressive aspects of this steering wheel prototype is the combination of ToughONE durability with the J850 Prime’s full color and soft touch rubber capabilities.
The steering wheel showcases detailed color features, ergonomic grip areas, and the toughness needed for repeated handling. This combination makes it possible to produce form fit prototypes that can move into real world testing and design validation.
Ideal Applications for ToughONE Black
ToughONE Black opens the door for more durable PolyJet applications across a variety of applications, including:
- Defense
- Automotive
- Jigs and Fixtures
- Consumer Electronics
- Toys and Consumer Products
For engineers and product designers, the material offers a way to quickly create prototypes that maintain the premium appearance PolyJet is known for while adding the toughness needed for more demanding environments.
Compatible Printers
ToughONE Black is compatible with the following Stratasys systems:
- J850 Prime
- J850 Pro
- J850 Core
- J835
- J35 Prime
Note: Printing with ToughONE Black requires ToughONE White.
Bringing Prototypes Closer to Production
As additive manufacturing continues evolving, materials like ToughONE Black help bridge the gap between appearance models and functional prototypes. Applications like this race car steering wheel demonstrate how manufacturers can evaluate ergonomics, aesthetics, durability, and functionality all within a single printed part.
Interested in seeing ToughONE Black in person? Visit our Irvine showroom to explore sample parts and learn more about the latest PolyJet materials and applications.
Meet Drew Bayly
Meet Sales Engineer, Drew Bayly. Drew helps customers find the right additive solution for their requirements. His favorite part about working at Purple is being able to help customers through their product development process more efficiently with right 3D printing technology.
Outside of the office, Drew enjoys spending time with his family and taking weekend trips. If you haven’t met Drew yet, be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn!
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