HARDWARE

55-page benchmark study gives the Roland MDX-650 SRP milling device the highest ranking for producing fit, function and pattern prototypes.

Irvine, CA. December 2, 2003 In a new independent benchmark study that examines the industry’s seven most-popular rapid prototyping systems, Roland’s MDX-650 SRP (Subtractive Rapid Prototyping) device earned top honors in three out of four RP categories. The MDX-650 produced the best fit, function and pattern prototypes, and the second best concept models.

Todd Grimm, president of T. A. Grimm & Associates and a veteran of the rapid prototyping industry, conducted the comprehensive benchmark study specifically for design engineers who are trying to select the best rapid prototyping system for their work. The report offers an independent, detailed account of how the seven RP systems perform in 13 objective tests. It contains 34 charts, five tables and 36 images.

“Grimm’s benchmark study takes the confusion out of selecting an RP system,” said Bob Curtis, Roland DGA President & CEO. “Now, in addition to vendor claims, design engineers have 55-pages of unbiased, quantitative information. We are thrilled that the MDX-650 performed so well.”

“Thanks to its subtractive technology, the MDX-650 has a natural advantage over additive systems when it comes to making precise prototypes with a clean surface finish,” said Grimm. “This came as no big surprise; but I was really blown away by how fast and easy it was to setup and run the SRP system."

Functional Models

Engineers create functional models to determine how well products will actually work. While being handled by market focus groups, these prototypes must perform like the final manufactured product and survive a barrage of physical tests, including thermal and structural trials. Toothbrush prototypes, for example, undergo in-vivo testing for hand fit, brush reach and handle deflection.

In addition to producing accurate prototypes with a smooth finish, the MDX-650 rated extremely high because of its ability to use a wide range of materials. The SRP device can mill the same material used by the actual manufactured part, making it ideal for creating functional prototypes.