The Digital Thread
Your blog feed for manufacturing resources, in-depth features, and industry news.
How to Use Model-Based Definition (MBD) in SOLIDWORKS to Accelerate Digital Manufacturing
Model-Based Definition can help reduce counterintuitive and ambiguous interpretations in 2D drawings while accelerating production time and quality inspections.
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Giant Robots Get Ready to Rumble in International Clash of Heavyweights
Posted On October 18, 2017 By Proto Labs
Giant robots from U.S. and Japan faceoff in ‘duel’ that may lead to an eventual fighting robot sports league.
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CNC Machining: 3-Axis vs. 5-Axis Indexed vs. 5-Axis Continuous
Posted On October 11, 2017 By Tony Holtz
5-axis indexed milling isn’t to be confused with true 5-axis machining, which allows for continuous machining of all three axes and the two rotational axes.
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John Deere Harvests Technology in San Francisco
Posted On October 5, 2017 By Angelo Gentile
Farm machinery manufacturer John Deere pursues ‘precision agriculture’ through greater use of automation and robotics.
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Design Validation with SOLIDWORKS: 3D Printing
Posted On October 3, 2017 By Mark Rushton
The design rules for 3D printing are still being developed, but there are some key design considerations that you should check before production.
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Design Validation with SOLIDWORKS: CNC Machining
Posted On September 26, 2017 By Mark Rushton
How to use the SOLIDWORKS tool, DFMXpress, to check hole depths, difficult to mill features, sharp corners, deep pockets, and more.
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When a Low-Volume Production Mold Makes Sense
Posted On September 25, 2017 By Proto Labs
Look at part design, lifespan, cost, and inspection requirements when qualifying molding needs.
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Design Validation with SOLIDWORKS: Injection Molding
Posted On September 20, 2017 By Mark Rushton
Explore several tools within SOLIDWORKS that can help you analyze the manufacturability of your injection molding design.
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What is Product Manufacturing Information (PMI)?
Posted On September 11, 2017 By Proto Labs
Product manufacturing information, or PMI, is critical to digital inspection reporting. PMI is any non-geometric data included within a 3D CAD file.
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More Drones Take Flight to Help in Hurricane Recovery, Relief Efforts
Posted On September 8, 2017 By Proto Labs
More drones are taking flight to help in hurricane recovery and relief efforts in Texas and Florida.
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Debunking Molding Myths: 7 Facts About Tooling at Proto Labs
Posted On September 1, 2017 By Proto Labs
The most common misconceptions regarding our injection molding service and shed light on our low-volume production capabilities.