The Upload

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Past 'design' posts

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CNC Programming
CNC machining
August 27, 2026

What Is G Code? CNC Programming and How It Works

Learn what G code is, how CNC programming works, and how good part design improves machining.
By Protolabs
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CNC machining
CNC machining
August 20, 2026

CNC Hole Design: Through, Blind, Tapped, and More

Learn to design CNC machining holes for accuracy, manufacturability, and cost-effective production.
By Protolabs
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3D Printing part
3D Printing
April 3, 2026

3D Printing Design Optimization: Strength vs. Aesthetics

How to design parts that perform under load while maintaining a refined, customer-ready finish.
By Protolabs
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DMLS 3D-Printed Parts
3D Printing
January 7, 2025

Metal 3D Printing vs. Traditional Casting: Comparing Benefits and Use Cases

The differences between casting and DMLS are quite stark, so depending on your application it might be an easy choice regarding which works best for you. Three overarching factors will drive your decision: part design, quantities, and lead times.
By Chloe Vollaro
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Designing a 3DP CAD Model
3D CAD
November 7, 2024

Turning CAD Models into 3D-Printed Parts

Evaluating build direction, support structures, radii placement and wall thickness to optimize printed part.
By Eric Utley
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3D brain with purple background
Digital Manufacturing
May 3, 2023

ChatGPT and the Future of Design using AI and 3D Printing

Will your next designer be a computer? Explore how AI is making inroads in CAD modeling.
By Eric Utley
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Manufacturing process
3D Printing
November 28, 2022

Leveraging EDM to Rapidly Scale Metal Additive Manufacturing

New EDM technology rapidly removes printed parts from build plates, reducing cost and lead time.
By Protolabs
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An engineer checks settings on his CNC mill prior to machining a part.
Digital Manufacturing
November 7, 2022

What is NPI Manufacturing? New Product Introduction Explained.

Properly conceived new product introductions can mean the difference between success or failure.
By Gurvinder Singh
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3D print cad design
3D Printing
November 1, 2022

5 Ways 3D Printing Enriches Product Design

3D printing offers a wealth of opportunities to iterate rapid prototypes for testing and more.
By Eric Utley
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Man writing on clear surface
Digital Manufacturing
September 27, 2022

Accelerating Hardware Prototyping for Startups and Small Companies

Doing the right things in the prototyping phase is a bit more complex than it looks at first glance. Hardware requires special rules to get the results you need.
By Protolabs
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Metal part
Tech Tips
September 13, 2022

Designing Sheet Metal Notches, Tabs, and Slots

Notches and tabs are two sheet metal design strategies that can help you in more ways than you might initially think. Designing them properly is key.
By Protolabs
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Fillets on machined parts
Tech Tips
May 16, 2022

Fillets vs. Chamfers: How to Handle Edges and Corners in CNC Machining Design

A newly machined metal part can end up with edges that are sharper than desired for the end user unless the design smooths or breaks those sharp edges. To create an edge break, the design should incorporate sloped or beveled edges and corners known as chamfers—or rounded ones called fillets.
By Protolabs
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