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Past 'engineering' posts

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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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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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Ribs on plastic part design illustration
MFG 360
April 25, 2022

How to Avoid ‘Over-Engineering’ Your Next Part Design

When you hear the term “over-engineering,” you probably think about all of those overly complicated products we’ve all encountered that seem too complex relative to their intended use. The confusing shower faucet controls. The washer or dryer with a dizzying array of counter-intuitive buttons and settings. Your new car’s baffling audio setup. Well, you get the idea.
By Protolabs
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auto engine
Industry Spotlight
August 27, 2019

Innovation Drives Automakers Forward to Navigate the Road Ahead

In an age of disruptive change for the auto industry, digital manufacturing is playing a prime role to help carmakers navigate the future.
By Jeff Schipper
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injection molding production facility
Industry Spotlight
July 17, 2019

Strategic Prototyping for Human-Factors Engineering

Strategic prototyping plays a key role in the advancement of Human-Factors Engineering and medical device product development.
By Andrew DiMeo
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microfluidics parts made with 3d printing
Tech Tips
July 16, 2019

3D Printing for Microfluidics

The 3D printing process, stereolithography, builds parts with detailed features and smooth surfaces— making it suitable for microfluidic fabrication.
By Protolabs
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DUCK the BattleBot
Q+A
June 17, 2019

DUCK! Redesigned to Quack Again on New Season of BattleBots

We recently chatted with Hal Rucker about DUCK!, his redesigned BattleBot.
By Protolabs
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molding an aluminum mold for production
Tech Tips
October 29, 2017

How a Finite Machining Toolset Boosts Cycle Time

Learn why we use standardized toolsets across our CNC machining service and how it keeps manufacturing time as fast as possible.
By Matt Ahart
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molding an aluminum mold for production
Tech Tips
September 11, 2017

What is Product Manufacturing Information (PMI)?

Product manufacturing information, or PMI, is critical to digital inspection reporting. PMI is any non-geometric data included within a 3D CAD file.
By Protolabs
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injection molding living hinge diagram
Tech Tips
July 24, 2017

Living Hinge Basics for Injection Molding

These design guidelines will help you create durable living hinges that add functionality to your injection-molded parts and reduce manufacturing costs.
By Protolabs
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3D-printed part with nickel plating
Tech Tips
June 13, 2017

Improving Performance and Cosmetics in 3D-Printed Parts with Secondary Operations

Secondary operations on 3D-printed parts can improve performance and enhance cosmetics.
By Tony Holtz
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the Protolabs metrology lab
Tech Tips
May 25, 2017

When a Low-Volume Production Mold Makes Sense

Look at part design, lifespan, cost, and inspection requirements when qualifying molding needs.
By Protolabs
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