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Making Casings for Prototype Electronic Devices?

Posted by Cliff on from the product-demos-done-on-the-cheap dept.

kiddailey asks: "I'm working on a project for self-enrichment that involves creating a working prototype of an electronic device. I've made a model of the basic shape of the device out of Sculpey (tm) and want to use it as a mold to make the actual plastic housing that I can then insert the electronics into. Has anyone done something like this before? Is there any way to achieve this without a significant R&D buget?"

2 of 22 comments (clear)

  1. Depends how small it is by Yarn · · Score: 4, Informative

    I generally use wood, light, strong, cheap, but labour intensive to shape. And flammable :)

    --
    -Yarn - Rio Karma: Excellent
  2. 3d printing? by Bazzargh · · Score: 4, Interesting

    You could send your design as a cad file to Toybuilders and they'll 3d print you one.

    However as you've already made your model you'll want it scanned. There are companies that will do this for you too - though they dont quote prices like Toybuilders do, so I guess it'll be expensive.

    I noticed from Neco's page that a Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing exhibition is taking place in Cincinatti on Tuesday (29th April) until May 2. If you get the list of exhibitors I am sure someone will be able to help.

    Cheers,
    Baz