Additive Manufacturing
After speaking to a client, they wanted to replace their brittle ABS interior plastic trim panels. Their classic automobile was over 25 years old and new OEM panels were expensive due to the age of the vehicle. We quickly got started and found out that using additive manufacturing the material cost to print new panels would have a much lower cost than purchasing OEM panels from the original manufacturer.
To be able to quickly find an available printer, we designed a 3 piece design that was glued together. At a higher cost, we could print the part in one piece, in this case the client opted for the 3 piece design.
After measuring, reverse designing, and optimizing the part for additive we had a working prototype that met the clients needs. Here is a photo of the finished product with headliner material installed.
