Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are the models made?
A: LightBeam3D uses the Envisiontec Perfactory Multi Mini Lens with ERM printer to create 3 dimensional models with the highest amount of detail available anywhere in today’s market.
Q: What is a 3D Printer?
A: A 3D Printer uses a technology that allows you to create prototypes rapidly. You can turn 3-D computer models into real parts in a matter of hours.
Q: How does the Perfactory® SystemWork?
A: Like most 3D printing systems the input data for the Perfactory® is usually in STL format. The STL file is imported into our own proprietary software which prepares the build and then creates a series of voxel planes. ( Imagine a picture from every angle.) These planes contain individual voxels or volumetric pixels that vary in thickness from 15 μm to 150 μm. The voxel planes are sent to the Perfactory® machine via an ethernet link, either directly from a PC, or on a network. The Perfactory® has its own hard disk, which can store up to 40 jobs in the queue. The voxelplanes are sequentially projected into the liquid resinusing a DLP® projector, at the heart ofwhich is aDMD® (Digital Micromirror Device).The printer’s light cures the liquid based photopolymer, turning it into a solid. As each Voxel Matrix is projected one after the other (the images with Volumetric Pixels or varyinggrayscale values) , a complete 3Dimensional part is created.
Q: What is the resolution of the Multi Lens system?
A: We are able to produce parts with a resolution in X and Y of .0012" (32um). Resolution in the Z direction is typically .0005",.0019", or .0039' (25um,50um or 100um), material dependant.
Q: What format should files be in for quoting?
A: We accept the following file formats : .obj, .3ds,.ztl, .stl, files. (Unless you decide to send us the design you made with your friends last night over beers. Then just scan the back of that placemat and send it to us.)
Q: What is the maximum size of the parts on the Perfactory machine?
A: We can build parts that are 84.75mm in X by 63.56mm in Y by 230mm in Z.
Q: How long will it take?
A: The larger the piece the longer the printer will run, but on average a piece should not take more than 4 days and in some cases can be overnight.
Q: How much will it cost?
A: The height of the model determines the price.The taller the model is on the build platform the longer the printer will run. Cutting a Model in half before printing will drastically reduce price as long as all of the pieces can fit on the build platform.
Q: How can I pay?
A: We accept MasterCard ,Visa, and Paypal as well as checks and money orders.
Q: What is Watertight?
A: Watertight; this means your mesh must not have any holes caused by missing polygons. Imagine that you could fill the mesh with water, if there are no missing polygons the mesh would not leak. If you can see the inside of your mesh then it is not watertight.
Q: What about confidentiality?
A: LB3D ensures complete confidentiality concerning your
intellectual property. As a matter of fact, a brief confidentiality statement is part of our quoting process.
Q: What if I don't have a 3D digital model?
A: LightBeam3D can create a digital 3D model from your designs.
Q: Can I print an assembly with moving parts?
A: Yes.