Re: Stereolithography Marketability

From: Ray Bradford
To: RP-ML
Date: Wednesday, April 19, 1995
Subject: Re: Stereolithography Marketability
Solid Concepts operates an SLA service bureau with 2 SLA 500s and 
3 SLA 250s and we also provide software for Rapid Prototyping.

1. 
For us the purchase has been justifiable. 
However, you need to consider how the purchase and new sales efforts fit
into your current business.

2.
The market appears to be growing (as is the number of machines in the 
field).
A major factor to consider is that 3D Systems Technology Center competes 
aggressively in the service business.

3.
We don't see any technology to replace the SLA on the horizon.
A successful desk top unit would likely negatively impact the 
service business for engineering design check prototypes,  
at least for smaller size prototypes. 
Products from Helisys, Sanders, StrataSys and DTM all have market segments
based on the benefits of their respective technology as does the SLA.

4. 
The SLA 500 is more of a work horse than the SLA 250.
The initial investment and the operating costs are much greater.
Most bureaus have started with the SLA-250 and expanded from there.

Let me know if you have additional questions.