The problem you will run into is that if this is not a serious request to
build parts you will not get a well thought out quote. It takes a lot of
time to do a tool quote and these folks are busy.
Also if you send out quotes randomly you will get an amazing range of prices
that will make your 10-15% cost savings negligible.
Best way to conduct this experiment is to find somebody doing a very large
project who will attract the tool maker's attention. Then I would suggest
only sending three options:
1- 2D drawings with ISO views (but let mold builder know that 3D models will
be supplied on build)
2- 2D drawings and 3D database (VRML won't help much, send IGES, STEP, or
native CAD format as appropriate)
3- 2D, 3D and physical model.
I will suspect that for tool makers not employing extensive 3D techniques
you will get a better price and faster response with the physical models.
For tool makers using 3D tools you will see little difference between 2 & 3
(but they may say thankyou for the model-they do help) except for very
complicated tools.
You will also need to look at response time as it should be shorter for
options 2 & 3.
Mark Bannister
Bauer Juergen wrote:
> Ray,
>
> This is a great idea !
>
> One could compare the following four ways of RFQ:
> 1. Send 2D drawings on paper
> 2. Send 2D drawings and isometric views on paper
> 3. Send 2D drawings and isometric views on paper, together with 3D
> volume file on floppy (VRML format)
> 4. Send 2D drawings and isometric views on paper, together with physical
> rapid prototype part.
>
> Then, one could request tools for four different parts by all four
> methods per toolmaker, so each toolmaker gets four different requests.
> naturally, you must permutate the parts to wipe out the effect of
> geometrical complexity differences.
> The parts should be complex with undercuts, curved parting lines, small
> features, ...(connectors, hehehe), but not equal
> Examples: connector, mobile phone, pump housing, electric mirror
> housing.
>
> Who likes to do that ???
> Any researchers out there ?
>
> Regards
> Juergen
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