Friday, September 26, 2008

Four Out Of Five Do Not Trust Companies With Personal Data

Low levels of consumer trust in how businesses manage and secure customer data could put companies at risk, according to a study by Symantec  Nearly four out of five people in Britain believe their personal information is insecure in the hands of the companies that hold the data, according to a recent survey by Symantec Corp (Nasdaq: SYMC) and Moneysupermarket.com, the online price comparison site.  The research was commissioned by Symantec to assess attitudes towards online risks from both a consumer and business perspective.   An even higher number, 89 per cent of respondents, believes that reckless or repeated data breaches should be a criminal matter and punishable by imprisonment, with four out of five people saying it should be a ‘one strike and you’re out’ rule when it comes to data loss.  This low level of consumer trust could have a vast impact on the reputation and brand value of a company, when taking into account the response from businesses. Not only did the majority of companies polled (76 per cent) expect to lose customers if a data loss or breach occur, about half of them expected it to be immediate.   “These statistics are very concerning for business, particularly in the current unstable market conditions,” said John Brigden, senior vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Symantec. “Not only do they risk losing large numbers of customers following an incident of data loss, but almost 60 per cent of companies said it would be a lot harder to attract new customers once the reputation had been tarnished.”  A further 75 per cent of consumers are concerned by how much information companies hold about them, whether online or offline, and a staggering 93 per cent will not provide personal details to a company which has past problems of losing data. When questioned on the trustworthiness of public companies, half of those polled rated the Government as the least trustworthy organisation.   “Today we all have an enormous digital footprint, whether we realise it or not,” said Brigden. “Every time we shop online, bank online or increasingly simply surf the web, we are giving away our personal information, and clearly people are concerned how businesses and government handle that data.”  Out of sight, out of mind Despite their strong views, people are not careful when it comes to protecting their own information, with 73 per cent of respondents not checking what happens to their credit card information when it leaves their sight and 18 per cent not verifying the security of websites they use. When they do verify a website’s security, two thirds of respondents have indicated they check for the padlock, 30 per cent use security software, 27 per cent only use websites from a trusted brand and 11 per cent follow friends’ recommendations of safe sites.  Additionally, 89 per cent would share their name and 23 per cent their date of birth with a complete stranger. Respondents estimated the monetary value of their name at £1 and date of birth at £100, when in fact their full identity is worth a mere 50p, according to Symantec’s latest Internet Security Threat Report, released in April this year.  Even though half those surveyed voted online payments as the most likely risk of losing data, the credit crunch has forced the vast majority to turn to the Internet to shop, with 84 per cent confirming that they surf the web for the best deals. Seventy five per cent are more likely to shop online for items now than they were six months ago, which is a clear indication that consumers are first and foremost concerned about price â€" and not necessarily for their safety.   Clare Francis, from price comparison site moneysupermarket.com, said: “Over the past year we have seen an incredible upturn in applications for current accounts and credit cards on our site. However, it is when people start using these market-leading debit and credit cards that they need to be vigilant with their information. It is great to be earning 8.5 per cent on your current account or paying no interest for 12 months on credit card purchases, but you need to look after your personal information to ensure other people can’t start using your details.”  Brigden added: “While fingers have been pointed at organisations that have lost customer data recently, it is also the responsibility of consumers to protect themselves when it comes to data risk â€" a sentiment that is shared by 84 per cent of respondents. No security measure can be fully effective unless people are more responsible and recognize that they too have a vital part to play in protecting their information.”   Based upon the research, Symantec has put together the below consumer personality profiles for which most of the population fall into:  SYMANTEC CONSUMER PERSONALITY PROFILES  Wealthy Warriors Representing one quarter of people in Britain, ‘Wealthy Worriers’ are the least affected by the credit crunch and, having accumulated their wealth over the years, need not shop around for better deals. However, they have a high level of concern that their data is insecure and, as a result, also place a higher value on all their personal information.
Cagey Crunchers Cagey Crunchers represents nearly a quarter of the nation. They are the most price-conscious folk and, as they have been affected by the credit crunch in one way or another, these consumers incessantly look for the best bargains. Consistent with their wary style, they are also web-savvy and keep a close eye on online security.

Serene Surfers As the third largest group, Serene Surfers represents nearly one in five British people. With a neutral attitude towards the credit crunch and being web-savvy, this middle-aged group are enthusiastic Internet shoppers and more likely to shop online now than they were six months ago. Due to their alertness to Internet fraud and the high value they place on their personal information, they believe these details are in safe hands.

Restless Retributionists ‘Restless Retributionists’ are of the younger population and, with most being financially unstable, they are forced to find the cheapest prices amidst the current economic situation. They are highly concerned about the number of people and companies who keep their personal information and, trying to hold the moral high ground, they have the strongest feelings towards reckless or repeated data breaches, and believe it should be a criminal matter and punishable by imprisonment.

Optimistic Ostriches Only one in ten people fall into the ‘Optimistic Ostriches’ group. These happy-go-lucky British are indifferent to the credit crunch and only somewhat concerned that their data is insecure, while not placing a high value on this information. Not surprisingly, Optimistic Ostriches are less likely to check what happens to their personal information and are more willing to forgive the companies that lose this data.

GPS Fleet Management - How Technology Can Help Reduce Your Running Costs

Major advances in technology and manufacturing has meant that GPS Tracking technology is now readily available, and affordable to both businesses and consumers alike.
GPS is now seen as a necessity for anyone who has a fleet of vehicles and is interested in using them daily. It may seem to an average man that where does the need for GPS tracking arise when everything is going on well without it.

GPS Tracking systems offer a number of benefits to their owners. In this article we will focus on the benefits of GPS Tracking devices installed in vehicles and fleets.

With the rising cost of fuel a GPS Tracking device fitted to a vehicle can help to increase the awareness of the efficiency of the driving, or how much fuel is being consumed. It can also help business locate the whereabouts of a company vehicle and if necessary, allocate them to a new job request that is close to their location. Not only does this help to improve the efficiency of your fleet, but also provides your customers with a much improved, responsive service.

Probably one of the most obvious reasons for installing GPS Tracking devices in fleet is to track the location of your vehicle either when out on a job, or if the vehicle is lost or stolen.

Technology such as geofencing will allow the owner of a fleet to receive alerts if the vehicle breaks a virtual boundary, useful if you suspect your employees are using your company vehicles for something other than work.

Another area of importance that can result in cost savings for your business is Insurance. Generally, Insurance companies know that vehicles that have GPS Tracking devices installed are less prone to accidents and thefts. This alone can contribute to about 15-20% savings in your bill.

In today's business world, with increased pressure and profit expectations, the Investment of a GPS Tracking device to assist with the management of your fleet is a necessity.

Hertzler Systems Issues White Paper Based on Aberdeen Group Research

Hertzler Systems Inc. announced the release of a new white paper on the role of real-time data in improving profitability and customer satisfaction. The white paper is based on independent research by the Aberdeen Group, a Harte-Hanks Company (NYSE:HSS), and identifies the top drivers of Best-in-Class performance among manufacturing companies.
Hertzler Systems has released a new white paper describing the role of real-time data in improving profitability and customer satisfaction in manufacturing businesses. The white paper, grounded in data uncovered in independent research by the Aberdeen Group, provides additional insights into the key drivers of best-in-class performance.

Evan Miller, President of Hertzler Systems explained: "We wrote the white paper to offer additional guidance for understanding the Aberdeen report on Event Driven Manufacturing Intelligence. As we parsed the data ourselves we found some interesting insights that didn’t ‘leap off the page’ at us on the first read. Specifically, we found that ready access to actionable real-time data is a key driver of Best-in-Class business performance."

The research data show that Best-in-Class performers enjoy a 33% higher profit margin than average and laggard performers. “What we wanted to know,” said Miller, “is what Best-in-Class manufacturers do that is different from the other groups. We now have clear answers to this question.”

The white paper is available at no charge at http://www.hertzler.com/php/portfolio/white.paper.detail.php?article=37


Hertzler Systems (www.hertzler.com) provides seamless, accurate data acquisition solutions that drive business transformation. The company provides the leading real-time data acquisition and analytics software, the GainSeeker Suite. This powerful and flexible system is best used by lean and progressive companies. Gainseeker Suite allows companies to connect with devices and other information systems, collecting data and alarming key personnel when problems arise; this technology allows organizations to analyze data for root cause problems, converting data into knowledge.


Hertzler Systems has been a leader in Statistical Process Control and Six Sigma for over twenty years, and includes a diverse customer base in service, transactional and manufacturing environments; clients include BAE Systems, Crown Audio, IDEX Corporation, McCormick & Company, Inc., Hormel Foods Corporation, Titleist & Footjoy, and TaylorMade-Adidas Golf Worldwide. The company's software and services enable clients to collect and analyze data; building a robust data infrastructure for making data-driven decisions. These capabilities help clients to reduce costs, cycle time and errors, and increase profitability.

How To Do It Yourself Solar Power-It's Cheaper Than You Think

Who wouldn't want to save hundreds of dollars annually on their energy bills? You can do it by tapping into the growing how to do it yourself solar power market. The average joe can do it even though this technology is only beginning to grow in popularity. For under $200.00 you can set up a portable solar power system that will power any appliances or lights you need.

I found an excellent resource for this at Earth 4 Energy. The creator of this e-manual has found an innovative way to build portable and cost-effective energy systems for low costs. Also, he explains how to build a windmill system if that would work well in your area. Many people sell the extra electricity they generate to their local power companies. Every little detail of the systems are covered and explained so that you will be able to build your own systems immediately after reading.

I have personally used the Earth 4 Energy and was impressed with the amount of information available for the price of $50.00. I am not a very saavy do-it-yourself kind of person and I was able to follow the how to do it yourself solar power information with relative ease. I use it everyday to power my appliances and it only took me about four hours to build from start to finish.

There are also a couple extras included with the Earth 4 Energy product. There are some detailed articles regarding how you can reduce your oil dependence and also how you can save money by using ethanol as an alternative fuel source.

But without a doubt, the most innovative and valuable part of the product is the how to do it yourself solar power information. Take a look at it now, $50.00 is an incredibly small investment when you are going to be saving hundreds in the long term and helping the Earth out.

Rising costs of living and global warming issues are definitely signs that it is time to save money and stop harming the environment whereever possible. You and I can definitely be among the few who help to reduce the trend by opting for do it yourself solar power solutions.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Get the Right TV Stand for Your TV

In the modern world, television sets are not just for watching. Now, they are purchased to display and create a focal point as well. Because of this, it is now more important than ever to get the right kind of stand for your television set. You want to find something that will best compliment the TV and set the piece of equipment apart from the other items that are in the room.

First, decide what your goals are with displaying your television set. Do you want to make the television the focal point of your room? Do you plan on it being the most prominent piece of equipment that you have displayed? Do you want the television to be the first thing that is noticed when guests come into the room?

Is the television the only thing that you intend to have on the stand? If that is the case, you might want to get a smaller television stand. That will allow the TV to look even bigger and it will become more of a display item. The stand will not overshadow the TV that you want to display.

If you want to have other things on your TV stand, then you need to get a bigger stand. Keep in mind that if you get too big of a TV stand, it could end up swallowing your television set. Because of that, you want to get one that is big enough for you to place the items that you want on it comfortably, but you do not want to get one that is bigger than you need it to be.

Also, decide what kind of material you would like to be used in your stand. Some people like the way that a glass stand makes the television set really stand out, while others like the classic look of wood. Decide which one will go best with the room that the stand will be placed, as well as which kind gives you the look that you are trying to achieved. Imagine both a wooden and a glass stand in your home and see which one looks better in your mind. Then you will be able to decide what kind of material you want to be used.

Then, make sure that you find a TV stand that is sturdy enough for the television that you are displaying. If you have a big TV that is heavy, you need to make sure that the stand that you purchase can handle the weight. Make sure that the stand is well made so you do not have any problems with it in the future.

A TV stand is a piece of furniture, which is why you should choose carefully before you make a purchase. Most people stick with the same TV stand for years, which means that you want to get something that you will like for a long time to come. Get something that will last, both because it has good looks and it is well made.

Thermal Imaging Cameras Offer Economical Solutions for a Variety of Diagnostic Applications

cameras, thermal imaging technology is now an effective problem solving, analysis and preventive maintenance tool for a variety of applications. Thermal imaging cameras are light weight, ergonomic, intuitive and contain high resolution thermal detectors that offer valuable temperature information to isolate problems. This article offers an explanation of the technology and the applications for which it is well suited.
Thermal Imaging Cameras function much like digital photographic cameras except they take a thermal picture. The detectors measure infrared radiation which is then converted to electrical signals in order to create a visual representation of the heat an object gives off. The visual representation displays cooler items in shades of blue and hotter items in shades of red and can be analyzed and formatted on a computer via a USB download.
When deciding on a thermal imaging camera, the primary features to consider include the resolution, accuracy and temperature range. The resolution is measured by pixels. Because every pixel on the screen is a discrete temperature reading, the more pixels the camera has, the more detail the thermal picture will be. Accuracy is measured in terms of a percentage of the value of the reading. Most cameras have accuracy's between 2-5%. Finally, thermal cameras are limited to a specified temperature range. If your application deals with extreme heat or cold, you should make sure the camera is capable of taking those measurements.
While the general specifications from one camera to the next are similar, high-end cameras typically offer additional features you may find useful. Many cameras offer photographic overlays of the thermal picture. This is ideal for identification of detailed components and their proximity to each other in the thermal picture. Cameras intended for the building inspection and HVAC industries offer dew point and insulation alarms useful in locating areas of moisture or insufficient insulation. Some cameras even offer voice annotation to document and flashlights to illuminate dark areas.
There are numerous applications for thermal imaging cameras that, prior to the introduction of low-cost offerings, were previously cost inhibitive. The heat signature of electrical circuits and machine components may precipitate future problems and failures. HVAC systems and building structures display obvious thermal visualizations of inefficiencies, insufficient insulation, moisture and loose duct fittings. Pest Control professionals can identify infestations inside of walls or enclosed areas as a result of nesting areas displaying higher temperatures than surrounding areas. Plumbing professionals locate blockages in pipes and law enforcement agencies are aided in finding hidden suspects. Even paranormal investigators find thermal imaging cameras an aide in their discovery.
Thermal imaging cameras cost as little as $3,000, making them an economical analysis and diagnostic tool for a number of professions. Many people probably do not consider thermography as a viable preventative maintenance or diagnostic solution based on preconceived notions of price or a lack of knowledge on thermographic applications. However, those who have invested in the technology have found a way to differentiate their business from competition and reduce the overhead associated with "old-school" methods.

Monday, September 8, 2008

I need a Security Camera

Choosing the correct Surveillance Camera for your specific application, can sometimes be overwhelming, here are a few questions to ask yourself before making a decision.
* Will the Camera be used outside or inside?
* Do you want the Camera to be able to see in the dark (Infrared or LED)?
* What style of Camera are you looking for (Dome, Bullet, Covert, PTZ, or Board Camera)?
* What Resolution quality are you looking for (TVL)?
* What is the distance you want to view, and the width and height of that area?
* Do you need a Vandal Proof Camera? * Is the Camera directly exposed to the elements (does it need a heated exterior housing)?
* Is your existing wiring 12 Volt or 24 Volt?
* How far will you have to wire the cameras (RG59 Siamese Coaxial should not be run further than 800')?
* Will I be running power over Ethernet (most cameras will not allow this, however more and more IP Cameras are coming with this option)?
* Wireless (most wireless options have to be "clear line of site" to work)?
* Are you looking for a Camera with analytics (this will be an IP Camera)?
We often hear our customers say, "I need a Security Camera" and our staff starts down the list of questions above along with many others to find the correct Camera for our customer's application. The PCSurveillance.net team is here to help answer your questions. Our goal is to provide you with clear and concise information to help you make an educated decision. Our team has years of surveillance experience and our here to help you!

Fuel saving Technoligy

Official Statement of Performance on MPG-CAP™
There appears to be a need for clarification about the technology behind the FFi MPG-CAPS™ due to confusion caused by other less credible fuel additives with similar sounding marketing claims.
First of all, the majority of fuel additives, treatments, and conditioners sold today are merely detergents that serve to clean the fuel system but do nothing to the combustion characteristics of fuel or, more importantly, to the combustion chamber itself. This is the arena in which FFi technology and products are formulated to perform, providing the distinction between our products and all the others.
Since most automobile engines burn fuel at a rate of more than 99% efficiency, claims of improving combustion alone are essentially meaningless. However, the greatest loss in the efficiency of an automobile engine is the loss of heat, which drives the piston. Experts in the combustion field say that heat recovery is the only practical way to improve gas mileage on a modern engine. Our product is a combustion chamber treatment that conditions the setting where fuel combustion occurs so that the process uses more of the heat generated by combustion.
Here is the way it works. When an MPG-CAP™ is added to the fuel tank, the fuel carries it to the combustion chamber. Its ingredients are used to treat the metal surfaces by forming a film that is technically called thermally derived oxidation. The carboxylic metal creates an oxide residue on the hot surfaces at the time of combustion.
This process can be compared to the scorching of a pan when cooking. When overheated, the food residue forms a layer on the pan when it is oxidized; leaving a film even after being scrubbed that discolors the pan and appears to permeate the pores of the metal.
Inside an engine cylinder, small amounts of material provided by the MPG-CAPS™ oxidize in high temperatures, rapidly producing a thin layer of film on the cylinder walls, the piston face, and the fire deck that provide several benefits.
First of all, the MPG-CAPS™ changes the surface heat absorption characteristics of the metal. The fuel and air mixture produces energy in the form of heat that creates expansion that drives the piston down, and the film inhibits the transfer of radiant heat. This directly results in higher combustion temperature, greater expansion, and more power.
The second benefit the MPG-CAP™ film provides is a polished surface effect that allows more even distribution of the fuel. It can be compared to the beading of water on a polished paint job. The microfilm attracts the liquid fuel resulting in better fuel distribution that shapes the charge to yield more power.
The third benefit of the film is by serving as a catalyst precursor to react with the catalyst component in the MPG-CAPS™ themselves. The active compounds of the MPG-CAPS™ in combination with the heat in the cylinder cause a catalytic reaction that promotes better disassociation of chemicals and better burn. The catalytic reaction is also exothermic and produces heat. Altogether, these three benefits result in a total of 30 to 40% more expansion in the cylinder with an equal amount of fuel.
Another factor to be considered is the ability of the film created by the MPG-CAPS™ to inhibit the build-up of harmful deposits. This is particularly important in view of the effects that the EPA regulations have had on the automobile industry. In order to comply with EPA mandates to lower emissions, fuel manufacturers have removed lead and added oxygenates to fuel. The repercussion is the building of harmful deposits that tend to soak up fuel and cause performance problems. Decreasing the extent of those deposits is yet another benefit of our product.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly of all, is the reduction of emissions resulting from the use of MPG-CAPS™. The catalytic process found in catalytic converters on exhaust systems is started in the firing cylinder, which reduces the formation of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The work done by the converter is reduced, and life of the converter is extended.
Extensive scientific testing has revealed many positive effects of FFi products, and none that are negative. Distributors and customers have the added security of a worldwide insurance policy that covers any possibility of engine damage. There is every reason to be confident in the abilities of the MPG-CAPS to make a favorable difference in your world

World Class Manufacturing and Lean Thinking

Global competition is forcing world class manufacturing companies to practice lean thinking. As the need for a new manufacturing strategy adds pressure to the decision making process, the results can be very profitable!
Because of the incredibly low wages in developing countries, companies are forced to think lean or die. Many long standing companies have gone by the wayside and closed forever because they were unwilling or unable to adapt.
Yet some world class manufacturing companies have embraced lean thinking and are more profitable than ever! A good example of this is Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd., located in Bolton, Ontario, Canada.
My first encounter with Husky was as a plastic injection mold maker. I was an apprentice and my master was a man who had previously worked for Husky. He was certainly the best mold maker I have ever worked with and he told me many stories about Husky and how good they were at mold making.
Since that time I have seen and used their products on an almost daily basis and recognize the expertise and quality. So it is no surprise that they have understood and embraced the lean manufacturing culture and mastered it.
Recently they introduced a new hot runner system to the plastic injection molding industry, called PRONTO. A hot runner system is a highly technical method of melting plastic raw material and injecting it into a steel mold. This is how most of the plastic things you use on a daily basis are produced. It is one of those things nobody thinks about or appreciates!
Husky is able to reduce leadtimes and costs, while maintaining their high standards of quality. They have managed this by producing the component through a combination of standard parts, automated design practices and lean manufacturing of custom plates and manifolds.
The two-week PRONTO systems resulted from Husky’s systematic lean implementation, which included the following steps: Cross functional teams reviewed the entire value stream from shipment of the product through to initial order entry with a clear objective of reducing lead times to two weeks. Using Six Sigma tools, manufacturing times and variation at each step in the process was measured. Work balancing enabled improved flow and ensured constraint operations are effectively utilized. Non-value added tasks were eliminated. Standard work procedures were implemented to ensure consistency and flow. Visual cueing systems were created to ensure quick response to any flow impediments. From start to finish, each team coordinated their efforts to ensure consistent product flow at each handoff point. The 50 percent reduction in leadtime was achieved in less than three months, with no impact to existing production or on time performance. From the end-user perspective, this is a welcome change. In the past, each hot runner system was more or less custom made for every application. By standardizing the system mold designers can more easily plan the design and manufacture of injection molds. This cuts leadtimes and reduces costs, as well as making the job of the mold maker easier.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Reasons You Should Buy TV Lift

When you buy TV lift systems for your home you can take advantage of many features. They are easy to set up, quiet, and low profile. No matter the size of your television you can find a lift that is right for you.
One of the great things when you buy TV lift systems is that you can put it together yourself. These are simple to install and they include detailed instructions with pictures. You won't have any difficulty putting these together. The sets come complete with everything you need like the hardware, controller, remote, and the television mounts. When you are finished installing your TV lift it will look like a professional did it for you.
Another reason you should buy TV lift systems is because they are low profile and compact. Some people think that the lifts are big and bulky. They are not. You would be surprised how simple they really are. You can fit any size television in a TV lift from a 24 inch to a 60 inch and they all fit and work the same. No one will even know you have a flat panel in your home until you press the remote and the television appears.
When you buy TV lift systems you also don't have to worry about another piece of equipment in your home that is loud and annoying. These lifts are super quiet and they run smoothly. You will be excited to have added this technology to your home.
There are many reasons you might consider to buy TV lift for your home. It is an excellent solution for hiding a flat panel television in your home. They are very easy to put together and you don't have to hire someone to do it for you. They run very quietly and the lifts are not big and bulky either.

Find People Using The Reverse Address Directory!

Internet brought with it great advances in communication and extreme ease of information retrieval. It has made several things possible that would have otherwise may have been either deemed impossible or was difficult to achieve. With the advancement of technology, it is now possible to find the name, phone number and even the email address of a person, armed with just the address of that person. This is made possible with an amazing tool called the reverse address directory. This service is offered online and is extremely convenient and easy to use. Many websites offer this service for free. For those looking for much more information, it would help to have the name, phone number and the address and this can be done with using an address directory.
The reasons why people would want to find information about others are numerous. One reason could be that someone wants to find a long-lost friend and the only information they have is their address. Using this address, they will be able to perform a reverse address lookup in a reverse address directory.
However, a problem with finding the details may be there is the number you are looking for is not listed. This is because the free reverse address directory contains only details of numbers that are listed. Cell phone numbers and unlisted numbers cannot be found using the free services. This is because these numbers are considered private and safeguarded without giving access to the public. They can only be accessed by professional services that pay huge amounts of money to procure these records.
In spite of conducting a search, you are unable to find the business or person you are looking fire, you have another option, which can give you the required results. This option is that of using the services of a private detective. Although, this method works, the drawback is the time taken and the expense involved. Even if you decide to search for the information yourself, it still involves a great deal of time and effort.
The best option would be to use a paid reverse address directory, where you are guaranteed to find what you are looking for by using the zip code and street address. This may cost a little but the charges are usually minimal, and the accuracy and easy with which the information is given access to is well worth the money spent. You can go in for the ones that offer numerous unlimited searches and charge a one-time fee.
There are several directories online and all you need to do is find a good one that fulfils your needs. As long as you provide the street name and address correctly, you will be assured of accurate results almost instantly. All this can be done sitting in the comfort of the office or home and having a computer with internet access. Even long-lost friends get closer almost within minutes of you searching for them. These reverse search directories are a boon to people and are extremely useful in many ways, both in business as well as personally.

Monday, September 1, 2008

3D Printer Innovation and Technology for the Hobbyist

The 3D Printer or rapid prototyping system is a computer assisted manufacturing process where software guides the creation of three dimensional models. In the past model makers had to rely on plastic formers or metal modeling techniques to create replicas, reproductions and prototypes. But now because of the more advanced technologies that have been developed in the area of prototyping a new process known as rapid prototyping manufacturing is available. The 3D printer technology available today allows the hobbyist to create custom designed 3 dimension models simply and easily in the comfort of their own workshop. Long and timely manufacturing processes have been eliminated by the 3D printer and at a reasonable price for the hobbyist.
3D Printer Technology and Model Creation
Traditional modeling techniques available to the hobbyist involved a long list of design steps and an even longer list of manufacturing steps. Imagine having a 3D printer that could reproduce from a computer assisted design (CAD) file a rare model train to add to your collection. The 3D printer would build the model train from the ground up with all the features of the original including the lettering and the correct color of paint. Using liquid polymers extruded from injectors the 3D printer would craft a replica of the train that would be indistinguishable from the original design. By building the train layer upon layer the 3D printer software would calculate the proper length, width and height requirements from the specifications and the rapid prototyping process would produce a completed 3 dimensional model of the train. The 3D printer technology would enhance any hobbyist’s abilities and creativity.
3D Printer Advantages for Model ReproductionThe computer assisted design advantages of the 3D printer are numerous compared to traditional prototyping techniques. Traditional techniques that employed plastic formers to create models required large, bulky and sophisticated equipment which also required a major investment to own and operate. 3D printers however are reasonably sized, compact and much less expensive to own and operate. The set up time and ease of operation has made the 3D printer a popular choice for creating models and replicas. The almost unlimited flexibility and potential applications for the hobbyist to create models with the 3D printer is a distinct advantage of this technology.
Traditional modeling techniques carried some dangers inherent in the process. Some techniques involved hot metals being poured into molds while others heated toxic chemicals which were pressurized and cooled. The technology used in the 3D printer produces no toxic chemicals to harm the hobbyist nor uses any toxins during the prototyping process.
With metal modeling techniques a substantial amount of post production cleanup of the models and work area was needed. With the 3D printer an additional advantage is gained from using the rapid prototyping technology as post production work is drastically reduced. The advantages of the 3D printer for the hobbyist are many including creative flexibility, safety and ease of operation. The innovative designs that the hobbyist will be able to utilize with the 3D printer present a distinct advantage over traditional model and replica processing methods.

The Innovation and Technology of the 3D Printer

3D printing also known as rapid prototyping technology is the design process where computer programming guides the creation of a three dimensional model through the layering of fabrication material. Engineers, designers and technicians would benefit from advanced prototype production. Recently new technologies have been developed producing many advantages for those needing rapid prototype technology. The 3D printers available today are faster, easier and more affordable than previous fabrication technologies. 3D printing has also eliminated the need for expensive tools and skilled craftsmen to produce design prototypes, making the process more affordable, cost efficient and desirable.
3D Printer TechnologyThe 3D printers technology is quite simple to understand really; computer assisted design software (CAD) directs an inkjet nozzle to extrude small amounts of material in layers to form a three dimensional model. Almost like building a sand castle at the beach. By adding layer upon layer the CAD software is able to calculate length, width and height requirements from design specifications and guide the process toward completion of a 3 dimensional model. Traditional prototypes were built from solid blocks of material and the excess was cut away until the model was produced but with today's technology the models are built from the ground up with no excess. Of course the sophistication of designs and materials used will impact the time required to produce individual 3D prototypes.
Individual 3D printing needs will differ and so the materials used in prototyping will differ also. In rapid prototyping the materials used can range from plasters, resins and advanced polymers. The choice of design material depends on the required durability, lifespan or sophistication level of the model to be fabricated. Fused deposition modeling techniques use liquid polymers from injectors to create models. In this process the 3D Printer injects photopolymers layer by layer on to a base platform and then the materials are cured with ultraviolet light. Inkjet printing techniques differ as they use granular substances such as plaster, powder or corn starch and combine the materials with an adhesive which bonds the model together to produce a 3D prototype.
3D Printer Advantages
The new technology of 3D printing produces advantages in the areas of speed, cost, and simplicity. Engineers and design technicians can use 3D printing during the conceptual stages of design. A rapid prototype enhances the design process by providing a 3 dimensional model of the design. Having an actual model to see and manipulate during various stages of the design process can help designers and engineers to facilitate prototype corrections, enhancements and project completion.
Also, unlike some prototyping techniques the 3D printing advantage produces no toxic chemicals from the process nor uses any toxins during the process. An additional advantage gained from using rapid prototyping technology is post production work is minimal, only the removal of excess materials produced during the printing process is necessary. The advantages of 3D printing are many including reduced costs, efficiency and safety. As new innovations in 3D printing technology become available so will additional advantages.