Prototyping

Quick creation of functional prototypes is a key aspect of our product development process. From proof of concept through validation, turnaround time and speed to market is where we excel.

Rapid Prototyping

dlhBOWLES has invested in a wide range of Additive Manufacturing (AM) machines and prototyping processes to serve the prototype needs of our customers. Currently the AM Laboratory is equipped with two Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) machines and two Photopolymer machines, from industry leading manufacturers Envisiontec and Stratasys.

Since its commissioning in January 2007, the dlhBOWLES AM laboratory has to date produced nearly 17,000 prototype parts.  These prototypes are produced for both internal and external customers in Engineering, R&D, Quality, Assembly and Injection Molding teams. Parts can utilized for many purposes including internal design reviews, functional prototypes, short run assembly equipment, and samples for customer trials and external design reviews.

CNC Milling

Our R&D department also produces prototypes using dedicated CNC mills. Using Pro/Engineer’s Manufacturing capabilities, we are able to evaluate and manipulate design iterations in a matter of hours. In addition, we are also able to produce moderate quantities of machined components to accommodate system prototype development or consumer trials. For larger or more complex designs, dlhBOWLES has on-site, full-service machine shops, staffed by expert machinists.