Invision

If someone told you using an RP system was as easy as sending a Microsoft Word document to your Epson printer, would you believe them? This is how Dominic Ventura, a jewelry manufacturing consultant who is currently working with Mimi So in New York City, describes the InVision HR 3-D Printer. “If you are a Windows-competent person who knows their way around a computer, [minimal] training is all you need to use this RP machine effectively.”

Ventura says the InVision is not only easy to use, but also fast. “You can put 30 ring models on the machine at the end of the day and they’ll be ready the next morning,” he says. But Ventura’s interest in model making speed is unique; while many manufacturers and service bureaus are focused on the speed of high volume production, Ventura is more concerned with the design side of RP. “Not many people look at RP as a key component to design and product development,” he says. “When you have a high end designer-oriented jewelry business like Mimi So, RP can be a great design tool.”

Ventura uses the InVision to build prototypes of designs to determine if they are ready for market. “We ask ourselves if we like the way it looks and feels to determine if we want to move forward with development.” For example, Mimi So was trying to determine the best connection for a drop earring. Ventura built three versions on the InVision, spray painted the models gold, and the staff chose the one they liked best.

Ventura has had experience with two other RP systems marketed to the jewelry industry: the Solidscape T66 and the Viper si2 SLA. In comparison with these other machines, Ventura says the In-Vision’s model resolution is not as crisp. “But you can work around it,” he says. “If you have competent model makers who can work with resins, you can sand, file, and Tripoli these models.” He’s also cast the material directly without problems, and the quality of the machine itself has continued to prove itself. “I rely on this technology every day, and the machine has been very trouble-free,” he says. “The few times I’ve had a problem, the service technicians were here to fix it within a day. The service has been great. But, as with all leading technologies, that service comes at a price.”

For example, Mimi So paid $8,995 to cover all post-warranty maintenance costs. Add to that the ongoing cost of the build and support materials ($213 per lb. and $57 per lb., respectively). “There is material waste in each build,” says Ventura, “so it’s best to run the machine at full capacity.” Such expenses beyond the purchase price of any system should be considered.