Most design decisions are made up-front in the design process. Typically the first 10% of the product development process affects about 80% of the products total cost. These decisions are made during the initial or concept stage of the development process.

Typically, designers and engineers rely on 3D CAD software at this stage. But significant challenges arise using only a computer screen or color printer output to communicate the true design details to management, marketing, vendors and others on the design team.

Functional 3D models, created on a Dimension, enable the designer and all others on the design team to make better informed design decisions, resulting in fewer design changes, better product designs, lower production costs and lower product costs. Historically, businesses that have relied on RP parts have either used expensive, time consuming service bureaus or have utilized high-end RP systems that require dedicated operators, modified site requirements and a long learning curve. Today companies are turning to low cost 3D Printing systems that deliver quality parts, allowing the designer to iterate designs quickly, testing for form, fit and function.

3D printing has never been more affordable. Priced from under £15,000, Dimension can pay for itself faster than you think. If you send service bureaus one part a week, Dimension could pay for itself in under a year.

The Dimension product line features five desktop Printers, the Dimension BST 768 & 1200es (Breakaway Support Technology), the Dimension SST 768 & 1200es (Soluble Support Technology) and the Dimension Elite. All systems produce high quality ABS parts that allow the designer to test for form, fit and function. All systems are desktop systems, which operate in an office environment. These networked printers are very easy to install and operate. Utilizing the Dimension Catalyst™ software, designers can simply click "print" and their design is sent to the printer. From this point on the Dimension takes over and prints a functional model from ABS plastic.