CNC Precision Machining Meets the Art World
The Solution
The client had a graphical representation of the snow globe from an artistic point of view. It was then the job of our design engineers to convert the ideas of the client to a 3D CAD model in our software Solid Works. The first task was to scale the model plane down to the required size, with all the detail from the full sized model being included. Next was to design the base which was made from aluminium with constant consideration for the manufacturing techniques during the design stage. The outside profile of the base was machined on a large CNC lathe and then CNC milling was used to reduce weight on the underside. The base also has 4 feet that were turned on a CNC lathe. Laser engraving was then employed on the base top to add more detail to the snow globe.
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Large Scale CNC Milling
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The Finishing Touches
The plane was designed to sit on a central rod to secure the plane in a specific position, which is the exact angle as the original model. With the plane being scaled and the hole cut out for the rod all done within Solid Works it was then manufactured by SLA rapid prototyping. The globe was then made from clear acrylic to fit within a slot machined in the base and was glued in place to form a water tight seal. With 2 plugs on the underside of the base the process of filling the snow globes could start. With a specific combination of distilled water, snow, washing up liquid and bleach added.
The snow globes were then individually packaged and securely boxed to allow for secure and safe transport while being aesthetically pleasing.
Testimonials
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- Cambridge Consultants
Demanding prototype components produced in days without fuss. Thanks for your help.
Great quality work
- Tasha Trigger
These guys helped me out on a time sensitive project. Very professional and responsive via email.
Highly Recommend
- Mekhalfia Group
Very helpful company, I highly recommend them. They helped our sister company Fiil e-motion with the best solution.
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- Murali V
High speed service as stated.
Mace Group
- Mace Group
What impressed most was not only the quality and attention to detail, but also the professionalism, flexibility, and commitment shown by the team throughout the process.
Figure AI
- Figure AI
The parts you sent arrived in record time and they looked great.
Thorlabs
- Thorlabs
Many thanks to you and the team at Thompson for your support and assistance this year. We do appreciate the excellent job you have done. Would not hesitate to work with you again.
3P Innovation
- 3P Innovation
We carried out a trial order review on the parts you delivered and you have scored perfectly on the form! Really impressed with your work on this project for us, so thank you very much!
Bowyer Engineering
- Bowyer Engineering
Just a quick note to thank you for the big plate you manufactured for me. It all fitted perfectly, and it would have been a disaster for me if it hadn’t been correct or delivered late.
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