
Realistic Concept Models, Fast
PolyJet continues to be the frontrunner for quickly delivering highly cosmetic models. Read the ArticleIf you haven’t noticed the influx of young and hip stand up paddle boarders gliding across oceans and lakes, bedecked in fashionable swimwear and trendy sunglasses, you clearly haven’t been near any substantial body of water for a good decade. Stand up paddle boarding, or SUP, has seen an increase in popularity, with an estimated 3 million outdoor enthusiasts partaking in the water activity yearly. It attracts both young and older crowds looking for a more leisurely way to get around in the water. SUP doesn’t demand the kind of high level of athleticism associated with surfing or kayaking, although don’t let that lull you into a false sense of superiority; unless you’re naturally gifted with perfect balance and decent quad muscles, expect to fall off frequently while you’re learning the ropes.
The sport might look relaxing, but think of it more as bridging the divide between those who want to burn some serious calories and folks looking to get a little exercise while enjoying a lake or sunny beach. Closing that divide further is Current Drives, a company that manufactures electric motors for stand up paddle boards, kayaks and canoes. The Current Drives ElectraFin® can maintain a cool speed of 5 mph for two hours or much longer at reduced speeds. It allows those of us with less experience to keep up with our veteran SUP friends, and aids the more serious SUP boarders and fisherman who are more likely to be out battling stronger winds and currents, thanks to a little extra push from the ElectraFin propeller.
The original propeller design, shown above, relied on Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing and Laser Sintering with flexible and filled nylons for functional testing.
Realistic Concept Models, Fast
PolyJet continues to be the frontrunner for quickly delivering highly cosmetic models. Read the ArticleQuality Assurance in AM
How we maintain strict quality guidelines to ensure we deliver industry-leading standards Read the ArticleFive Steps to Mass Production
Key steps to help designers and engineers reach mass production and product success.Key steps to help designers and engineers reach mass production and product success.
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