formlabs fuse depowdering kit
Perfect for low-volume users, this all-in-one manual post-processing kit for SLS is an alternative to Fuse Sift that enables you to easily clean parts and recover and mix the used powder to prepare for the next print, all at an affordable price point.
Duration
Summer 2023
Info
Internship Project at Formlabs
My Role
Industrial Design, Packaging Design, Prototyping & Testing, DFM
Background
I joined this project midway through the R&D phase, focusing on testing the usability of the full depowdering process with prototypes to refine the initial design. I collaborated closely with the engineering and marketing team, ensuring the product was optimized for production and ready for launch.
My Contribution
- Worksurface rib pattern
- Power Bin
- Part Bin grate
- CMF
- Label icon
- Packaging insert
- Tool selection
- Sample inspection
- How to Use Instruction
Worksurface rib pattern
The rib pattern is designed to reinforce structure while also acting as a visual guide, facilitating multiple interactions for a more intuitive user experience. Key considerations also include ease of cleaning and maximizing the flat working surface.
indicate build chamber position
indicate Tool Bin placement
Guide pouring powder
powder bin
The Powder Bin is designed to collect a full build volume of powder from the sifter. Key considerations include preventing leaks, optimizing space efficiency, ensuring ease of lifting and mobility, and nesting with the Worksurface.
Color
The dark grey color is adopted from the Fuse series, designed to match the color of Formlabs’ powder printing material. I applied this dark grey to parts that will contain powder (Powder Bin and Worksurface).
The light grey color is applied to the Tool Bin and Part Bin to indicate a ‘cleaner’ area and to distinguish them from the powder color, making smaller parts and tools easier to recognize.
Label
Instead of using English words to label the bins, I created icons to convey information more universally. The icons represent ‘powder from the sifter,’ ‘depowering tools,’ and ‘3D printed parts.’ The main challenge is to find the right level of detail that ensures readability in a chaotic environment while providing enough information for users with less experience in 3D printing to understand easily.
Packaging insert
This kit contains many loose parts in different shapes, and our goal was to design a packaging insert that secures them while ensuring efficient assembly and sustainability in material use.
Instruction
To assist the filming team in understanding how to use the kit, I created a step-by-step illustrated guide, which was later transformed into a workflow video.
