'Fractional ownership' makes rapid prototyping more affordable.A collaboration between 3D Systems Corp., Rock Hill, S.C., and two-year old rapid-prototyping service bureau Tangible Express in Springville, Utah Springville is a city in Utah County, Utah, United States. The population was 20,424 at the 2000 census and by 2004 had been estimated at 21,507. Just minutes south of Provo, Springville is treated as a bedroom community for commuters who work in Salt Lake City and Provo, Utah. , has spawned a novel fractional-ownership program in manufacturing. The Tangible Alliance Program (TAP) allows users to purchase single or multiple shares ("fractions") of a 3D Systems rapid-prototyping and rapid-manufacturing system that is owned and operated by Tangible Express. The number of shares purchased would depend on the buyer's anticipated annual system use. The buyer would gain access to the technology at much less than the cost of buying a system. The smallest ownership fraction is 1/16, which can be applied to any 3D Systems equipment, including In Vision multi-jet 3D printers, stereolithography The first 3D printing technology, which was pioneered by Chuck Hull of 3D Systems. See 3D printing. , and selective laser sintering See laser sintering and 3D printer. . Tangible Express operates and maintains the equipment and will build and ship parts according to according to prep. 1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians. 2. In keeping with: according to instructions. 3. the TAP fractional-owners' requirements. It can make prototypes using a broad range of materials within a couple of days. Tangible Express can help prospective customers analyze their annual parts usage to determine whether fractional ownership In business, fractional ownership is a percentage share of an expensive asset. Shares are sold to individual owners. A fractional owner enjoys priorities and privileges, such as reduced rates, priority access on holidays and income sharing. is the best option for them. As an alternative, the company can provide its rapid-prototyping service on a project basis. Tel: (888) 727-8522 * www.tangibleexpress.com |
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