'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, 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 InVision multi-jet 3D printers, stereolithography, and selective laser sintering. Tangible Express operates and maintains the equipment and will build and ship parts according to 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 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