The new LPKF ProtoLaser 3D presented at Productronica 2013 in Munich completes the process chain for LDS prototyping. With the products ProtoPaint LDS paint, ProtoLaser 3D, and ProtoPlate LDS, complete 3D MID prototyping – often in just a single day – will be possible in the future.
 
The first step is activation of the ProtoPaint LDS-painted plastic components. This can be done in one pass with a thorough coating of the new ProtoPaint. Previously three to four layers were necessary. Laser direct structuring of the component is then performed using the new LPKF ProtoLaser 3D, which features a 500 x 500 mm work table with a z-axis travel of 200 mm. A pilot laser and a powerful vision system facilitate setup. The laser optical elements on the ProtoLaser 3D correspond to those of the LDS production systems. The scan volume has dimensions of 100 mm, 100 mm, and 40 mm in the x, y, and z directions, respectively. The LDS design rules also apply to the prototyping process.

The ProtoLaser 3D can import data from all common layout programs and is shipped with the powerful LPKF CircuitPro 3D CAM software. A simple, low-cost component holder is sufficient for structuring because no mechanical stresses arise in the process. The vision system detects fiducials and component contours to facilitate structuring in different positions. After being structured the component can be electrolessly metallized directly with ProtoPlate LDS. With this new and improved product series, LPKF closes the gap between design and mass production – and simplifies and accelerates LDC prototyping to shorten time to market.

More information can be found on the ProtoLaser S product page.