How does Xerox use laser rapid prototyping in inkjet technology development?
Xerox is using laser rapid prototyping for microfluidic studies and in prototyping and production for electrical interconnect components for its solid inkjet printers. One key advantage of laser prototyping is the flexibility in changing initial designs and the ability to try systematic variations of fluid and electrical interconnect to understand the design performance trade-offs. One of the reasons for the rapidity and flexibility in prototyping is that the design is largely a matter of computer control. By simple changes to a computer program, the design can be changed. Another factor is the feature resolution and accuracy of the laser cutting compared to many of the more common prototyping and production methods. In many cases, if laser prototyping can produce the components needed, it is an advantageous production method as well for both cost and quality.
