Automotive

3D Systems new McLaren technology partner

In the build up to the Japanese Grand Prix, the West McLaren Mercedes team is pleased to announce that 3D Systems, the world-leader in rapid prototyping technology, has joined its portfolio of Technology Partners, following a signing ceremony at the ...

Published: Oct 10, 2003, 11:59 AM

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In the build up to the Japanese Grand Prix, the West McLaren Mercedes team is pleased to announce that 3D Systems, the world-leader in rapid prototyping technology, has joined its portfolio of Technology Partners, following a signing ceremony at the United States Grand Prix attended by John Murray, Director of Global Business Development, Motorsports at 3D Systems, and McLaren International's Managing Director, Martin Whitmarsh.

The long-term Technology Partnership will see 3D Systems supply the West McLaren Mercedes team with new state-of-the-art Rapid Prototyping Stereolithography SLA® 7000 systems. The SLA 7000 systems produce components from CAD models for wind tunnel and car build development work using resin and laser technology in short timeframes, reducing production cycles with no restrictions on shape. The Partnership will also involve dual research and development programmes of the materials and technology utilised.

"We are delighted about our new collaboration with 3D Systems," said Martin Whitmarsh. "West McLaren Mercedes operates at the cutting edge of technology within the world of motorsport, and the advanced Rapid Prototyping Stereolithography machining capability provided by 3D Systems will help to ensure we remain competitive in all areas of our activities. With the new machines we will have more flexibility and increased capacity, improving on reaction times and production cycles. 24 hours after a component is designed it can be ready for wind tunnel use, dramatically speeding up the process in comparison with a traditional manufacturing cycle."

"The machines will also allow us to bring all our RPS requirements in-house, thereby providing us with the benefits of total control. To ensure continuity during the development process for the 2004 season, 3D Systems will provide equipment in our current Formula One facility for immediate use in conjunction with installation into the McLaren Technology Centre."

"This agreement further demonstrates 3D Systems' commitment to delivering advanced engineering solutions to leading edge companies," said Mike Kelly, 3D Systems' European Director of Sales and Marketing. "McLaren International, has invested a significant amount of resource, in working with us over recent years to develop advanced applications that significantly enhance the performance of its race cars and it is therefore particularly rewarding for 3D Systems to now become West McLaren Mercedes' official Technology Partner for Rapid Prototyping Stereolithography."

"As with all 3D Systems technical partnerships, we'll work together to develop and deliver the next generation of materials for prototyping and rapid stereolithography. The initial projects are focused on Aerodynamic application development but McLaren will also benefit from 3D Systems considerable experience in other areas of the development process."

"We are delighted to announce our new partnership with the West McLaren Mercedes team. 3D Systems aggressively seeks out technical partnerships with organisations who are at the forefront of their industry. In time, the experience gained in delivering solutions for advanced product development and manufacturing in Formula 1 will benefit many other organisations within industries such as aerospace, defence, medical and consumer product development," adds John Murray.

-mclaren-

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