Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Sierra Design Studios offers full CAD and prototyping services to assist clients with their custom design projects. Using your drawings, samples, or just an idea, we will work with you to create your own custom pieces, whether one of a kind fine jewelry or production geared for a larger market. With Sierra Design Studios, you’ll find solutions to all of your design needs.
CAD (computer-aided design) is used in place of or in conjunction with traditional design and production techniques. CAD utilizes software to create two-dimensional (2-D) drawings or three-dimensional (3-D) models. Working with your sketches, photos, or ideas, we create a 3-D model of your piece to your exact specifications.
Our design staff works closely with you by sending you mock-ups and renderings for review. We then refine your piece based on your comments and specifications, until you are satisfied. Upon approval the 3-D model is then “out-put” to a CAM device that creates an accurate prototype of your piece.
Your prototype is then ready for molding or casting!
Our design services include:
- Initial free design consultation – take advantage of our experience by learning more about the benefits of working with CAD and whether it’s right for your project.
- CAD model making – we provide mock-ups and renderings for your approval, based on your specifications.
- Rapid prototyping – after you approve your piece, a 3-D model is created by wax milling or growing.
- Casting and molding – we offer comprehensive mold making and casting services.
- We encourage you to use our resources and experience to your advantage. Let us be your one-stop shop for your design and model making needs.
Q & A
What’s the difference between growing and wax milling?
Additive Manufacturing systems can "grow" or "print" a model. The "growing" method creates a model in layers using light sensitive photopolymers which are cured in place by lasers or projectors. "Printing" is a manufacturing technology where a model is created by adding successive layers of thermoplastic material. Wax milling is done using a 4‑axis mill, which accurately produces wax models by removing material from a solid piece of machineable wax.
What about shrinkage?
There is virtually no shrinkage in the creation of the model. There may be minimal shrinkage in casting the model, but there will be shrinkage when and if the model is molded. The original can be sized to compensate for the degree of shrinkage, depending on what kind of mold is used.
What software do you use?
We use Rhino, Matrix and T-splines.
How long does the CAD process take?
The time it takes to go through the CAD model making process varies, depending on the complexity of the part and the amount of reworking that needs to occur throughout the process.
What specs do you need to create a 3-D model?
The more information you provide, the less guesswork for our design staff. Providing as much information as possible works best. However, if you’re just getting started, we can work with you starting with the information you have; we can continue the process with your review of mock-ups and renderings. Your ongoing feedback at each design step clears the way for the next step.
How much does CAD service cost?
We offer an initial free fifteen minute consultation. Once you decide to proceed with our CAD services, there is a $85 per hour fee for design work, with a one hour minimum. The prototyping fee is based on the size and complexity of the part, and can vary.