News & Insights

Nitinol Cookout
Nitinol Cookout

Conrad reviews shape-memory alloy properties and shares a Root3 Labs hack on how to heat-set Nitinol parts at a low cost.

Multi-Material 3D-Printing
Multi-Material 3D-Printing

Last year Root3 Labs experimented with multi-material 3D-printing to deliver prototypes that simulated a button and gasket that would be overmolded in production. We were very happy with the results and our client was quite pleased that we were able to quickly iterate...

3D Printed Parts in Product Design
3D Printed Parts in Product Design

At a recent 3D Maryland “3D Innovators Group” event, I presented a few short case studies of recent projects to describe how I’ve used 3D printing as both a tool to evaluate a design and as a finished demonstration prototype.

Using Rapid Prototyping in Product Development
Using Rapid Prototyping in Product Development

Recently, I gave a presentation at the Baltimore Lean Startup Meetup about how I’ve used rapid prototyping during the product development process to iterate, test, and refine the design in something akin to Lean Startup techniques. It was a great evening, with presentations about using Lean Startup techniques for process improvement in big businesses, improving patient outcomes from heart surgery, and moving a print company into the digital future.

Evolution of Desktop 3D Printers
Evolution of Desktop 3D Printers

I love watching the evolution of 3D printers as they become more available to the consumer. Now, you can find one under $1,000 or even one that fits inside a briefcase. Cool.

Lean Startup in the Non-Startup

Come join me at the Baltimore Lean Startup event, Lean Startup in the Non-Startup, on Tuesday, August 21, 6pm on the CCBC campus. Along with several other interesting speakers, I'll be talking about the impact of rapid prototyping on product development and how it's...

Building a Presentation Prototype
Building a Presentation Prototype

Being able to present a physical embodiment of your product idea can go a long way toward impressing potential partners, funding, marketing, or otherwise. But, what’s the best approach for creating that prototype on a tight budget?

FDA’s fast-track process at issue

Consumer Reports has recently directed their criticism toward the FDA, particularly the procedures for accelerated approvals for devices and drugs. They argue that current procedures have allowed defective or insufficiently-tested devices into the marketplace, with harmful results for the patient.

Triangle of Requirements
Triangle of Requirements

“You can get something good, cheap, or fast. Pick two.” I’ve heard it many times, but what is it about? I’ve found that it comes down to planning.

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