Connecting SOLIDWORKS Users to Rapid Prototyping and Production Services

MAPLE PLAIN, Minn.--Quick-turn manufacturer Proto Labs, Inc. (NYSE: PRLB) has joined the MySolidWorks Manufacturing Network, created to connect SOLIDWORKS users with reliable manufacturers in the 3D printing, sheet metal, CNC machining and injection molding industry. The network provides users with quick access to manufacturing resources like Proto Labs that, in turn, have a direct link to more than 2.5 million SOLIDWORKS users.

Once connected to Proto Labs, designers can upload a 3D CAD model and receive an interactive quote with manufacturability analysis within hours. Proto Labs advanced additive, machining and molding processes manufacture custom prototypes and low-volume production parts in as fast as one day.

"We are excited to partner with SOLIDWORKS in this new way, to make it even easier for SOLIDWORKS users to access Proto Labs services and have their new product designs manufactured in a few days across the range of our services," explains Robert Bodor, Proto Labs VP/General Manager of the Americas. "Our online quoting tools have been designed to make this process seamless, and our global scale allows us to meet the needs of thousands of users a day for both prototyping and production."

SOLIDWORKS WORLD (Feb. 8-11) is currently underway in Phoenix, Arizona where attendees who visit either the Proto Labs or SOLIDWORKS booth have an opportunity to receive a championship-style, 3D-printed ring. The ring was manufactured using Proto Labs SLArmor process, which takes stereolithography—an additive technology that uses an ultraviolet laser to cure thousands of thin layers together to build complex objects—to the next level by plating it with a nickel coating. This provides the look, feel and strength of metal, but without the weight.

About Proto Labs, Inc.
Proto Labs is a leading online and technology-enabled quick-turn manufacturer of custom parts for prototyping and short-run production. Proto Labs provides "Real Parts, Really Fast" by utilizing injection molding, computer numerical control (CNC) machining and additive manufacturing to produce parts for product designers and engineers worldwide. For more information, visit protolabs.com.

About SOLIDWORKS
Powered by the Dassault Systèmes 3DExperience Platform, SOLIDWORKS 3D applications help millions of engineers and designers succeed through innovation. The companys products deliver an intuitive experience in product design, simulation, publishing, data management and environmental impact assessment. For the latest news, information or an online demonstration, visit its website at www.SOLIDWORKS.com or call 1-800-693-9000 (outside of North America, call +1-781-810-5011).