LDS-Prototyping

LPKF ProtoPaint LDS

The new method for producing prototypes in the field of laser direct structuring (LDS) allows the production of circuit tracks in plastics prototypes. It allows individual layout data to be directly converted into a 3D shape. This eliminates the time- and cost-intensive production of an injection molding tool. Close to series prototypes are created within hours, depending on the component complexity.

The ProtoPaint method

Any random part can be created by 3D prototyping method through e.g. laser sintering, stereolithography or fused deposition modeling (FDM). Various materials such as ceramics, plastics and glass can be used for this purpose.

The component is coated with the LDS dual-component paint consisting of primer and curing agent. The thickness of the layer in this multi-layer coating is ideally 30-40 µm. Once the paint has cured the part is laser structured the same as conventional LDS injection molding parts. The three-dimensional interconnect device is then metallized with the familiar LDS method.

Advantages of the ProtoPaint method

The ProtoPaint LDS paint allows near-series prototypes to quickly be produced for laser direct structuring at a low cost. This innovative spray coat method allows properties comparable to series LDS components to be achieved in the subsequent standard process chain.

Spray coat method in pictures