HiETA TECHNOLOGIES

HiETA Technologies Ltd is a product design, development and production company who specialise in the use of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies including Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), and Laser Cutting (LC). During AM processes, digital 3D design data is used to “grow” components by depositing layers of materials in fine powder form. These techniques increase 3D design opportunities and gives engineers the flexibility to create more compact and efficient products.

The SLM process used by HiETA dramatically reduces the time and cost of early concept development and prototyping, whilst creating functional components that can be used during the production process. These components often include complex, optimised geometries using lattices which makes them lighter and more efficient than components made using conventional manufacturing techniques. Component performance is then analysed and verified using HiETA’s in-house 1D modelling, CFD, FEA and practical testing capabilities.

To ensure component quality and process reliability, HiETA wanted to develop in-process monitoring which required bespoke printed circuit boards (PCBs). The aim of the system was to capture an image of the build chamber before and after each layer was processed. This would enable HiETA to carry out process quality verification and post build analysis to ensure components meet their strict quality standards.

HiETA were aware of Cubik’s expertise in PCB design and manufacture and approached us for the development of 3 sets of bespoke PCBs. Using the design concept produced by HiETA, we quickly developed a prototype of the system to demonstrate how it would work. We then used Altium Designer to develop the schematics and produce a PCB design that was manufacture ready. Once completed, everything was passed over to our in-house production department who assembled a batch of 3 PCB’s, tested the operation and delivered them to HiETA. From concept to delivery, the whole process took less than 4 weeks.

Speaking about his experience working with Cubik, HiETA’s Adrian Schmeider said:

“Cubik’s quick turn-around of a functioning PCB has sped the delivery of the project and enabled me to focus on areas of the project in which HiETA has expertise. The project is a great success and produced valuable information even from its first use. I am very impressed with the support Cubik provided throughout the project, from initial concept through to PCB delivery. I will not hesitate to engage with them again as future PCB projects arise.”

Cubik Innovation have extensive experience in PCB design and manufacture. For more information or to speak to one of our experts, get in touch.