Author Profile Photo

Dan Spillane

Design Engineer and Maker

A design blog and portfolio for sharing how I use additive manufacturing, programming, and 3D data to design and prototype solutions.

Areas of Expertise

3D Printer Extruder Head

Additive Manufacturing

I redesign parts to account for the opportunistic and restrictive properties found in additive manufacturing. 3D models designed for additive manufacturing can benefit from topology optimization, part-consolidation, and integrated multi-material applications. Each additive manufacturing process has constraints such as support material, anisotropy, and post-processing that require thorough consideration to produce a quality finished part.

Voxelized Nittany Lion Head

3D Data Manipulation

The digital manufacturing workflow relies on translating 3D data between formats to fit the manufacturing process. My work emphasizes how the structure of the 3D data can influence and improve the digital design process. This includes repairing mesh volumes, building geometry from point cloud data, and experimenting with voxel models for detailed material assignment.

CAD 3D Modeling

3D modeling is a critical operation in the digital manufacturing workflow. Different 3D modeling programs offer evironments that account for manufacturing processes during the design process. When prototyping new solutions, I look for ways that the modeling program can expedite future iterations using the ideal manufacturing method.

Team Practicum in the PSU Design Den

Interested in Working Together?

Reach Out

I am currently looking for a position as a Design Engineer where I can contribute my experience in additive manufacturing design. If you have an open position or need assistance with a project, feel free to send me an email.