Abstract: A rapid method for fabricating a tooling die insert (71) is disclosed. A set of master parts (31, 32) in the shape of the insert is formed using stereolithography or other rapid prototyping techniques (106). The master parts are assembled and a flexible material is molded (109, 56, 57) in them to form a flexible mold (111, 61). The flexible mold is then filled (115) with metal powder and the powder is cold isostatically pressed (117) to solidify it and form a green part. The "green part" is then hot isostatically pressed (118) to form the densifyed tool.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 24, 1997
Date of Patent:
August 10, 1999
Assignee:
Motorola, Inc.
Inventors:
Steven D. Pratt, Sivakumar Muthuswamy, Robert W. Pennisi