Re: ANN: StlWork Lite released

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., "Ian Wright" <Ian@i...> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> ProDesktop is now in use at a lot of British Schools for Design and
> Technology learning. I just went on a tour around the REACT centre
>in
> Rotherham which does direct prototyping and is working with several
>local
> schools to realise in full 3D epoxy resin the parts they design on
> ProDesktop. This must be quite gratifying for the kids, being able
>to actually handle a
> professional looking part they have designed within a few days but
>its not
> 'real machining' as we know it!!

It's all part of the Health and Safety agenda. You can't get your
fingers stuck in a floppy drive <g>
Boxfords are doing roughly the same with CNC. The schools buys the
package from Boxford of 'X' workstations. The kids design the part,
download it to Boxfords and watch on a video link the part being cut
on their machine.
I realise that H&S has a place but it's now getting like the unions
were and is getting to powerful for little or no return. I had a
trainee up until last year but the hassle I had from H&S people who
had no idea of the trade forced me to stop this.
One example, the guy wanted a guard ALL round the wheel on a brand
new CE marked angle grinder.
Talking to other shop owners they also have the same thoughts. It's
killing an industry that should be trying to move forward.
End of rant.

John S.