Printed robots with bones, ligaments, and tendons
A new technology enables the printing of complex robots with soft, elastic, and rigid materials in one go. This allows for the creation of delicate structures and parts with cavities as desired.
Additive Manufacturing
Articles tagged with Additive Manufacturing
The Long Jump: Athletic, insect-scale long jumping robots reach where others can't.
A team of engineers from the University of Illinois has developed a long-jumping robot with a lightweight elastomer body and artificial muscle made from coiled nylon fishing line. The robot can jump 60 times its body size in horizontal distance, opening up new possibilities for sensing and exploration applications.
3D printing precisely: Low-cost error compensation for fabrication of high-precision microstructures
Researchers introduced a cost-effective solution to correct tilt and curvature errors in two-photon polymerization 3D printing. The method uses Fourier scatterometry, which offers lower uncertainties than traditional methods, resulting in improved image quality and precision.
To advance space colonization, WVU research explores 3D printing in microgravity
Researchers from West Virginia University are conducting experiments on 3D printing in microgravity conditions to develop materials for long-term space exploration. They found that a titanium dioxide foam can effectively block UV radiation and purify water, making it suitable for use in space habitats.
3D-printed metals with contrasting properties made using new method co-developed by NTU Singapore
Researchers developed a new method that allows designing 3D-printed metal parts with varying strength levels, electrical conductivity, or corrosion resistance. The technique uses 3D-printing steps and can reduce manufacturing costs.
Using lasers to ‘heat and beat’ 3D-printed steel could help reduce costs
A new method for 3D printing metal allows for controlled structural modifications without heating and beating, reducing post-production alteration requirements. The technique enables the production of strong and tough metals with comparable performance to traditional methods.
3D printed reactor core makes solar fuel production more efficient
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel 3D printing methodology to manufacture porous ceramic structures for efficient solar radiation transport, resulting in twice as much fuel production as uniform structures. The technology has the potential to improve sustainable aviation fuels' economic viability.
Inspection method increases confidence in laser powder bed fusion 3D printing
Researchers developed a method combining sensor data with machine-learning algorithm to identify flaws in 3D-printed parts. The framework allows for statistically verified quality control, reducing the need for human involvement in manufacturing inspection.
CityU joint research creates 3D-printed aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance
A team of researchers from City University of Hong Kong and Shanghai Jiao Tong University has developed a novel aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance using advanced 3D printing techniques. The new alloy, called NTD-Al, surpasses the fatigue strength of high-strength wrought Al alloys and conventional metals.
Will module assembly become the next generation of engineering modality for vascularized organotypic tissues?
Engineers use module assembly to develop vascularized organotypic tissues with high cell density and well-organized vasculature. This approach enables the rapid generation of functional tissue substitutes with improved efficacy in treating diseases.
Metallic powders: paving the way for industrial applications of laser powder bed fusion
Recent progress in metallic powders characterization, preparation, and reuse for laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) enhances printing consistency and reduces costs. Novel cost-effective methods like fluidized bed and cold mechanically derived method are emerging to prepare powders.
Unlocking innovation: Multistable mechanical metamaterials’ evolution in design, manufacturing, and applications
Multistable mechanical metamaterials can switch between multiple stable configurations under external loading, making them reusable and efficient for quick action. Their unique properties make them promising for various engineering applications, including energy absorption, soft actuators/robots, and wave control.
X-rays reveal microstructural fingerprints of 3D-printed alloy
Researchers at Cornell University developed a novel approach to explore microstructure emergence in 3D-printed metal alloys using X-ray bombarding. The technique reveals 'microstructural fingerprints' that capture the history of the material during processing, allowing for customized materials with improved performance.
Micro/nanoscale 4D printing revolution: Manufacturing high-resolution transformable 3D structures
Researchers introduce a game-changing technology that enables fabrication of high-resolution, transformable 3D structures at the micro/nanoscale using Two-photon polymerization-based (TTP-based) 4D printing. The technology has vast potential for applications in biomedicine, flexible electronics, soft robotics, and aerospace.
The past and present of 3D-printed critical materials for rechargeable batteries
Recent research highlights the excellent electrochemical performance of critical 3D printing materials in rechargeable batteries. The study outlines the typical characteristics of major 3D printing methods used in fabricating electrochemical energy storage devices and discusses crucial materials for 3D printing of rechargeable batterie...
3D-printed plasmonic plastic enables large-scale optical sensor production
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed 3D-printed plasmonic plastic, enabling the mass production of optical sensors that can detect hydrogen gas. The composite material has unique optical properties, allowing it to filter out molecules except hydrogen, making it ideal for various applications.
Benefit breakdown, 3D printed vs. wood molds
A study by Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that 3D-printed molds are economically beneficial for precast concrete production compared to traditional wood molds. The analysis also showed that optimized mold designs can reduce energy demand and carbon emissions.
3D-printed ‘living material’ could clean up contaminated water
Researchers have developed a sustainable solution to clean contaminated water using 3D-printed 'living material' containing genetically engineered bacteria that produce an enzyme to transform organic pollutants. The material's surface area and geometry optimize bacterial growth and decontamination efficiency.
Researchers to explore 3D printing medication tailored to pediatric patients
A Texas A&M University team is exploring 3D printing to create tailored medication dosage and tablet size for young children, addressing the need for greater flexibility in administering medications. The project aims to maintain drugs' integrity and effectiveness while advancing the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing.
$1 million grant helping empower students to succeed in the ‘fourth industrial revolution’
The University of Missouri is using a $1 million grant to develop an Industry 4.0 lab, providing engineering students with hands-on learning experiences in the latest industrial revolution's technology-centered job market. The lab will integrate skills at a higher level and keep students at the state-of-the-art level for industry.
Technology advance could expand the reach of 3D nanoprinting
Researchers develop low-cost 3D nanoprinting system with nanometer-level accuracy for printing microlenses, metamaterials, and micro-optical devices. The system uses a two-step absorption process and integrated fiber-coupled laser diode, making it accessible to scientists beyond optical experts.
Building bacteria: researchers use cyanobacteria to ‘grow’ stronger sand-based construction materials
Cyanobacteria can solidify inorganic materials like CO2, making them valuable for sustainable construction. Researchers developed an additive co-fabrication manufacturing process using bacterial strains and robotics.
Fiber-infused ink enables 3D-printed heart muscle to beat
Researchers at Harvard developed a fiber-infused ink that allows 3D-printed heart muscle cells to align and contract like human heart cells, enabling the creation of functional heart ventricles. The innovation can be used to build life-like heart tissues with thicker muscle walls, paving the way for regenerative therapeutics.
This 3D printed gripper doesn’t need electronics to function
A team of roboticists developed a 3D printed soft robotic gripper that can pick and release objects without electronics. The device is printed in one go and features built-in gravity and touch sensors.
PolyU researchers collaboratively develop high-performance titanium alloys through additive manufacturing
The research team produced a new strong, ductile, and sustainable titanium alloy through additive manufacturing, exhibiting better mechanical performance than traditional methods. This innovation addresses waste management issues in titanium alloy production, enabling recycling of off-grade sponge titanium.
A whole new dimension for 3D printing
The new method creates complex 3D shapes in seconds by applying heat to pre-folded flat sheets with origami patterns. This innovation has the potential to mitigate issues with traditional 3D printing, such as material wastage and long print times, and can be used in various fields like fashion, disaster recovery, and more.
Rapid fabrication of a polymer lens on a laser chip for miniaturized spectroscopy
Researchers successfully fabricate a microlens on a single-mode polarization-stable VCSEL chip using 2-photon-polymerization 3D printing, reducing beam divergence from 14.4° to 3° and enabling compact optical gas sensors with improved performance.
Investigating the porous metals in orthopedic implants and beyond
Research discusses challenges and future directions for porous metallic implant fabrication, focusing on microstructure, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. The review aims to promote metabolite and nutrient exchange, bone ingrowth, and improved implant-tissue anchorage.
Scientists developed 180% relative bandwidth microwave absorber by ultrafast UV laser
Researchers developed a new approach to create a wideband microwave absorption metamaterial using ultraviolet lasers, achieving high absorption performance and control over electrical and magnetic properties. The process enables mass production of complex structures without post-treatment.
Researchers create highly conductive metallic gel for 3D printing
Scientists have developed a metallic gel that allows for highly conductive 3D printing at room temperature. The gel, which is 97.5% metal, enables the creation of electronic components and devices with unprecedented conductivity.
How do ceramic particles strengthen metallic copper?
Scientists review preparation techniques for copper matrix composites with ceramic particles, enhancing mechanical properties and thermal conductivity. The study highlights the importance of particle characterization, interfacial bonding, and advanced preparation methods to optimize composite performance.
Will robotic assisted in situ bioprinting become the next generation of surgical modality for cartilage repair?
The technique has the potential to overcome major shortcomings associated with conventional bioprinting, allowing real-time wound treatment and immediate anastomosis with native tissue. However, challenges remain, including integration with surrounding tissues and limited access to defect sites in articular joints.
New 3D-printing method builds structures with two metals
Washington State University engineers have created a way to 3D-print two types of steel in the same circular layer using two welding machines. The resulting bimetallic material proved stronger than either metal alone due to pressure caused between the metals as they cool together.
Researchers have 3D printed the world’s smallest wineglass using a new technique
Scientists at KTH Royal Institute of Technology created the smallest glass structure by 3D printing with sub-micrometer resolution. The new method eliminates thermal treatment requirements, enabling customized applications in medical machinery, robotics, and telecommunications.
Researchers develop a new method of programmable multi-interface droplet printing
The study proposes a new method called programmable pulsed aerodynamic printing (PPAP) that enables precise generation of multi-interface droplets with varying Z numbers. This technology has broad potential for applications such as cell encapsulation, controlled drug release, and self-assembly.
Creating artificially engineered organs could become quicker and easier
Researchers have developed a new manufacturing pipeline to simplify and advance high-value manufacturing of tissue-compatible organs, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. This breakthrough aims to address the dire need for artificially engineered organs and tissue grafts, potentially saving thousands of lives in the UK.
Programmable 3D printed wound dressing could improve treatment for burn, cancer patients
Researchers created a new type of wound dressing material using advanced polymers, enabling customized dressings with fine-tuned surface adhesion. The material has potential applications in burn treatment and drug delivery for cancer patients, providing constant medication release outside the clinic setting.
From functional to intelligent: laser powder bed fusion additive manufactured NiTi shape memory alloys
Researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology have developed a systematic review of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF)-fabricated NiTi alloys. The study highlights the effect of process parameters on printability, mechanical properties, and functional behaviors of NiTi shape memory alloys. These findings provide evidence for...
Simultaneous multi-material embedded printing for 3D heterogeneous structures
Researchers developed a novel printing method that controls the precise deposition of bioink in embedding medium, achieving accurate and homogeneous structures. The method enables the creation of complex three-dimensional structures with multiple materials, which has potential applications in manufacturing heterogeneous tissue models.
New ‘designer’ titanium alloys made using 3D printing
Researchers have developed strong and ductile titanium alloys by integrating alloy and 3D-printing process designs, enabling new sustainable applications in aerospace, biomedical, and energy technologies. The breakthrough utilizes circular economy thinking to produce alloys from industrial waste and low-grade materials.
Using 3D printing to improve implantable biomedical devices, touchscreens and more
McGill researchers are developing a new technique using 3D printing and hydrogels to create biomedical devices that conform to the human body. This emerging technology, called soft ionotronics, has the potential to improve wearable and implantable devices, such as strain sensors for neuromuscular rehabilitation.
Novel 3D printing method a ‘game changer’ for discovery, manufacturing of new materials
A novel 3D printing method called high-throughput combinatorial printing (HTCP) produces materials with unique compositions and properties at microscale spatial resolution. This approach has the potential to accelerate materials discovery, particularly for clean energy and biomedical applications.
Turning waste into treasure: Second-tier structure matters for regulating liquid spreading dynamics
Researchers have developed a simplified surface design that enables liquid directional steering on the same surface as conventional designs. The new surface topography features dual reentrant curvatures and microgrooves, which regulate liquids' spreading dynamics. This innovation simplifies fabrication and opens up practical applications.
Small but mighty: insect-inspired microphones #ASA184
Researchers develop bio-inspired microphones that detect specific signals without consuming a lot of energy or requiring supervision. These miniature sensors are ideal for hazardous or hard-to-reach applications.
A cocktail party of 3D-printed robot heads #ASA184
Researchers created 3D-printed talking heads to simulate conversations and assess acoustic properties. The project aims to improve human hearing algorithms and develop more realistic listening experiences.
‘Gluing’ soft materials without glue (video)
Scientists have discovered a universal method to bond soft materials together using electricity, eliminating the need for traditional adhesives. The new technique, called electroadhesion, uses oppositely charged materials to form strong bonds that can withstand gravity and last for years.
Texas A&M researcher receives $3M National Science Foundation manufacturing grant
A Texas A¼M researcher has received a $3M NSF grant to test 3D printing living matter for substituting petroleum-based plastics in packaging, furniture and construction industries. The project aims to create locally available materials that can generate domestic jobs.
How spheres become worms
Scientists have identified a novel mechanism of gel formation in synthetic polymers, which leads to the creation of worm-like structures. This breakthrough has significant implications for biofabrication and could lead to the development of new medical implants, contact lenses, and other applications.
Thinking on different wavelengths to improve photopolymer-based 3D printing
Xiayun Zhao receives $657,610 NSF CAREER Award for her research in photopolymer additive manufacturing. She aims to develop a smart digital light processing method that uses two wavelengths to control curing and curb exposure, improving the accuracy and strength of printed parts.
Researchers 3D print a miniature vacuum pump
MIT researchers developed a miniature vacuum pump for portable mass spectrometers, overcoming design limitations of traditional pumps. The 3D-printed pump can create and maintain lower pressure vacuums, increasing the device's lifetime and enabling its use in remote locations and space exploration.
A new European-funded project to revolutionize bioprinting of living materials
The PRISM-LT project aims to create an adaptable platform for 3D bioprinting of living tissue with dynamic functionalities and predictable shapes, using a novel tunable bioink that fosters a symbiotic relationship between stem cells and microorganisms.
ARRS Annual Meeting: 4D flow MRI, 3D phantoms benefit atrial fibrillation patients
Researchers found that correctly occluded left atrial appendages minimized left atrial flow stasis and thrombogenicity using 4D flow MRI and 3D phantoms. The study provides a clinical goal for the procedure in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Entering an ERA of 3D printing even for DNAs and proteins
Researchers have developed a novel 3D printing strategy that preserves the folding structure and molecular function of various biopolymers, enabling precise control over size and geometry at submicron resolution. The technique allows for the production of 3D biopolymeric architectures with functional integrity and biofunctions.
Assessing the accuracy of artery models
Hokkaido University researchers evaluate a material used to build model arteries, finding it suitable for medical education and surgical practice. The study also highlights the potential for improved assessment of 3D printing technology in creating highly accurate models of individual patient's artery structure.
New breakthrough: 3D printed ferroelectric materials proven to eliminate harmful bacteria including E coli
Researchers at the University of Bath have successfully created antimicrobial ferroelectric composite materials using a novel 3D printing process. These materials can eradicate E coli bacteria within 15 minutes, with potential applications in heart valves, stents, and bone implants.
UTEP joins project to 3D print batteries from lunar and Martian soil
The University of Texas at El Paso has joined a $2.5 million NASA-led project to develop 3D-printed rechargeable batteries using lunar and Martian regolith. Researchers will utilize additive manufacturing processes, such as material extrusion and vat photopolymerization, to produce shape-conformable batteries for space applications.
A recipe for 3D-printing food
University of Ottawa researchers Ezgi Pulatsu and Chibuike Udenigwe identified crucial factors impacting the print quality and shape complexity of edible materials produced by additive manufacturing. By optimizing these features, food quality can be improved, control increased, and printing speed enhanced.
Honey, the 3D print--I mean, dessert--is ready!
Researchers create a 3D-printing system to construct cheesecake from edible food inks, enabling customizable foods with improved nutrient content. The technology could address issues with low-nutrient processed foods, making it appealing for individuals with dietary restrictions and those requiring personalized nutrition.
Carnegie Mellon to lead NASA Space Technology Research Institute
The institute aims to shorten the cycle required to design, manufacture, and test parts that can withstand space travel conditions. It will develop detailed computer models of additively manufactured parts using digital twins.
Low-cost device can measure air pollution anywhere
A low-cost, open-source device called Flatburn can measure air pollution using 3D printing or inexpensive parts. Researchers have tested and calibrated it against existing state-of-the-art machines, making it suitable for community groups and individual citizens to track local air quality.