AlphaAtlas
[H]ard|Gawd
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Researchers from the University of Michigan's engineering department have discovered a way to 3D print complex shapes "up to 100 times faster" than conventional 3D printers. Instead of laying down plastic filaments or other materials layer by layer, the researcher use two lights to selectively solidify liquid resin. Apparently, the researchers already used the technique to print complex objects, like a lattice structure and a boat with columns holding up a roof. They also claim the technique can be adapted to use harder materials, and that their printers have significant economic advantages over traditional 3D printers when objects need to be mass produced. The university posted the full research paper online
Check out a video of the 3D printer here.
The key to success is the chemistry of the resin. In conventional systems, there is only one reaction. A photoactivator hardens the resin wherever light shines. In the Michigan system, there is also a photoinhibitor, which responds to a different wavelength of light. Rather than merely controlling solidification in a 2D plane, as current vat-printing techniques do, the Michigan team can pattern the two kinds of light to harden the resin at essentially any 3D place near the illumination window. The University of Michigan has filed three patent applications to protect the multiple inventive aspects of the approach, and Scott is preparing to launch a startup company.
Check out a video of the 3D printer here.
The key to success is the chemistry of the resin. In conventional systems, there is only one reaction. A photoactivator hardens the resin wherever light shines. In the Michigan system, there is also a photoinhibitor, which responds to a different wavelength of light. Rather than merely controlling solidification in a 2D plane, as current vat-printing techniques do, the Michigan team can pattern the two kinds of light to harden the resin at essentially any 3D place near the illumination window. The University of Michigan has filed three patent applications to protect the multiple inventive aspects of the approach, and Scott is preparing to launch a startup company.