BACKGROUND
3D printing enables on-demand manufacturing of complex designs for various applications in different industries. The layer-by-layer construction of parts in 3D printing can provide opportunities to customize products' properties for specific service conditions. The individualized processing of each layer has opened new horizons for 3D printing of multifunctional materials and structures. However, the axis limitation of available printers requires individualized processing of each layer when reduction manufacturing has been taking advantage of multi-axis and multi-material materials for years. With on-demand production, 3D printing allows companies to satisfy the demand for certain parts, without having to consider the high costs of mass-production. Thus, allowing a company to be more agile.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Oklahoma State Researchers have devised and tested a 3D additive manufacturing process that improves upon conventional 3D printers available today. The technology allows for an additive printer to not only deposit material in the vertical direction but also allows for layers laid out in one or more horizontal directions, and even another in the negative vertical direction. Currently the only method to increase efficiency is to adjust the direction of printing. While effective the novel 3D additive manufacturing process will build on current best practices.
While plastics have been tested thus far and have shown to retain strength and material characteristics, the process is applicable to metal and biologic printing. With the use of multiple printer heads, this method also allows for multiple materials and the added strength and properties that come with them.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
MAIN ADVANTAGES
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT
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