Welcome to this week’s edition of Vision Miner 3D Printing News. We’ve got a diverse set of updates, including collaborations between CERN and 3D Systems, innovative ankle implants, and advancements in automotive production lines. Let’s dive right in!
CERN and 3D Systems: Keeping It Cool
CERN, the renowned European research organization, is working with 3D Systems to 3D print components for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Engineers are creating cooling bars to maintain the temperature of the LHCb’s scintillating fibers. These optical fibers emit photons when particles interact with them, and they play a crucial role in the LHC’s operations. To shield the SIPMs from radiation damage and dark noise, CERN turned to 3D printing. The resulting topology-optimized 3D printed cooling bars are capable of cooling the system to an impressive -40°C.
ESPRIT and Alma: Robot Additive Ded Partnership
DP Technologies (ESPRIT) and Alma CAM have joined forces to provide a complete programming solution for robot additive direct energy deposition (DED). Robot additive DED involves 3D printing parts by melting and fusing materials. This partnership aims to offer a comprehensive program for robot additive DED, combining advanced tool path planning for both subtractive and additive processes. Faster and more cost-effective manufacturing methods are on the horizon, and this collaboration is a step in that direction.
FC Barcelona’s 3D Bioprinted Ankle Implants
FC Barcelona’s R&D lab, Barça Innovation Hub, is participating in the Triangle project. This initiative aims to test 3D bioprinted ankle implants designed to reduce recovery times by up to 50%. Collaborating with 12 other companies, including bioprinting firm Cellink, FC Barcelona is testing these ankle implants on its amateur squad. While the star players won’t be receiving these treatments, the goal is to optimize performance and prepare for future commercial releases. This project is part of the Horizon 2020 program, focusing on regenerative therapies for joint tissues.
Renault’s Refactory Circular Automotive Production Line
Renault is building a refactory dedicated to sustainable automotive production near Paris. This facility aims to reduce waste and retrofit vehicles, all while offering 3D printed spare parts services. Additive manufacturing is a key component of this strategy, allowing Renault to minimize downtime and recondition vehicles quickly. The facility will also house an Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence, focusing on 3D printed spare parts and predictive maintenance applications.
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s 3D Printed Glass Optics
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have used multi-material 3D printing to create customized gradient refractive index glass optics. This innovation allows for a range of optical functions to be directly programmed into flat glass components, eliminating the need for curved lenses. The applications of this technology extend to military optics and virtual reality eyewear. The ability to control the refractive index of glass opens new possibilities for optical design.
News Blitz: Rapid Developments in 3D Printing
There are many more exciting developments in the world of 3D printing, including Volkswagen’s enhanced automotive design using 3D printing, advancements in the Israeli 3D printed food sector, 3D printed microbots for drug delivery, and much more. The 3D printing industry is constantly evolving and offering innovative solutions across various domains.
Don’t forget to leave your thoughts and comments on these updates. Your feedback is invaluable to us. If you’re involved in 3D printing or have innovative applications to share, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to help. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, and have a fantastic day!