Welcome to Vision Miner’s 3D printing news roundup! We’ve got a fantastic lineup today, including groundbreaking developments in orthodontics, nuclear reactors, and exciting new 3D printing technology. Let’s dive right in!
1. Custom 3D Printed Braces Raise $14 Million
Lightforce Orthodontics, founded by industry veterans, recently secured $14 million in funding for their innovative approach to orthodontic braces. These custom braces are 3D printed, providing personalized treatment that reduces wear time and the number of appointments required.
2. Purdue University Receives $800,000 Grant for 3D Printed Nuclear Reactor
Purdue University’s College of Engineering has been awarded an $800,000 grant by the US Department of Energy to accelerate the development of a microreactor. This project will integrate additive manufacturing, computational material modeling, and AI to create components for the reactor, marking a significant step in the nuclear industry’s adoption of AI and 3D printing technologies.
3. Harvard’s Eco-Friendly Shape Memory 3D Printing Material
Harvard researchers have developed an eco-friendly shape memory 3D printing material created from recycled wool. This material can be programmed with reversible shape memory capabilities, offering great potential in the medical prosthesis and textile industries.
4. Introducing the Cultivate 3D Elevator with Medusa Dual Extrusion
Australian-based Cultivate 3D has unveiled the Elevator, a large-format FFF/FDM 3D printer designed to compete with industry giants. This printer features a Medusa dual extrusion system that eliminates the common issues of dual extrusion, allowing for faster, cleaner prints. The price may surprise you, starting at $2,760.
5. Zometry Raises $75 Million in Funding
Zometry, the on-demand manufacturing service, has secured $75 million in an equity funding round. The company offers 3D printing and CNC services and recently added X1 binder jetting to its offerings. The investment was led by T. Rowe Price Associates, among others, and underscores the growing demand for digital manufacturing solutions.
6. NASA’s 3D Printed Batteries for Space Missions
NASA has awarded a contract to Colorado-based Color Technologies to develop 3D printed battery systems for unmanned and robotic space applications. 3D printing batteries in space will significantly reduce costs and allow for more extended missions, with applications in upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
These developments in the world of 3D printing are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. If you’re excited about these advancements as we are, stay tuned for more updates. We love bringing you the latest news in this ever-evolving industry. Make sure to like and subscribe to support our channel and stay informed!