Largest 3D-Printed Community Nears Completion
In this issue, we cover groundbreaking 3D printing applications and research, a legal battle between major players over critical patents, and the best 3D printers for every need.
- First 3D printed ceramic jaw implanted successfully
- 3D printed pickleball certified by USA Pickleball
- World’s largest 3D printed community nears completion
This Week’s Additive Manufacturing News
World’s largest 3D-printed community nears completion in this fast-growing Texas city
Icon, an Austin-based startup, is nearing completion of the world’s largest 3D-printed community in Georgetown, Texas, consisting of 100 homes built using their advanced 3D printing technology. The project, which began in 2022, showcases the potential for faster, more cost-effective home construction with reduced material waste, positioning 3D printing as a promising solution for future housing needs.
CHANGING THE GAME: No more noise with this 3D printed pickleball
Accel Digital Solutions, a 3D printing startup in Walker, Michigan, has developed a quieter pickleball called the DigiPro, designed to reduce noise while maintaining the standard size, weight, and bounce. Certified by USA Pickleball, this new ball aims to address noise complaints and promote the sport’s continued growth, despite being more expensive than traditional pickleballs.
Stratasys Sues Bambu Lab Over Consumer 3D Printing Patents Stratasys has filed a lawsuit against Bambu Lab, accusing the company of infringing on patents that are integral to consumer 3D printers. This legal battle highlights the growing competition and the importance of intellectual property in the rapidly evolving 3D printing industry.
Video: Charting the Large Format Additive Manufacturing Landscape – JuggerBot 3D
Best 3D Printers for 2024: Top Choices for Every Budget
CNET provides an updated list of the best 3D printers available in 2024, catering to various needs and budgets. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, this guide helps you find the right 3D printer for your projects.
Researchers Innovate with 3D-Printed Floors to Replace Steel Researchers have developed a method to replace traditional steel flooring with 3D-printed alternatives, promising significant weight reduction and cost savings. This innovation could revolutionize the construction industry by making buildings lighter and more sustainable.
Polyplastics invests in NematX for innovative polymer 3D printed parts
Polyplastics has invested in NematX, a spin-off from ETH Zurich, to advance 3D printing of high-performance polymer components. The collaboration aims to develop innovative materials and processes using the NEX 01 high-precision material extrusion platform, enhancing the precision, strength, and sustainability of 3D printed parts for industrial applications.
Airtech Advances Sustainable Aerospace Manufacturing with 3D Printing
Airtech has introduced new 3D printing methods to enhance sustainability and efficiency in aerospace manufacturing. These advancements support the industry’s shift towards greener practices and more efficient production processes.
3D Printing in Radiology Saves Time and Costs
A study reveals that using 3D printing in radiology can save up to 41 minutes and $2,500 per case. This technology improves efficiency in healthcare by enabling more accurate planning and execution of complex medical procedures.
Band-Aid for the heart? New 3D printing method makes this, and much more, possible
Researchers at CU Boulder, in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania, have developed a new 3D printing method that produces strong, elastic materials capable of repairing and replacing human tissues. This innovation could lead to advanced medical applications, including heart patches, cartilage repairs, and needle-free sutures, with potential uses extending beyond healthcare.
First 3D printed ceramic jaw implant successfully placed in patient
Researchers have successfully implanted the first 3D printed ceramic jaw at Kepler University Hospital, using a biocompatible zirconia implant designed to avoid invasive bone grafting. This innovative procedure, part of the EU-funded INKplant project, significantly reduces recovery time and could revolutionize treatment for patients with severe jaw atrophy.
A saltwater-soluble polymer shows promise as a recyclable 3D printing ink
Researchers from California and South Korea have developed a recyclable 3D printing material using the polymer PNIPAM, which solidifies in a saltwater solution and can be reused after dissolving in water. This innovation could lead to more sustainable applications in electronics and bio-delivery systems by combining PNIPAM with other materials like carbon nanotubes for enhanced properties.
3D printed gloves offer Paralympian racer comfort and customization
Paralympic gold medalist Tatyana McFadden has partnered with CRP USA to use 3D printed gloves made from Windform XT 2.0 material, enhancing her wheelchair racing performance with improved comfort, durability, and lightweight design. The custom gloves, designed for optimal fit and resistance to wear, will support McFadden in upcoming competitions, including the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games.
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