3D Printing

Swiss manufacturing automation firm SAEKI has secured $6.7 million in new funding, bringing its total funding to $8 million. The investment round was led by Lightbird, with participation from Founderful, 2100VC, Danobat, and several business angels. The company combines large-scale additive manufacturing with CNC machining in an integrated production system. This hybrid approach allows SAEKI to produce industrial components in significantly shorter timeframes compared to traditional manufacturing methods. According to the company, its automated quality assurance system helps maintain compliance with industry standards. Image Credit: SAEKI SAEKI has introduced a new digital quoting platform that enables customers to receive immediate pricing for engineered parts after uploading their designs. The system has reduced the procurement process from several days to minutes. A case study with an automotive manufacturer showed that SAEKI’s 3D-printed composite tooling reduced production time from six weeks to one week. “This isn’t just about making parts; it’s about…    read more 

Hong Kong Eastern Hospital has developed new 3D printed models of newborn babies’ lungs to help doctors practice treating pneumothorax, a potentially dangerous condition where air builds up in the pleural cavity. The condition can cause lung collapse and affect breathing and heart function, requiring prompt medical intervention. The hospital’s research team combined artificial intelligence with real patient data, including CT scans, to create the models. To achieve realistic tissue properties, the team incorporated biological data from pig and chicken tissues in their development process. Researchers like Dr Victor Chan, right, are looking at creating more models to help surgeons practise different procedures. (Image Credit: RTHK) The models address a specific challenge in medical training: the relative rarity of pneumothorax cases in newborns makes it difficult for doctors to gain hands-on experience. These 3D printed simulations provide a practical solution for medical staff to practice the delicate procedure before performing…    read more 

The US Air Force is completing its evaluation of 3D-printed microvanes designed to reduce drag on C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. These small blade-like components, measuring 4 x 16 inches, are installed at the rear of the aircraft’s fuselage using adhesive. The modification aims to decrease drag by one percent and improve fuel efficiency. Testing of the microvanes concluded in October 2023, with trials including assault strip and air refueling operations. The first C-17 equipped with these devices is currently stationed at Stewart Air National Guard Base in New York, where it has been operating successfully for over a year, including deployment missions. Microvanes installed on a C-17 Globemaster III at Stewart Air National Guard Base. (Image Credit: US Air Force) The Air Force projects significant cost benefits from this modification, with an estimated return on investment within seven months and annual fuel savings exceeding $14 million. “Every gallon of…    read more 

Specifications Before we get into the main review, let’s take a look at the specs of the Einstar VEGA. The VEGA features two different types of scanning technologies in one unit. These are VCSEL (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser – for long range scanning in any environment) and MEMS (for short range scanning of highly detailed objects). As the name suggests, it is wireless, meaning it can wirelessly scan, transfer data (to the cloud), and even project onto a second screen (a smart TV is needed), all over your WiFi network. In terms of physical hardware, it is a lightweight unit, weighing in at 535g, with a comfortable and ergonomic shape, made even more ergonomic by its detachable silicone grip. All of the operations are done with its 6.4 Inch 2K AMOLED touchscreen display and its intuitive, clutter-free GUI. Such operations include scanning controls, one-touch editing, and even clipping data (more on…    read more 

As an additive manufacturing company owner or manager, you would have a vested interest in minimizing downtime on the factory floor. Machine downtime costs money, because your machines are your breadwinners. If the machines stop, for whatever reason, then it’s no more bread. It’s a simple equation. Luckily, downtime in 3D printing businesses can be reduced, thanks to a combination of monitoring, tracking, and other management tools. Causes of Downtime in the Factory There are two significant causes of downtime in additive manufacturing facilities, which are process-related, and security related. In the case of additive manufacturing process-related downtime, a lot of this can be put down to failed prints, particularly when the machine is running unattended overnight. In the case of security-related downtime, security breaches can involve the theft or destruction of equipment, and in rare cases, even industrial espionage. Thankfully, both of these issues can be addressed with a…    read more