3D Printing

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 

Medical device company Ortho Solutions has signed a binding agreement to acquire Meshworks, a specialist in custom orthopedic implants. The acquisition aims to strengthen Ortho Solutions’ position in the foot and ankle medical device market. Image Credit: orthospinenews.com Meshworks, previously part of the Alloyed group, develops patient-specific orthopedic implants using additive manufacturing technology. The company combines expertise from multiple disciplines, including orthopedic design, additive manufacturing, software engineering, and metallurgy, with its team operating from facilities connected to Oxford and Imperial College London. The acquisition brings together Meshworks’ custom 3D printing capabilities with Ortho Solutions’ existing foot and ankle care portfolio. Meshworks has established itself as a leading provider of additively manufactured extremity implants in the UK market, offering a streamlined design process for surgeons. Ortho Solutions CEO and Co-Founder Eliot Clare commented on the acquisition: “We are delighted with the opportunity to integrate Meshworks into the Ortho Solutions Group of…    read more 

Design studio Mickus Projects has introduced a new 3D-printed chandelier made entirely from sustainable bioplastic materials. The Hedron Pendant features a honeycomb-shaped lampshade produced using polylactic acid derived from corn and sugar sources, containing no petroleum-based components. The design draws inspiration from Danish midcentury designer Poul Henningsen’s work with glare-free lighting. Image Credit: Mickus Projects The pendant’s distinctive hexagonal pattern wraps around a central stem housing an LED light source. Its structure consists of tapered cell walls specifically angled to create a double-bounce effect from the internal LED, resulting in soft, diffused illumination. The manufacturing process generates zero waste, as the 3D printing method requires no cutting or adhesives. Image Credit: Mickus Projects Ben Mickus, the studio’s founder and trained architect, developed the design following his time in Copenhagen studying Danish modern design. The natural world also influenced the chandelier’s form, incorporating elements reminiscent of honeycomb structures, turtle shells, and…    read more