Hybrid 3D printing is necessary for manufacturing parts composed of very different materials and components. This is only possible using multiple 3D printing processes and multiple materials at the same time. Hybrid 3D printing hardware is already capable of producing such parts, but there is a profound lack of software, algorithms, processes, standards, and best practices to make this happen. The EMLab has been a pioneer and leader in hybrid 3D printing, developing and demonstrating many of the first software tools and demonstrations of automated hybrid 3D printing.
Direct-Write Hybrid 3D Printing
The EMLab has automated direct-write hybrid 3D printing to create the only known capability in the world to manufacture three-dimensional parts with an arbitrary distribution of metals and dielectrics. This research includes software, materials, and 3D printing processes. The capability is being used to manufacture 3D circuits, conformal circuits, 3D antennas, metamaterials, metasurfaces, frequency selective surfaces, and more.
Learning resources for Hybrid 3D Printing
- Automated Hybrid 3D Printing of 3D Meandering Interconnects
- High-Frequency Filters Manufactured Using Hybrid 3D Printing Method
- 3D Printed Structures by Micro Dispensing Materials Loaded with Dielectric and Magnetic Powders
Advanced Slicer for Modern Digital Manufacturing
Dr. Rumpf is a founder of Kraetonics LLC, which has written a modern slicer from the ground up. The slicer is capable of off-axis printing, conformal printing, hybrid 3D printing, 3D printing of functionally graded materials, and other advanced processes in digital manufacturing. Additionally, the slicer is highly customizable to address new and novel applications. Kraetonics LLC is available for consulting, developing customized slicer functions, and contract research and development in the areas of 3D printing, electromagnetics, and photonics.
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