Aerospace

Non-planar 3D printing, also known as curved layer 3D printing or non-planar slicing, marks a significant evolution in the field of additive manufacturing.

Conventionally, laminate designs have adhered to standard ply orientations such as 0, 90, and ±45°, often constrained by symmetry requirements. However, a paradigm shift has emerged with the introduction of the double-double laminates concept, offering a more efficient and tailored approach to composite design.

Four-dimensional (4D) printing, an extension of 3D printing, incorporates the dimension of time into the fabrication process, enabling the creation of structures that can change shape in response to external stimuli.

Plastics have evolved beyond their ubiquitous presence in everyday products to become intelligent. The fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is launching the era of “smart plastics.” These materials aim to revolutionize the functionality and efficiency of plastics in healthcare, automotive, and consumer products.

New resins lacking thermal measurements may face challenges in meeting regulatory standards and entering the market. However, the use of AI can streamline the introduction of these resins by potentially halving the time needed for testing and regulatory approvals.

4D printing is an evolution in the manufacturing process that incorporates the dimension of time into 3D printing.

More manufacturers are turning to additive manufacturing to ensure consistent outcomes. But many may not fully grasp how or why they should incorporate it into their processes. If you’re continuously hitting roadblocks, production is slow, or you’re stuck with outdated technologies, additive manufacturing offers solutions. Utilizing it can help your processes by producing complex parts, reducing material waste, customizing products, boosting supply chain efficiencies, and enabling low-volume production.

Sustainability has become an indispensable fifth dimension in design, essential from the very start of the process. Moreover, it stands unique in each project like a snowflake, highlighting its custom and distinct approach.

The need to lower the steep costs of traditional manufacturing, involving expensive tooling and molds, makes advancing composite manufacturing a key research focus.

In the quest for sustainability, proper waste management is a main challenge, particularly when it comes to plastics. The Recyclopedia initiative teaches proper sorting and disposal of plastics and other items.