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USPS honors folk singer Pete Seeger https://ift.tt/lIjuie8 NEWPORT, RI — Famed folk singer Pete Seeger was honored today as he was inducted into the Postal Service’s Music Icons Forever stamp series at the Jane Pickens Theater. Printing via USPS News https://ift.tt/o4fvCJA July 21, 2022 at 07:21PM
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3D Printed Antennas Enable Satellite Constellations for Fleet Space https://ift.tt/nUZ3AB9 3D printing is finding increasing applications in the space sector, particularly when it comes to producing rocket engines and satellite parts. Meanwhile, the technology is also making its way into the construction of antennas, both for on-world and off-world use. Demonstrating the possibilities in this promising niche is 3D Systems (NYSE: DDD), which announced a partnership with Australia’s Fleet Space Technologies that led to the 3D printing of radio frequency (RF) patch antennas for its Alpha satellite constellation. To do so, Fleet Space worked with 3D Systems’ Application Innovation Group (AIG), which has been involved in such innovative use cases as 3D printed semiconductor equipment and turbomachinery. With Fleet Space, the AIG team was able to develop a complete additive manufacturing (AM) solution for its RF patch design, including process development and bridge production on its DMP Flex 350 metal 3D printer. In turn, Fleet Space was able to move to small batch production of its RF antennas in just three weeks. 3D Printing Satellite Antennas in Just Three WeeksFleet Space became aware that AM would be essential to the production of its patch antennas due to the fact that they were designed to meet the size, weight, and performance of the firm’s Alpha satellites, all while limiting the need for post-processing. One major accomplishment from the design is obtaining ten times more throughput per kilo of spacecraft capacity for satellite communications. The AIG team developed print processes to 3D print the antenna using two different materials: LaserForm AlSi10Mg and Al6061-RAM2. 3D Systems suggests that the unique vacuum chamber of the DMP Flex 350 was critical for the project. This is because the low oxygen environment (<25 ppm) results in a good surface finish and fine feature detail necessary for minimizing signal losses. An added benefit was the reduction in argon gas consumed. With 3DXpert software able to efficiently transition from 3D model to printed part, the partners were able to 3D print 55 RF patch antennas per build on the DMP Flex 350 system. In-house Metal 3D PrintingTo execute in-house production, Fleet Space has acquired its own DMP Flex 350 for use at its headquarters in Beverly, Adelaide. There, the Aussie company will use the laser powder bed fusion (PBF) system to 3D print its RF patch antennas for its 140 Alpha satellite constellation, currently in development. Using ambient noise tomography powered by its constellation of satellites, the company suggests it can look for natural resources with minimal ecological destruction.
Powering the Industrial Internet of Things55 antennas per build for a constellation of 140 satellites is a remarkable breakthrough for a technology previously thought capable of only one-off parts and prototyping. It is exactly in these niche applications, where costs would be high otherwise and components geometrically complex, that AM is first breaking through into production. Whereas Arcam was able to apply its technology for the serial manufacturing of hip implants, stacking parts into a single build, we’re now seeing similar strategies applied in increasing sectors. The private space industry, in particular, has proven lucrative. According to the “3D Printing in Commercial Space: The AM Ecosystem in the Private Space Industry” report from SmarTech Analysis, the overall value of 3D printed parts for private space is projected to reach $2.1 billion in 2026 and $5.4 billion by 2031. The post 3D Printed Antennas Enable Satellite Constellations for Fleet Space appeared first on 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing. Printing via 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing https://ift.tt/qDcJezA July 21, 2022 at 04:13PM 2.5 Days On Average to Deliver Mail or Packages Across the Nation https://ift.tt/x5frTjc WASHINGTON — The United States Postal Service reported new delivery performance metrics for the first two weeks of the fiscal fourth quarter. For the first two weeks of FY2022 Q4, the average time for the Postal Service to deliver a mailpiece or package across the nation was 2.5 days. Printing via USPS News https://ift.tt/o4fvCJA July 21, 2022 at 01:24PM Postal Service modernization enables expanded electric vehicle opportunity https://ift.tt/Osn7bwq WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service today announced it anticipates adjusting the purchase interval and composition of its delivery fleet. Printing via USPS News https://ift.tt/o4fvCJA July 21, 2022 at 01:24PM
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Open Source 3D Printed Surgical Table Cuts Costs by 98 Percent https://ift.tt/mAWUMn7 We hear a lot about 3D printed medical devices like models, implants, prosthetics, surgical tools, and even medical device packaging, but how about a 3D printed surgical fracture table? Researchers from Western University and Michigan Technological University collaborated on a project to develop the table, which was created for far less money than it would usually cost to build one. The team summarized their findings in a study, which explains how the accessible open source table was built using common hand tools and materials, and a desktop 3D printer. A surgical fracture table is used to help position a patient during procedures, so additional healthcare workers aren’t needed to hold them in the proper position the whole time. It’s a helpful tool, but a costly one: it’s estimated that the capital cost of a conventional surgical fracture table is upwards of $250,000. This 3D printed table cost less than $4,000 to make, which saves more than 98% in comparison to a commercially available version.
According to Western, the team’s work on this open source table could be very impactful in developing countries, where universal access to healthcare is low due to many reasons, including the high cost of medical equipment. Additionally, nine priorities laid out by the World Bank for cost-effective surgeries that should be globally available are orthopedic procedures, such as trauma-related amputations, treating fractures, repairing clubfoot deformities, escharotomy/fasciotomy, draining septic arthritis, and more. In addition to many orthopedic procedures, this open source table can also be used by surgeons to complete general surgical procedures, gynecological ones, and for childbirth.
Because the low-cost table is open source—meaning its design is freely available—it can be improved upon for different surgical procedures, and potentially built at an even lower cost, which would be very helpful for hospitals that may not be able to afford this kind of table otherwise. Surgeons and other healthcare workers could make the design of this table even more functional by designing their own modifications, or bringing their idea for a modification to a designer or engineer who can help make it a reality. According to Pearce, everyone can have access to superior medical equipment this way.
The modular table in its current form features several components 3D printed out of PETG and TPU on a desktop FFF 3D printer—specifically the LulzBot Taz 6—while other parts were manufactured from high density polyethylene (HDPE) sheets. It’s mechanically adjustable, so electricity is not required, and the table also has a weight capacity of over 130 kg (286 lbs), geometric flexibility for multiple common surgeries, and is radiolucent in surgical zones, meaning it’s permeable to X-rays.
According to Pearce, we’re at the beginning of “a decentralized manufacturing revolution,” where designs can be digitally shared and replicated using technologies like 3D printing.
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AM Ventures Raises €100M for New 3D Printing Startups https://ift.tt/ntCQ2is AM Ventures has had a long string of investments in 3D printing, giving money to 17 additive manufacturing (AM) firms, including Dye Mansion, Conflux, LightForce Orthodontics, Additive Drives, Lithoz, Cubicure, Sintratec, Incus, Exmet, Elementum, Spectroplast, Headmade Materialis, and Metshape. The 3D printing-focused venture capital fund seems to have made some very smart investments. Now, AM Ventures has raised an additional $100 million to pour into the sector. The company has seen investment from family offices, founders and asset managers.
AM Ventures as a 3D Printing BoonAM Ventures is a boon for our industry. By judging them on their performance and progress, institutional and private investors can be exposed to and get excited about 3D printing. If AM Ventures does well, then we will do well as a whole industry because, aside from payouts to staff, these investors are going to plough money back in and raise more when their startups do well. In that way, they can be an engine for our industry and help accelerate our growth. It’s difficult to judge the firm’s success in capital allocation thus far. If you would have given me a pot of money, I would have loved to spend it on Conflux, Spectroplast, Additive Drives, Exmet, Dye Mansion and Headmade. I love Spectroplast‘s technology team and go-to-market. I appreciate Conflux as a company and its technology, as well. Additive Drives could power a number of cars if it can industrialize the 3D printing of electric motor parts. Dye Mansion may be an integral part of everyone firm’s powder workflow. Exmet could use its bulk metallic glass materials to make very long-lasting parts with a great deal of IP protection, while Headmade may be a new path to low-cost metal components. In that way, it seems as though AM Ventures is enthusiastic about the startups that can both accelerate 3D printing while growing to become very large businesses. Only time will tell how successful the fund is. A Financial Life Raft for 3D PrintingIn a few short months, the sector has gone from cash sloshing around aplenty to a money drought. This means that the capital raise by AM Ventures is now more important than it was a half a year ago. Amid a dearth of money, the company could supply crucial funding to a group of companies worldwide at an important stage of growth. Money is now more precious and dear to obtain, but also less valuable, so this makes for a rather delicate time to be running a VC fund. Future money is more circumspect still, with less enthusiasm and lower returns expected on future cash. However, if AM Ventures continues to delve down deep into 3D printing and perform the ultimate smart money play, then the firm’s fortunes will rise along with the industry’s. I hope that we will in the future see more strategic investment and more players similar to AM Ventures. Dumb money has really gotten us somewhere, but perhaps not laid the groundwork for a sustainable AM future for everyone. The post AM Ventures Raises €100M for New 3D Printing Startups appeared first on 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing. Printing via 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing https://3dprint.com July 21, 2022 at 09:12AM
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3D Printing News Briefs, July 21, 2022: Layoffs, Heat Exchangers, & More https://ift.tt/N0uUxvw In today’s 3D Printing News Briefs, starting with business, manufacturing company Fast Radius recently cut 20% of its workforce. Then, Xometry has introduced new digital sourcing tools and more. A Formula Student racing team is using Eplus3D’s metal powder bed fusion system to improve the performance of its electric race car. Finally, Smart-Ship used Hubs’ quote builder to speed up product development. Fast Radius Cuts 20% of WorkforceCloud manufacturing and digital supply chain company Fast Radius (FSRD) joined several other 3D printing companies in going public via a SPAC deal last year. The goal was growth, and last month the company appointed Patrick McCusker as President and Interim Chief Financial Officer and John Nanry as Chief Operating Officer, so things seemed like they were rolling right along. But then we started seeing LinkedIn posts from Fast Radius employees announcing that they had been laid off due to a cost-cutting initiative, and found that the Board of Directors had approved restructuring actions—including cutting 20% of its workforce—in order to reduce the company’s operating expenses. The restructuring actions, which are expected to be mostly completed by the end of Q3 2022, are meant to help the company execute its strategy, which is focused on four main priorities: enhancing its software tools, user experience, and digital workflows; increasing customer acquisition efforts; building out and optimizing its marketplace and supplier network; and securing additional capital. While the cuts did include getting rid of open positions, approximately 40 people were ultimately laid off from the Fast Radius workforce. The company is also taking other operational expense management actions, such as consolidating its facilities, in an effort to save over $10 million. Xometry Unveils New Digital Sourcing Tools, MES Supplier SystemIn an effort to bring buyers and suppliers even closer together, global online marketplace Xometry introduced new digital sourcing tools for enterprise buyers on Thomasnet.com, in addition to a new cloud-based manufacturing execution system (MES) for suppliers that will be open to third-party developers for building integrated applications. The Xometry Instant Quoting Engine, Job Board, and financial services features from the Xometry Marketplace have now been integrated into Thomasnet, which will enable Xometry to more quickly scale its network of active suppliers and buyers. Its new Industrial Buying Engine digitizes and condenses the old, lengthy request-for-quote process, while the new cloud-based Workcenter system makes it easy for suppliers to manage their Xometry and non-Xometry work in a centralized project management and payment solution. The API-enabled Workcenter will also be opened up to third-party developers.
Eplus3D Supports Formula Student Racing TeamThe Formula Student Racing Team E.Stall of the Esslingen University of Applied Sciences is designing and building an electric race car to compete in the Formula Student competition, and is improving the car’s performance with 3D printing support from Chinese 3D printer manufacturer Eplus3D. The global competition is won by the team not only with the fastest car, but also with the best overall package of design, construction, performance, financial planning, and sales presentation. The E.Stall team looked at previous seasons and decided to improve the cooling system of their current car by making it more reliable; their previous polymer cooling jacket, which is meant to regulate drivetrain temperature and prevent the motor from overheating, was prone to leakage. Eplus3D’s EP-M260 Dual-Laser powder bed fusion system was used to print a cooling jacket, cooling plating for the inverters, and a steering component out of aluminum, which can easily dissipate generated heat to improve the race car’s performance. Eplus3D’s accurate 3D printing allowed the team to create complex structures and reduce the wall thickness of the components, which also helped reduce their size and weight. Additionally, 3D printing enabled functional integration of cooling system, connectors, and mounting, which adds up to what Eplus3D calls a “failsafe design” that won’t leak. Both of the 3D printed heat exchanger parts were able to keep the motors and inverters below 65°C, which the team said is a great result, and the components can also operate more efficiently because of their low temperature. E.Stall won 4th place in Formula Student Engineering Design Competitions in the Alpe Adria region and the Czech Republic, and won first place in the Efficiency Category of an Endurance Event in Croatia—a major milestone for the team. Hubs & Smart-Ship Developing Haptic Navigation SystemsHubs recently published a case study about a project it completed with Dutch maritime tech startup Smart-Ship to develop haptic navigation systems and advanced training simulators for maritime vessels. Operators on these ships have a ton of information to process, usually through visual and audio input, but Smart-Ship uses haptic (tactile) feedback in levers and consoles to send signals, which makes operations safer and more efficient at high speeds and in choppy waters. The idea was born as an academic concept and transformed into a functional prototype, with Hubs serving as a partner for all of it. The original plan was to install haptic consoles and levers directly onto marine vessels, but there are a lot of regulations involved, so while the team waited for the necessary certifications, it decided to first integrate its hardware and software into maritime training simulators. The parts for the levers and simulator have to be very precise in order to give proper haptic feedback, and Hubs was able to help with this using its rapid prototyping portfolio, including 3D printing and CNC machining. FDM technology and PLA were used, but the parts that convey sensory information were made with SLS 3D printing, to ensure high tolerance and robustness. Smart-Ship used Hubs’ quote builder to efficiently iterate designs for the optimal price throughout, and earlier this year was able to successfully test its products with operators on Royal IHC’s dredging simulator; the company also installed one of its throttle levers on an inland ship for its integral locking assistance system. Having reached these milestones, Smart-Ship is now testing other levers and getting ready to sell them to shipping companies, as well as producing integrated training modules, in order to give the maritime industry a robust, safe solution. The company is still working with Hubs as it prepares to scale up its production.
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Cabaret Typographie https://ift.tt/lwLQHtC Cabaret Typographie is a collective founded by three Italian graphic designers and printers; Laura Dal Maso, Mauro De Toffol, and Tommaso Pucci. The trio are based between Milan and Paris, and have a permanent residence at Bonvini 1909, a vintage stationery shop. They started printing together twelve years ago, but have known each other since their college years where they studied Visual Communication at IUAV University of Venice. After graduating they started their journey in exploring letterpress; at first for fun, and then looking for their own visual language. The trio are very fascinated by the graphic design of the historical avant-gardes, such as Dadaism, Futurism, and all the typographical research of the first half of the 20th century. Even their name is a tribute to the Cabaret Voltaire, a place where the exponents of Dadaism met each other in Zurich. “We have always been passionate about typography and type design, so the discovery of letterpress had been very important to us,” say the group. Cabaret Typogrpahie started printing with wooden type bought from old printers and people they knew who also had a passion for letterpress. The collective first printed in a former concierge in Milan, then met Bonvini 1909. In the stationery shop they have their own space, the Atelier 1909, where they share their typefaces and their printing press machines. The studio is currently home to 3 proof press machines and a collection of wood and lead typefaces that contain about one hundred families. After years of printing with wooden characters the trio decided to experiment with designing their own letters. They tell us; “We started carving them on linoleum, but it was a very long and laborious process. Later we discovered that we could laser carve letters on mdf, combining a digital system with a work that has always been analogue.” Their work process has now developed to starting with digital. They design their graphics in Adobe Illustrator, then send the file to a cutting service. When all the pieces have been received, they print by fixing the letters on the proof press machine and printing by hand. “The laser cut process allowed us to focus more on the design of the letters and the expressiveness of our posters. We would like to continue on this path, as graphic designers we believe letterpress is a great tool of expression that graphic design has available.” www.cabarettypographie.com
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US DoE Awards $3M to Fortify and polySpectra for 3D Printed Tooling https://ift.tt/TzyamIo The US Department of Energy (DOE) announced 30 projects that have been selected to receive a total of $57.9 million in grants from the Advanced Manufacturing Office (AMO). Among the recipients were Fortify and polySpectra: the two additive manufacturing (AM) firms received $3 million, for a joint project to develop tooling used for the automotive sector. Several other entities — National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), MPI Systems, RePliForm Inc., and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) — are involved in the project as well, and thus will also benefit from the funding. Specifically, the money goes toward the development of solutions for lightweighting automotive tooling, using Cyclic Olefin Resin-based composites. Cyclic Olefin Resin (COR) is polySpectra’s proprietary, printable version of cycloolefin copolymer (COC). Compared to other polymers, COC has come into widespread use fairly recently. Its increasing popularity in commercial applications over the last couple of decades is thanks to its translucence and durability, making it optimal for use in the production of anything with a screen. Along with polySpectra’s COR, the participating companies will be using Fortify’s unique magnet-driven, DLP series of printers, FLUX. Additionally, the grant money will be used to help bring more individuals from underrepresented groups into the industry, by way of training and recruitment programs. This is at least the second AM project in the last couple of weeks to mention this same objective. Although the initial R&D will focus on automotive parts, it is of course likely that, should the effort succeed, COR will start to be used in more applications. This is especially likely, considering the steadily growing interest in AM applications for electronics. As part of a larger AM carbon strategy, the potential to print screens close to the point of sale could be a huge asset in lowering the emissions created by the global production of consumer goods. Finally, it’s worth emphasizing the amount of money pouring into the AM sector lately from the DOE, in particular. To be sure, the US government has long been one of the principal funders of AM. Nevertheless, there’s something at least symbolically momentous, about the fact that the energy-use considerations are overtly starting to factor into more and more projects. The post US DoE Awards $3M to Fortify and polySpectra for 3D Printed Tooling appeared first on 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing. Printing via 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing https://3dprint.com July 20, 2022 at 09:04AM Call for Speakers – Additive Manufacturing Strategies 2023 https://ift.tt/Ihsg4nJ We are currently looking for speakers for each of our nine tracks for the sixth ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING STRATEGIES (AMS) conference and exhibition, taking place February 7-9, 2023: https://additivemanufacturingstrategies.com. We are seeking both panelists and individual talks. The entry deadline is August 15, 2022 AMS is the leading event in the Northeast where stakeholders come to New York City to learn about emerging business developments and new technologies in AM. The event is also a great place to network and conduct business deals. We are particularly interested in talks from established technologists and senior industry executives in the areas of (1) new materials, (2) AM software, and (3) AM in the automotive, aerospace, or marine sectors. We especially welcome end user firms in all these sectors. Please submit your suggested presentation by email to Lawrence Gasman at lawrence@smartechpublishing.com In addition to your abstract/proposal, please provide the following information: · a. Name · b. Email address · c. Telephone number · d. Affiliation (speakers receive a full registration [in-person/online; no expenses are provided]) The post Call for Speakers – Additive Manufacturing Strategies 2023 appeared first on 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing. Printing via 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing https://3dprint.com July 20, 2022 at 09:04AM |
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