Category: 3D printing

  • New Sponge Material Converts Seawater to Drinkable Water

    New Sponge Material Converts Seawater to Drinkable Water

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many people rely on groundwater for drinking, but the process of drilling boreholes is largely unregulated, leading to serious consequences.
    2. Researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University developed a new aerogel that significantly reduces reliance on groundwater and maintains high performance during desalination.
    3. The innovative aerogel features vertical holes of 20 micrometers, made using 3D-printing with carbon nanotubes and cellulose nanofiber.
    4. Testing showed the aerogel can efficiently desalinate seawater at various sizes, demonstrating a scalable and energy-free method for clean water production.
    5. The aerogel system can produce fresh water through sunlight-driven evaporation, with a practical demonstration yielding about three tablespoons of purified water in six hours.


    In our current society, a vast number of people depend on groundwater for their drinking needs. The process of drilling boreholes remains largely unchecked and undocumented, despite the significant consequences these boreholes may have. Utilizing seawater desalination can be an effective way to manage and lessen the repercussions of excessive drilling practices.

    Advancements in Material Science

    Researchers at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University have made an exciting discovery that could reduce human reliance on groundwater. As the size of the material increases, it only experiences a performance reduction of less than 5%, while conventional evaporators face a performance drop exceeding 40%.

    Innovative Aerogel Design

    This new aerogel is designed with vertical holes measuring 20 micrometers, which are evenly distributed across its surface. The researchers created this aerogel by 3D-printing a paste made of carbon nanotubes and cellulose nanofiber layer by layer onto a frozen substrate.

    Testing and Efficiency

    To evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative material, the scientists carried out both indoor and outdoor experiments at different scales. The tests utilized square-shaped aerogel pieces ranging from 1 to 8 centimeters (0.39 to 3.15 inches) in size.

    “Our aerogel enables full-capacity desalination at any size, presenting a straightforward, scalable method for energy-free desalination to generate clean water.” — Xi Shen, Lead Researcher.

    The method is quite straightforward — the carbon-based aerogel floats in a container of seawater. When sunlight hits it, the surface heats up, leading to the separation of water from salt and its subsequent evaporation. The vapor then condenses on the bottom of a transparent cover, collecting as purified drinking water. In a practical outdoor demonstration, the system managed to produce approximately three tablespoons of fresh water over a span of six hours.

    Source:
    Link

  • Anker eufy E1: Pre-Order New 3D UV Printer with $500 Off

    Anker eufy E1: Pre-Order New 3D UV Printer with $500 Off

    Key Takeaways

    1. The eufyMake E1 UV printer launched on Kickstarter, raising nearly $47 million due to a significant discount.
    2. Pre-orders are available at a price of $1,999, offering a $500 discount from the retail price of $2,499, along with limited-time gifts.
    3. A 12-month MIR Plus subscription is included, providing tools for 3D modeling and access to pre-existing models.
    4. The printer can print 3D textures up to 5 mm high on over 300 materials, including glass, metal, and ceramics, using unique ink and UV technology.
    5. The eufyMake E1 UV printer is suitable for various DIY projects and small businesses, with an emphasis on easy setup and operation.


    It’s just been a few months since Anker revealed a new product aimed at DIY enthusiasts: the eufyMake E1 UV printer. In late April, Anker kicked off a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for this item and, thanks to a considerable discount, managed to gather an astonishing nearly $47 million.

    Pre-Order Now Available

    Now, the eufyMake E1 UV printer can be pre-ordered straight from the manufacturer. The price is not as low as it was during the Kickstarter campaign. However, even at the current price, customers can still enjoy significant savings on this relatively pricey printer.

    Instead of the suggested retail price of $2,499, Anker is offering the eufyMake E1 UV printer for $1,999 until July 31, 2025, which is a $500 discount. This offer also comes with “limited-time gifts,” including a bottle of white ink valued at $42.99 and a 12-month MIR Plus (Make it Real) subscription. This subscription is a platform for creating 3D models that provides tools for designing, sharing, and printing. Users can also explore a large collection of pre-existing models from sites like Thingiverse and Printables, making 3D printing more accessible for everyone.

    Additional Savings with Bundles

    Customers can further enhance their savings with various bundles, such as the rotary printing kit or the UV DTF laminator kit. There are also discounts on various accessories when bought separately during the pre-order phase.

    The eufyMake UV Printer E1 is capable of printing 3D textures up to 5 mm high on over 300 different materials, which include glass, metal, leather, stone, ceramics, and paper. This is achieved through the use of unique ink and UV technology.

    Endless DIY Possibilities

    There are countless DIY projects that can be tackled with this printer. It’s not only ideal for small businesses but also for creating unique gifts and much more. Anker assures users that setup and operation are simple. A comprehensive review of the eufyMake UV Printer E1 will be published soon.

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take any responsibility for price changes made by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned here was valid at the time of writing and could be subject to time limits and/or limited stock availability.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • New Artificial Skin: 107x Stronger with Shape Memory Feature

    New Artificial Skin: 107x Stronger with Shape Memory Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Researchers developed a new polyurethane-based material that combines flexibility similar to human skin with high strength and shape memory features.
    2. This innovative material exhibits impressive tensile strength of 1.42 GPa, surpassing that of spider silk, and has a fracture energy significantly greater than human skin.
    3. The material mimics the woven structure of skin, specifically collagen and elastin, enhancing its suitability for medical applications.
    4. It demonstrates a shape fixation rate of nearly 100% and a shape recovery rate of over 94%, making it ideal for complex medical devices.
    5. The material can be 4D printed to create structures that return to their original shape at body temperature, potentially transforming bio-integrated systems.


    For many years, researchers have been trying to create a single material that merges the soft and flexible nature of human skin with remarkable strength and advanced features like shape memory. This innovative material could be utilized to design intricate medical devices that can be inserted into the body through tiny cuts and then expand into their final, useful shape.

    Innovative Material Development

    The team of researchers found a solution by creating a new material based on polyurethane. They arranged various chemical components in a specific way to produce an elastomer that imitates the woven structure found in skin, specifically collagen and elastin. This newly developed material also shows impressive shape memory, achieving a shape fixation rate that’s almost perfect (~100%) and a shape recovery rate of over 94%.

    Stronger Than Spider Silk

    As stated in a publication dated June 13, this new material shows a true tensile strength of 1.42 gigapascals (GPa), which makes it stronger than spider silk, which has a strength of approximately 1.3 GPa. Additionally, it features a fracture energy of 384.7 ± 18.9 kJ/m², which is around 107 times more than human skin’s fracture energy of 3.6 kJ/m². This exceptional strength makes it highly resistant to tears and punctures.

    Exciting Shape Memory Feature

    The most fascinating aspect of PCL-AD-4 is its ability to remember shapes at body temperature. The researchers showed that complex structures made using 4D printing, such as stents or scaffolds for tissue, can be made or compressed into a temporary shape, and then will automatically return to their original, complex form when they are warmed to 37 °C (98.6 °F). With further development, PCL-AD-4 could play a key role in the next wave of bio-integrated systems.

    Source:
    Link

  • 3D Printing Innovatively Used for Bridge Repair at UMass Amherst

    3D Printing Innovatively Used for Bridge Repair at UMass Amherst

    Key Takeaways

    1. There are 623,218 bridges in the U.S.; 49.1% are in fair condition and 6.8% are in poor condition.
    2. The estimated cost to repair these bridges is around $191 billion.
    3. A new 3D printing technique, known as cold spray, is being researched to improve bridge repair processes.
    4. The cold spray 3D printing method was successfully applied to a steel bridge in Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
    5. Affordable 3D printing options, like the Scrib3D P1 pen, allow individuals to explore additive manufacturing.


    According to the 2024 report from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), there are 623,218 bridges in the U.S., with 49.1% (around 305,005) classified as being in fair condition, while 6.8% (approximately 42,379) are deemed poor. The estimated cost to repair these bridges stands at about $191 billion.

    Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

    This recent advancement could tackle one of the major challenges in maintaining infrastructure — logistics. Right now, fixing a corroded section of a bridge often means closing off the area, which can be costly and frustrating for those who need to travel through.

    Innovative Repair Techniques

    This breakthrough was part of a study exploring the viability of 3D printing in the construction and upkeep of highway infrastructure, under a research initiative by MassDOT. Researchers showcased the initial application of cold spray 3D printing to fix a steel bridge located in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. This accomplishment was featured on MIT News on June 20, 2025.

    The process can be described simply:

    The researchers are hopeful about the possibilities this technique offers. They intend to perform additional evaluations on the repaired area after the Great Barrington bridge is taken down during a scheduled replacement. The information collected will be vital in understanding the long-term durability and effectiveness of the cold spray repairs. If the findings are as encouraging as anticipated, this approach could become a regular method for civil engineers, helping to keep bridges safe and operational for many years.

    Affordable 3D Printing Options

    The Scrib3D P1 3D printing pen (currently available for $34.99 on Amazon) offers an economical way for individuals to engage with and explore additive manufacturing.

    Source:
    Link

  • 3D-Printed Robots Walk Off Production Line: A New Era in Tech

    3D-Printed Robots Walk Off Production Line: A New Era in Tech

    Key Takeaways

    1. Robotics encompasses more than just traditional mechanical machines; it includes soft robots made from flexible and organic materials.
    2. Soft robots can be designed with internal fluidics for movement and can start operating immediately after 3D printing.
    3. The University of Edinburgh’s team claims to offer the most cost-effective soft robot production method, using a low-cost Flex printer.
    4. The Flex printer is user-friendly, compact, and designed for open-source production, making it accessible for various users.
    5. The soft robots created through this approach are expected to be versatile and beneficial in industries like healthcare and manufacturing.


    Robotics is seen as a field that holds great promise for the future, though it might not always involve the mechanical walking machines we typically imagine in discussions.

    A Different Approach

    In reality, various research groups within this field propose a different vision: robots constructed entirely from flexible, organic, or even biomimetic materials. These robots are designed with geometric shapes that utilize internal fluidics to drive their movements. This fluidic system can be integrated into the robots during manufacturing, ensuring they move as their creators planned.

    Advancements in Soft Robotics

    Often referred to as “soft robots,” these innovative creations can be produced using 3D printing techniques. Remarkably, they can begin their movements almost immediately after the printing process is completed. The concept of creating soft robots that can move in this way isn’t particularly new, as evidenced by research from teams like Zhai et al., published in Advanced Systems Intelligence in 2023.

    Cost-Effective Solutions

    However, the group led by Maks Gepner from the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering claims that their approach is the most affordable available so far. They utilize the open-source Flex platform for 3D printing, which can necessitate an investment of as low as $500. This Flex printer is also recognized for being the most accessible form of soft robot production, designed to fit on a desk while being user-friendly.

    Gepner, along with his teammates Jonah Mack and Adam A. Stokes, plans to share their robots through an open-source model, creating a Github repository with CAD files available for everyone.

    The soft robots produced by this new method are expected to be adaptable, sturdy, and advantageous across various sectors, including industry and healthcare, positively impacting the world as a whole.

  • AI Model Accurately Identifies Sources of 3D-Printed Parts

    AI Model Accurately Identifies Sources of 3D-Printed Parts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Each industrial 3-D printer produces a unique surface pattern specific to that machine.
    2. A convolutional network can accurately identify the printer that produced a part with 98.5% accuracy.
    3. The model can determine manufacturing process and material with up to 100% accuracy.
    4. Image resolution and crop size influence model accuracy; smaller crops are sufficient for some techniques, while others require larger areas.
    5. This method can enhance supply chain monitoring by verifying machine use and detecting unreported process changes.


    Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that every industrial 3-D printer creates a unique surface pattern that is specific to that machine. By using a convolutional network trained on these patterns, they can accurately identify which printer produced a part.

    Research Overview

    The research team created 9,192 parts using 21 different commercial machines that utilized four types of additive-manufacturing processes: digital light synthesis, multi-jet fusion, stereolithography, and fused-deposition modeling. Each part was scanned at a resolution of 5.3 µm per pixel on a flatbed document scanner, resulting in a comprehensive high-resolution image library for both training and testing the model.

    Model Performance

    Employing an EfficientNet-V2 architecture along with a voting mechanism based on various random image crops, the model achieved an impressive 98.5 percent accuracy in identifying the source printer for previously unseen parts. Additionally, it could determine the manufacturing process and material with up to 100 percent accuracy, and even estimate the position of build trays for digital-light-synthesis parts within about 5 cm (~1.97 in).

    Implications for Industry

    The study explored how the accuracy of the model is influenced by image resolution and crop size. For techniques like digital light synthesis, a crop size of 200 µm was sufficient, while for fused-deposition parts, larger areas (around 3 mm) were necessary, although these could work with lower resolutions. This makes the method suitable for standard cameras and scanners.

    Apart from basic classification, this method serves as a valuable tool for monitoring supply chains. It can verify whether a contractor used the correct machine, detect unreported changes in processes, and assist in tracing defective or counterfeit parts even without embedded labels or the need for supplier cooperation.

    Source:
    Link

  • Bambu Lab H2D: Versatile 3D Printer, Laser Cutter, and Engraver

    Bambu Lab H2D: Versatile 3D Printer, Laser Cutter, and Engraver

    Key Takeaways

    1. 3D printing technology has become accessible to everyday users over the last decade, with affordable options available online.
    2. The Bambu Lab H2D features dual extruders, allowing the use of multiple filaments simultaneously without cleaning in between.
    3. The premium version of the H2D includes advanced laser capabilities and operates within a closed system for improved print quality.
    4. The printer can produce objects with varying dimensions depending on the features used and can engrave and cut materials.
    5. Users can monitor the printing process to prevent misprints and enhance the overall setup.


    Over the past ten years, methods for processing that were once only for experts have become available to everyday users. A variety of 3D printers are now available on Amazon, with some being quite affordable while others offer advanced features like lasers. This is true for the new Bambu Lab H2D, which allows users to create and modify prints in multiple ways. Its price on the manufacturer’s official website is between $1,999 and $2,899.

    Different Models for Different Needs

    These models come with various modules and components tailored for specific needs. The standard H2D is a versatile 3D printer that can work with different materials and filaments at the same time. It features dual extruders, enabling it to operate with two different filaments without the need for cleaning or purging, which can save money.

    Advanced Features in the Premium Version

    The high-end H2D version is packed with noteworthy laser capabilities. This model operates within a closed system, and its print chamber can reach temperatures of up to 65 °C, enhancing print quality and facilitating the use of specific filaments. Depending on the features being utilized, the build volume can vary. When using both print nozzles, the dimensions are 300 x 320 x 325 millimeters. Furthermore, the Bambu Lab H2D can engrave and cut materials with its built-in laser, which offers options of either 10 or 40 watts. The manufacturer states that users have the ability to monitor the 3D printing process, helping to avoid misprints and enhance their setup. Lastly, this printer can produce both flat and curved objects. When the laser is engaged for cutting or engraving, the device generates airflow to cool the item being processed.

    Source:
    Link

  • Kobra 3 V2 Combo: Multicolor 3D Printer with Launch Discount

    Kobra 3 V2 Combo: Multicolor 3D Printer with Launch Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Preorders for the Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo are available, with early orders eligible for a reduced launch price.
    2. The four-color model is priced at $379, the eight-color option at $638, and the standard model at $249.
    3. The printer has a print size of 255 x 255 x 260 mm and can be ready to use in about 15 minutes.
    4. Key features include an HD camera, auto-leveling, and a hotend that heats up to 300 °C, with the ability to resume printing after filament runs out.
    5. Users can control the printer via a smartphone app or touchscreen interface, enhancing usability and print quality.


    Anycubic is now taking preorders for the latest Kobra 3 V2 Combo. Those who act fast can enjoy a special introductory price. The model that supports four colors is available for $379, whereas the one that handles eight colors is priced at $638. For those who prefer a standard experience, the Kobra 3 V2 Combo without multicolor features is set at $249. Customers in the US can expect their orders to ship between mid-June and early July.

    Specifications and Features

    This printer boasts a print volume of 255 x 255 x 260 millimeters, making it a great choice for newcomers. It can be setup in as little as 15 minutes. The built-in HD camera not only records video but is also capable of spotting printing issues, like filament stringing or oozing. The hotend is said to be metal and can be swapped out easily without needing a screwdriver. It can heat the nozzle up to 300 °C and the print bed to 110 °C. Additionally, if the filament runs out during a print, users can resume printing afterwards.

    Print Quality Enhancements

    Features like auto-leveling, automatic extrusion calibration, and integrated vibration compensation should contribute to good print quality. The active drying system for filaments stored in the corresponding boxes is likely to help as well. Users can control the new Kobra 3D printer through either a smartphone app or its built-in touchscreen.

    Source:
    Link


  • Philips Launches Fixables: 3D Printed Replacement Parts Available

    Philips Launches Fixables: 3D Printed Replacement Parts Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips launched ‘Fixables’, a platform for 3D printable components to reduce waste from broken or missing parts of personal health items.
    2. Currently, the platform offers a 1-3mm comb for the Philips OneBlade, with plans for additional parts in the future.
    3. Users can request new parts, but the 3D printed components will not replace original parts.
    4. The initiative first launched in the Czech Republic, in collaboration with Pura Research, and may expand to other countries based on its success.
    5. Philips encourages contributions from repair professionals and 3D printing enthusiasts to enhance the project.


    In an effort to keep its products out of landfills caused by a broken piece or missing accessory, Philips has unveiled ‘Fixables’, a platform that allows owners of its personal health items to download printable files for any broken or missing components and then use a 3D printer to create them.

    A New Resource for Customers

    The goal of Fixables is to create a library of 3D printable components for Philips products. As of now, the Fixables site offers just one part, which is a 1-3mm comb designed for the Philips OneBlade. The page for each part includes essential details like the estimated print time, the material suggested—which is PLA for this part—and the layer height. Additionally, it displays outlines of two future parts: a 7-24mm comb and a 3-15mm comb for a Philips clipper.

    User Input Welcomed

    Philips has mentioned that it will take requests from users for parts that aren’t currently available on the site. Still, it’s important to note that these 3D printed components will not serve as replacements for original parts. Given that many customers have voiced concerns over the high price of original parts and the lengthy waiting times for delivery, it’s likely that a significant number of people will choose to 3D print their parts instead.

    Launching in the Czech Republic

    Philips Fixables has first launched in the Czech Republic, due to its collaboration with Pura Research, a company that specializes in 3D printing technology and is located there. The initiative is in its initial testing stage, and Philips has stated that if it proves successful, it will be rolled out to other nations. Moreover, the company is inviting repair professionals and 3D printing fans to contribute to the project.

    Source:
    Link

  • 90s Cable Nostalgia with Raspberry Pi at FieldStation42

    90s Cable Nostalgia with Raspberry Pi at FieldStation42

    Key Takeaways

    1. Developer Shane Mason created a 3D printable vintage cable box for his 90s cable simulation project, FieldStation42.
    2. The cable box features a tactile number pad and a monochrome display, while housing a Raspberry Pi to run the simulation.
    3. FieldStation42 aims to recreate the nostalgic cable TV experience but requires user involvement for programming.
    4. The new scheduling tool includes time slots, tags, and programmable tips for better content organization.
    5. The quality of the simulation depends on the availability of diverse and responsibly sourced content like channel bumpers and TV shows.


    Inspired by his partners, developer Shane Mason has launched a 3D printable design of a vintage cable box to go along with his 90s cable simulation project, FieldStation42. This cable box showcases all the classic features you’d expect, including a tactile number pad for channel selection and a monochrome numerical display. Even though the exterior appears nostalgic, it actually contains a Raspberry Pi that operates FieldStation42, which cleverly uses programming to bring the essence of cable TV back to life.

    TV Programming Made Simple (or Not)

    While watching TV might be straightforward, users will discover that programming it is a bit more complicated. Thankfully, FieldStation42 offers various tools to help recreate that cherished experience from the past. Some of the features include:

    Enhanced Scheduling Features

    Moreover, the new scheduling tool in FieldStation42 addresses the issue of content organization by employing time slots, tags, and break strategies to create more lifelike schedules along with programmable scheduling tips. Users can also utilize the new text-based user interface to build catalogs and schedules instead of relying on the command line. In the end, though, the simulation’s quality will hinge on the content uploaded to FieldStation42; having plenty of responsibly gathered channel bumpers, commercials, TV shows, and movies will provide the best resources for achieving an authentic channel-flipping experience. Interested channel surfers can check out links below to learn how to set up a FieldStation42 or see it in action.

    Source:
    Link