Open source technology makes 3D printing possible in seconds

For years, we have continuously reported on volumetric 3D printing. Unlike most methods that create objects layer by layer, volumetric 3D printing allows an object to be manufactured in a single step.

Several research institutions, as well as companies, are looking into this method. So is a research group at the University of California Berkeley. The team is developing and researching volumetric 3D printing as part of the OpenCAL project. They call the method “Computed Axial Lithography” and make their technology available under open licenses.

Taylor Waddell, a PhD student on the team, provided insights into the technology in a recent interview. He explained that the process is based on three main components: the material, the rotation and the projector. The material used is photosensitive and must have a certain viscosity to serve as a support structure. The rotation and the projector are responsible for the imaging. An interesting aspect of this technology is its similarity to tomographic imaging used in medical CT scans. Waddell describes the process as “CT scanning in reverse.”

Computed Axial Lithography can thus be used to 3D print in a matter of seconds. While Waddell presented only smaller objects in the interview, he emphasized that scaling up to several meters is entirely feasible. Although production time for larger objects is increasing, it remains significantly shorter compared to conventional 3D printing methods, at less than 3 minutes.

The UC Berkeley team is also investigating zero-gravity applications, as materials with even lower viscosity can then be used. Tests of the technology on the International Space Station are planned over the next two years.