Not sure if 3D printing on fabrics is the right direction for Stratasys?
Not sure if 3D printing on fabrics is the right direction for Stratasys?
The Atomic Layers: S3E02 (00058)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
For several years, Stratasys has been trying to sell the fashion and automotive interior industries on its 3D printing technology for fabrics. They’ve named it "3DFashion," basing it on their full-color PolyJet technology and J850 3D printers. The company has collaborated with several designers who have showcased the results of these partnerships at major fashion shows around the world, as well as leading car manufacturers who used 3D printing for decorative custom car upholstery.
Now Stratasys has taken a step further, announcing the launch of the “TechStyle™ Fabric Alignment Station, the next milestone in the evolution of Stratasys 3DFashion™ technology.” In other words, it’s an add-on for a 3D printer where fabric can be stretched and aligned for printing. It looks like this:
It’s an interesting concept, but is it really important enough to warrant a separate press release? Because, to be honest, 3D printing on fabrics is a fairly average innovation…
If you step outside the AM bubble for a moment and look at alternative technological solutions, you’ll find plenty. Full-color UV printing (2D, 2.5D, or 3D) on unusual substrates like fabric, wood, stone, metal, etc., has been around for good 10 years. Companies like Canon and several lesser-known non-3D printer manufacturers have developed this.
Stratasys is trying to enter a market where it doesn’t really fit. The company continues trying to become something other than what it is and what the world expects it to be. Stratasys and Objet come from the manufacturing industry, excelling in fields like medicine and jewelry. The fashion or car interior design industries are rather abstract directions…
Atomic Layer from the Past:
10-02-2015: ONO (formerly OLO) made its debut as the world's first photopolymer 3D printer creating objects using a smartphone.
Atomic News & Gossips:
The Times They Are A-Changin' So Much! MatterHackers, one of the longest-running 3D printer suppliers in the US, which built its reputation on amateur RepRap devices, entered a US distribution partnership with... Meltio!
Arburg, a pioneer in industrial 3D printing with pellets, announced the launch of its new 3D printer – the Freeformer 550-3X.
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