Dstl Funds Robotics for 3D Printed Parts
Why this is here: Rivelin Robotics’ NetShape platform combines software, sensors, and controllers to give industrial robots human-like dexterity when finishing 3D printed components.
The UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory supports Rivelin Robotics in Sheffield to refine 3D printed parts. Dstl experts recognize manual finishing as a weakness in additive manufacturing. Rivelin Robotics developed microfactory technology using industrial robots and its NetShape control platform to automate this process.
These robots finish parts faster and with greater accuracy than manual labor allows. They handle metals, polymers, and ceramics, potentially reducing costs for spare parts and lessening reliance on supply chains. Dstl cites naval operations as an area where delays for parts create vulnerabilities.
Rivelin Robotics has sold microfactories to five customers across multiple sectors. The company recently expanded into the defense industry with support from UK Defence and Security Accelerator funding. Further testing involves robots assessing hazardous environments for CBR threats, but challenges remain in scaling the technology for widespread use.
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