At CES 2018, Ethereal Machines introduced the world to its 5D printer system and with it, what it calls "the dawn of hybrid manufacturing." While 4D printing introduces objects that have the potential to change their shape with the added dimension of time, this 5D printer features a five-axis system. The 5D printer dubbed 'Halo' is capable of creating with both additive manufacturing and CNC milling.
There have been 5D printers launched before the Halo from Ethereal Machines, but this one sets itself apart as a cost-effective and above all else, portable manufacturing solution. Due to the added dimensions that can be created with the printer, Halo is capable of making structures that may include overhangs and other complex design details.
At the Consumer Electronics Show, Ethereal Machines' Halo 5D Printer won the 'Best of Innovation' Award.
Hybrid 5D Printers
Ethereal Machines' 'Halo' Won an Innovation Award at CES 2018
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Manufacturing - The development of 5D printers like Ethereal Machines' 'Halo' presents disruptive innovation opportunities by combining additive manufacturing and CNC milling in a cost-effective and portable solution.
2. 4D Printing - The introduction of 5D printers with additional dimensions, like Ethereal Machines' 'Halo,' opens up disruptive innovation possibilities by allowing objects to change shape over time.
3. Complex Design Printing - The emergence of 5D printers, such as Ethereal Machines' 'Halo,' offers disruptive innovation potential by enabling the creation of structures with intricate design details and overhangs.
Industry Implications
1. Additive Manufacturing - The field of additive manufacturing can benefit from hybrid 5D printing technology, as demonstrated by Ethereal Machines' 'Halo,' which combines additive manufacturing and CNC milling capabilities.
2. CNC Milling - The CNC milling industry can be disrupted by the integration of hybrid 5D printing, exemplified by Ethereal Machines' 'Halo,' which combines CNC milling with additive manufacturing.
3. Consumer Electronics - The consumer electronics industry has opportunities for disruptive innovation through the implementation of hybrid 5D printing technology, such as Ethereal Machines' 'Halo,' which won the 'Best of Innovation' Award at CES 2018.