While 3D printer technology is something to marvel at on its own, Tend.ai is a start-up that created a robot 3D printer to minimize the amount of interference needed from a human during the manufacturing process.
As a fully automated robotic 3D printing system, the robot is able to manage a basic factory line by overseeing multiple 3D printers at once. Once a print has been finished, the bot is able to collect the finished designs so that they can be boxed on a conveyor belt.
People are able to check in or control the robotic system via an iOS or Android app remotely, meaning that no close supervision of the machines is required. A system of this kind has huge implications for the kinds of mass customization that can be done with 3D printing technology at a heightened pace.
Robotic Printing Systems
Tend.ai's Robot 3D Printer is Fully Automated
Trend Themes
1. Automated 3D Printing - Tend.ai's robotic 3D printer showcases the trend of automating the 3D printing process, reducing the need for human intervention.
2. Factory Line Management - The fully automated system by Tend.ai allows for overseeing and managing multiple 3D printers on a factory line, improving efficiency and productivity.
3. Remote Control and Monitoring - The iOS and Android app integration for Tend.ai's robotic printing system enables remote control and monitoring, eliminating the need for constant physical presence.
Industry Implications
1. Manufacturing - The use of robotic printing systems opens up disruptive innovation opportunities for streamlining manufacturing processes and optimizing production efficiency.
2. 3D Printing - The integration of automation into 3D printing with Tend.ai's system paves the way for advancements in mass customization and faster production speeds.
3. Mobile App Development - The development of mobile apps for remote control and monitoring of robotic printing systems presents disruptive innovation opportunities within the mobile app industry.