Background
Ricoh 3D and Impossible Objects have been working in partnership since 2021, providing an exclusive distribution of parts printed with a unique Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing (CBAM) technology.
The duo has also more recently expanded their collaborations to co-create with RICOH’s global Research & Development (R&D) team, at the Additive Manufacturing (AM) Development Center, part of RICOH Futures Business Unit.
This collaboration is enabling further exciting transformations and evolutions of the technology, associated printing systems, and overall capabilities of applications manufactured using CBAM.
CBAM for Drones
One critical application, spanning a range of industries, is drones!
In this ever-evolving industry landscape, the demand for lighter, stronger, and more customisable components has become paramount.
As drones continue to play a pivotal role in various industries, from surveillance and search and rescue to delivery services and consumer use, manufacturers are constantly seeking innovative methods to enhance their efficiency and performance – as well as organisations seeking to become more sustainable in their operations.
Enter Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing, a groundbreaking technology revolutionising the world of AM.
CBAM represents a fusion of two transformative manufacturing processes: additive manufacturing (AM) and composite materials. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that rely on subtractive processes, CBAM builds objects layer by layer, enabling the creation of complex geometries with unparalleled precision.
This additive approach minimises material waste and allows for the production of lightweight yet robust components – qualities that are highly desirable in drone design.
Primary Benefits
One of the primary advantages of CBAM for drone manufacturing lies in its ability to fabricate parts from composite materials. Composite materials, such as carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP), offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, making them ideal for drones and aerospace applications. By harnessing CBAM, manufacturers can leverage the inherent properties of composites to produce drones that are both durable and lightweight – a crucial combination for achieving optimal performance and efficiency.
Moreover, CBAM facilitates part consolidation, wherein multiple components can be integrated into a single, monolithic structure. This consolidation not only streamlines the manufacturing process but also reduces the number of joints and fasteners, thereby enhancing the structural integrity of the drone. With fewer individual parts, the risk of assembly errors and mechanical failures is significantly mitigated, resulting in a more reliable end product.
Customisability is another key advantage offered by CBAM. Through design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) and digital design tools such as nTop software, manufacturers can tailor the properties and characteristics of composite materials to meet specific performance requirements. Whether it’s optimising for aerodynamics, payload capacity, or operational range, CBAM empowers engineers to create drones that are finely tuned to their intended applications.
Furthermore, CBAM facilitates the integration of functional features directly into the manufacturing process. Complex geometries, such as internal channels for wiring or cooling systems, can be seamlessly incorporated into the design, eliminating the need for additional assembly steps. This integration not only reduces assembly time but also enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of the drone.
Conclusion
In summary, Impossible Objects’ CBAM technology represents a paradigm shift in drone manufacturing and aerospace applications. By harnessing the benefits of additive manufacturing and composite materials, CBAM enables the production of drones that are lighter, stronger, and more customisable than ever before…
With its ability to consolidate parts, optimise performance, and streamline assembly processes, CBAM is positively disrupting the now and future of drone technology, unlocking new possibilities for innovation and advancements.
What do the facts and figures say?
Check out this recent use-case from Ricoh 3D and Impossible Objects:
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