Specialists from Tomsk State University (TSU) are developing what is claimed to be the world's first ultrasonic 3D printer.
The principle of operation of the device is that particles are regrouped in a controlled field, and three-dimensional objects can be assembled from them.
In its current form, the device provides levitation of an ordered group of foam particles that can move up and down and right and left. When entering the sound field and in the process of deposition, the particles settle along predetermined trajectories, forming a certain pattern.
The system consists of four gratings that emit acoustic waves. In a stream of waves in the frequency range of 40 kHz, the particles are in a suspended state. For management, special software developed by TSU specialists is used.
“In addition to ultrasonic 3D printing, this method can be used when working with chemically aggressive solutions, such as acids or substances heated to high temperatures,” the university said in a publication.
Russian scientists intend to develop ultrasonic 3D printing technology and assemble a working printer prototype by 2020. It is expected that the device will be able to work with particles of ABS plastic.
Source: 3dnews.ru